Digitalisation has reformed and optimised processes in many areas. In intralogistics, however, digitalisation measures are being implemented only hesitantly. There is a large discrepancy between the processes that are actually digitalised and those that could be digitalised. The main reason for this is the high cost of the initial investment. The consideration of ongoing operating costs is often pushed into the background. Analysing profitability is a challenge for many companies. As a result, the processes in intralogistics still offer great potential for optimisation in terms of costs and efficiency. For these reasons, the aim of this thesis is to identify digitalisation options and methods for calculating profitability in order to be able to evaluate these digitalisation measures. Specifically, the following research questions are answered in this thesis. Firstly, RQ1, what possibilities are there to optimise processes in intralogistics through digitalisation? Secondly, RQ2, which methods can be used to measure the economic efficiency of digitalisation measures in intralogistics? In order to answer RQ1, digitalisation measures in intralogistics are explained at the beginning, with a focus on IT systems and warehouse technology. Current trends are also highlighted. RQ2 is then discussed. Static and dynamic methods of investment calculation as well as methods for recording non-monetary factors are explained. This section also highlights the challenges and success factors of profitability in digitalisation measures. Finally, the findings are explained using a practical example. To answer the research questions, a comprehensive literature review was first conducted. Subsequently, suitable parts for the practical example were identified and applied from the digitalisation measures in intralogistics and the methods for analysing economic efficiency. The work shows that digitalisation measures in intralogistics can certainly be cost-effective. The practical example at voestalpine Stahl GmbH illustrates in particular the advantages of implementing a warehouse management system in combination with a forklift control system to optimise processes and reduce running costs. The consideration of digitalised warehouse technologies also demonstrates their cost-effectiveness, particularly through the automation of warehouses, which leads to personnel savings and lower operating costs. The holistic view shows that digitalisation measures can also underpin profitability in terms of non-monetary factors. Thus, digitalization measures in intralogistics present an economically feasible opportunity to enhance efficiency and optimize costs.
Wirtschaftlichkeit von Digitalisierungsmaßnahmen in der Intralogistik
Gutbrod, A. (Author). 2024
Student thesis: Bachelor's Thesis