Automation is the buzzword of the moment when it comes to distribution. But many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) feel that automation is cost prohibitive - that it's something for the big guys. An investment in automation, however, doesn't have to be an all or nothing proposition.

The science of robotics is impacting logistics and supply-chain management in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago. Zala Pogorelcnik, vice president of business development with Infinium Robotics, discusses the present and future of the technology.

Analyst Insight: From humble beginnings at the machine control layer, warehouse systems have matured and expanded to allow visibility and control over what is happening at the machine, parcel, associate and order/wave level. When combined with data from wearables and other Internet of Things technologies, warehouse control software will drive new opportunities for distribution efficiency. – Nikko Pianetto, Group Vice President, Integrated Technology Solutions, Fortna Inc.

Westfalia Technologies Inc., a provider of logistics applications for manufacturers, warehouses and distribution centers, has launched the Savanna.NET Warehouse Execution System.

AccellosOne Ship, the shipping module from Accellos Inc., has been integrated with AccellosOne Collect for Microsoft Dynamics GP.