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STUDY OF E-COMMERCE WAREHOUSING

Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

by

LOKESHWARAN L

REGISTER NO:42410519

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION


SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT STUDIES

SATHYABAMA
INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY)
Accredited with Grade “A++” by NAAC I 12B Status by UGC I Approved by AICTE
JEPPIAAR NAGAR, RAJIV GANDHI SALAI, CHENNAI - 600 119

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SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT STUDIES

BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that this Project Report is the bonafide work of LOKESHWARAN L
42410519 who carried out the Project Training “A STUDY OF E-COMMERCE
WAREHOUSING” under my supervision from January 2023 to March 2023.

MS.S. Shanthini M.com,MBA,NET

Internal Guide External Guide

Dr. BHUVANESWARI .G, MBA., Ph.D


Dean – School of Management Studies

Submitted for Viva voce Examination held on_____________________

Internal Examiner External Examiner

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DECLARATION

I LOKESHWARAN L (42410519) hereby declare that the Project Report entitled


“A STUDY OF E-COMMERCE WAREHOUSING” done by me under the guidance of
MS.S.SHANTHINI M.com,MBA,NET., is submitted in partial fulfilment of the
requirements for the award of Master of Business Administration degree.

DATE:

PLACE:

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I am pleased to acknowledge my sincere thanks to Board of Management of


SATHYABAMA for their kind encouragement in doing this project and for
completing it successfully. I am grateful to them.

I convey my sincere thanks to Dr. G. Bhuvaneswari, MBA., Ph.D., Dean -


School of Management Studies and Dr. A. Palani, M.Com., M.Phil., M.B.A.,
Ph.D., - Head - School of Management Studies for providing me necessary
support and details at the right time during the progressive reviews.

I would like to express my sincere and deep sense of gratitude to my Project


Guide MS.S.SHANTHINI M.com,MBA,NET for her valuable guidance,
suggestions and constant encouragement paved way for the successful
completion of my project work.

I wish to express my thanks to all Teaching and Non-teaching staff members of


the School of Management Studies who were helpful in many ways for the
completion of the Training.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER TITLE PAGE NO.


NO.

Abstract (i)
List of tables (ii)

List of charts (iii)

INTRODUCTION 10
1
1.1 Introduction 10
1.2 Theortical Background 10
1.3 Elements of Warehousing 12
1.4 Process of E-Commerce Warehousing 14
1.5 Objective of E-Commerce Warehousing 14
1.6 Need of study on E-Commerce Warehousing 15
1.7 Scope of study on E-Commerce Warehousing 15
1.8 Statement of Problem 16
1.9 Limitation of study on E-Commerce warehousing 19
2 REVIEW OF LITERATURE 20
3.1 Methodology 30
3.2 Research Design 30
3.3 Sampling Technique 31
3.4 Sources of Data 32
3.5 Structure of Questionnaire 32
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3.6 Sample Size 33
3.7 Tool Analysis 33
3.8 Percentage Analysis 34
3.9 Analytical Tools 34
3.10 Hypothesis 36
4 DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION 37
4.1 Percentage analysis 37
4.2. Chi-Square Test 55

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4.3 Anova 56
4.4 Correlation 57
5 FINDINGS, SUGGESTIONS AND CONCLUSION 58
5.1. Findings of the study 58
5.2. Suggestions 59
5.3 Conclusion 59
References 60

ANNEXURE I – Questionnaire 63
ANNEXURE II - Research article 74

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ABSTRACT

The e-commerce sector is expanding at a rapid pace, making efficient warehousing solutions
increasingly necessary. An outline of the main difficulties encountered by e-commerce
warehouses is provided in this abstract, which also looks at creative approaches to improve
productivity. Utilizing cutting-edge technologies and efficient procedures is the main goal in
order to raise order fulfillment, inventory control, and overall operational effectiveness.

