Kritische Erfolgsfaktoren bei der Einführung von Warehouse Management Systemen in KMU

Abstract

This master's thesis deals with the critical success factors for the introduction of warehouse management systems (WMS) in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs are under great pressure to digitalise their warehouse processes in the face of increasing demands for efficiency, transparency and flexibility. WMS offer great potential to control warehouse processes more efficiently, manage stock transparently and reduce sources of error. At the same time, the introduction of such systems poses particular challenges for SMEs, as they often have limited financial, human and technological resources as well as a lack of IT expertise. The aim of this work is to derive practical recommendations for action that support SMEs in the successful introduction of a WMS. To this end, 41 success factors were first identified on the basis of the specialist literature and divided into four categories: technological, organisational, human and change management factors. In addition, 13 expert interviews were conducted with WMS experts in order to compare the theoretical findings with practical experience. In addition, a case study was analysed at the mechanical engineering company Laska, which is itself about to introduce a WMS. The evaluation shows that early involvement of employees, comprehensive training, a clearly structured project approach, realistic objectives and an open dialogue with employees are the key to success.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	German (Austria)
Supervisor	Oliver Schauer (Supervisor)