The first section of the abstract talks about how traditional warehousing models are being
impacted by the changing e-commerce landscape. It draws attention to how important
warehouses are to the supply chain because they act as central locations for product distribution,
processing, and storage. E-commerce warehouses are becoming more and more important as
customer expectations for faster delivery and a seamless shopping experience rise.

The abstract also discusses the significance of incorporating intelligent warehouse management
systems, which facilitate collaboration and real-time communication between various supply
chain participants. This coordinated strategy reduces mistakes, hold-ups, and operational
bottlenecks.

In addition to being technological, the suggested solutions also call for redesigning warehouse
floor plans and implementing more adaptable storage options. The advantages of scalable
infrastructure and modular warehouse designs to meet the ever-changing needs of e-commerce
operations are covered in the abstract.

To sum up, this abstract emphasizes how important it is for e-commerce warehouses to adopt
cutting-edge technologies and smart management techniques in order to maintain their
competitiveness in the dynamic market. The solutions that have been outlined are meant to increase
productivity, cut expenses, and ultimately give e-commerce companies and their clients a better
experience.

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LIST OF TABLES
TABLE NO. PARTICULARS PAGE NO.
4.1.1 DEMOGRAPHIC GROUP ON PURCHASES 38

4.1.2 AGE OF RESPONDENTS 39

4.1.3 EDUCATION QUALIFICATION OF 40


RESPONDENTS
4.1.4 AVERAGE MONTHLY INCOME OF 40
RESPONDENTS

4.1.5 MARITAL STATUS OF RESPONDENTS 41

4.1.6 FREQUENTLY SHOP OF RESPONDENTS 42

4.1.7 SATISFIED WITH THE SPEED OF PRODUCTS OF 43


RESPONDENTS
4.1.8 ACCURACY OF PRODUCTS RECEIVED OF 44
RESPONDENTS

4.1.9 PRODUCTS USUALLY PURCHASE ON ONLINE 45

4.1.10 AVAILABILITY OF PRODUCTS IN WEBSITE 46

4.1.11 FIND USER FRIENDLY IN WEBSITE 47

4.1.12 SATISFY WITH QUALITY OF PRODUCTS 48

4.1.13 CUSTOMER SERVICE FOR ASSISTANCE 49

4.1.14 QUALITY OF PRODUCTS WERE RECEIVED IN 50


GOOD
4.1.15 RE-FUND POLICIES IN E-COMMERCE 50
PLATFORMS
4.1.16 GOODS WERE HANDLED WITH CARE OF 51
PRODUCTS

4.1.17 FEEL ABOUT ONLINE DELIVERY CHARGES 52

4.1.18 RATINGS OF WAREHOUSE 53

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LIST OF CHARTS
CHARTS NO. PARTICULARS PAGE NO.
4.1.1 DEMOGRAPHIC GROUP ON PURCHASES 38

4.1.2 AGE OF RESPONDENTS 39

4.1.3 EDUCATION QUALIFICATION OF 40


RESPONDENTS
4.1.4 AVERAGE MONTHLY INCOME OF 40
RESPONDENTS

4.1.5 MARITAL STATUS OF RESPONDENTS 41

4.1.6 FREQUENTLY SHOP OF RESPONDENTS 42

4.1.7 SATISFIED WITH THE SPEED OF PRODUCTS OF 43


RESPONDENTS
4.1.8 ACCURACY OF PRODUCTS RECEIVED OF 44
RESPONDENTS

4.1.9 PRODUCTS USUALLY PURCHASE ON ONLINE 45

4.1.10 AVAILABILITY OF PRODUCTS IN WEBSITE 46

4.1.11 FIND USER FRIENDLY IN WEBSITE 47

4.1.12 SATISFY WITH QUALITY OF PRODUCTS 48

4.1.13 CUSTOMER SERVICE FOR ASSISTANCE 49

4.1.14 QUALITY OF PRODUCTS WERE RECEIVED IN 50


GOOD
4.1.15 RE-FUND POLICIES IN E-COMMERCE 50
PLATFORMS
4.1.16 GOODS WERE HANDLED WITH CARE OF 51
PRODUCTS

4.1.17 FEEL ABOUT ONLINE DELIVERY CHARGES 52

4.1.18 RATINGS OF WAREHOUSE 53

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CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION

1.1. INTRODUCTION:

The rise in e-commerce has completely changed the way people shop, putting an unprecedented
strain on the infrastructure supporting this online marketplace's logistics and warehousing. E-
commerce warehousing needs to be efficient as more businesses shift to online platforms in order
to reach global audiences. The explosive rise of e-commerce presents a variety of difficulties, from
the need for immediate order fulfillment to the requirement for real-time inventory control. This
introduction lays the groundwork for an examination of the ever-changing field of e-commerce
warehousing, highlighting the vital role that it plays in satisfying customers' changing demands
for quick deliveries and a flawless online shopping experience. Entering the world of e-commerce
warehousing, we will concentrate on cutting-edge tactics and technology advancements meant to
streamline business processes, improve inventory accuracy, and, at the end of the day, guarantee
that customers' expectations are met in this dynamic digital commerce landscape.

1.2 THEORTICAL BACKGROUND


The theoretical foundation of e-commerce warehousing incorporates ideas from a number of
academic fields to offer a conceptual framework for comprehending the opportunities and
difficulties associated with supply chain management and online retail. The following are
important theoretical stances that advance our knowledge of e-commerce warehousing:

1. Supply Chain Management Theories:


• Lean and Agile Supply Chain: The effectiveness and responsiveness of
e-commerce warehousing are enhanced by the concepts of lean and
agile supply chain management. Lean methodologies reduce waste and
streamline operations, while agile approaches improve adaptability to
evolving customer needs.
• Bullwhip Effect: This theory discusses how changes in demand are
amplified further up the supply chain. E-commerce warehouse
management needs to reduce the bullwhip effect in order to keep
accurate stock levels and reduce disturbances.

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2. Technology Integration Theories:
• Information systems and Adoption Models: Theoretical frameworks
that aid in understanding the adoption and integration of technologies
such as automation, data analytics, and warehouse management
systems in e-commerce warehousing include the Technology
Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and
Use of Technology (UTAUT).
• Internet of Things (IoT): IoT applications in e-commerce warehousing
are consistent with theories about physical device connectivity. Real-
time monitoring is made possible by the integration of sensors and
smart devices, which also enhances order fulfillment and inventory
accuracy.

3. Customer Behavior and Experience Theories:

• Models of Consumer Decision-Making: Theoretical models such as


the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Consumer
Decision Process aid in the understanding of how consumer
behavior affects order fulfillment requirements and demand patterns
in e-commerce warehousing.
• Theories of service quality: Using models of service quality like
SERVQUAL aids in evaluating and enhancing the general customer
experience in e-commerce warehousing, encompassing elements
like order accuracy, delivery time, and communication.

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Why is Warehousing Important?
Warehousing is an essential part of the supply chain for
most types of businesses that deal in physical goods. This could be consumer businesses
holding a product that eventually makes its way to an end retail customer, or it could be
business to business (B2B) companies storing products that eventually make it to business
customers.
For retail and ecommerce businesses, warehousing allows:

• The purchase of wholesale goods in bulk that may not fit in a physical retail
store or yet be purchased by an end consumer online.
• Large bulk orders - which allow these businesses to negotiate lower prices
with their suppliers, thus improving their margins when selling to customers.

Keeping stock on hand to guarantee that products are available even when demand changes.

1.3. Elements of warehousing

1. Inventory Management:

• Real-time Tracking: Utilizing technologies such as barcoding, RFID, and warehouse


management systems (WMS) for accurate and real-time tracking of inventory.
• Demand Forecasting: Employing data analytics and predictive modeling to anticipate
product demand and optimize stock levels.

2. Order Fulfillment:

• Pick, Pack, and Ship Processes: Streamlining the picking, packing, and shipping
processes to ensure efficient order fulfillment.
• Automation and Robotics: Implementing automation technologies and robotics to
enhance the speed and accuracy of order processing.

3. Warehouse Layout and Design:

• Optimized Layout: Designing the warehouse layout for optimal flow, maximizing
space utilization and minimizing travel distances for workers.

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• Modular Design: Adopting modular and scalable designs that can adapt to changing
storage needs and seasonal fluctuations.

4. Technology Integration:

• Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): Implementing WMS to manage and


control warehouse operations, including inventory tracking, order fulfillment, and
workforce management.
• IoT and Sensors: Using Internet of Things (IoT) devices and sensors for real-time
monitoring of inventory conditions, equipment status, and environmental factors.

5. Data Analytics:

• Predictive Analytics: Leveraging data analytics to predict trends, optimize inventory


levels, and improve overall operational efficiency.
• Performance Metrics: Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure and
assess the performance of e-commerce warehousing processes.

6. Customer Experience:

• Order Accuracy: Ensuring accurate order picking and packing to enhance customer
satisfaction and reduce returns.
• Visibility and Communication: Providing customers with real-time visibility into the
status of their orders and maintaining transparent communication throughout the
fulfillment process.

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1.4. Process of E-Commerce Warehousing:

E-commerce warehousing is the smooth movement of goods from point of


receipt to point of shipment. It emphasizes effective order fulfillment, storage, and
technological integration to maximize every step of the process.

• Receiving and Inspection


• Storage and Inventory Management
• Order Picking
• Packing
• Quality Control
• Shipping and Logistics
• Order Tracking
• Returns Processing

1.5. OBJECTIVE OF E-COMMERCE WAREHOUSING:

• To Evaluate the integration of advanced technologies (AI, robotics, IoT) to enhance e-


commerce warehousing operations.
• To Identify opportunities to optimize warehouse processes, reduce errors, and improve
overall efficiency.
• To Investigate innovative last-mile delivery approaches for timely and reliable order
fulfillment.
• To Assess and recommend eco-friendly practices in e-commerce warehousing, including
sustainable packaging and energy-efficient operations.
• To Analyze how e-commerce warehousing influences customer satisfaction,
transparency, and overall online shopping experience.

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1.6. NEED OF STUDY FOR E-COMMERCE WAREHOUSING:

• Discussing the increasing importance of e-commerce in the retail industry and the
resulting demand for effective warehousing solutions.
• To remain competitive, warehouse operations must comprehend the effects of cutting-
edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and the Internet of things.
• Realizing that cross-border logistics present difficulties and that e-commerce is a global
phenomenon, calling for strategic warehousing solutions.
• Satisfying the growing demands of customers for seamless order fulfillment, quick
shipping, and open communication.
• Addressing the opportunities and problems associated with workforce management in
light of evolving operational dynamics and technology integration.

1.7. SCOPE OF STUDY FOR E-COMMERCE WAREHOUSING

• The study is to overview of the scope of e-commerce warehousing in online retail


logistics.
• Thorough examination of how to improve operational efficiency through the integration
of cutting-edge technologies (AI, robotics, and IoT)
• Analysis of cross-border logistics, last-mile delivery tactics, and the international scope
of e-commerce.
• Assessment of the effects of order fulfillment and transparency on customer satisfaction
as they relate to e-commerce warehousing.
• Research on how workforce management can help warehouse operations be optimized
in tandem with technology improvements.

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1.8. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The exponential rise in e-commerce has presented urgent challenges for


warehousing operations that require prompt resolution. The complexity of handling the increase
in online orders has increased, which has resulted in problems like inaccurate and slow order
fulfillment. Although the integration of advanced technologies promises efficiency, there are
obstacles to be overcome in terms of workforce adaptation and implementation costs. Last-mile
delivery tactics must be optimized to strike a compromise between efficiency and affordability.
The significance of sustainable warehousing methods is growing, and managing the ever-
changing regulatory environment makes things more difficult. Together, these complex issues
highlight the urgent need for an in-depth investigation into e-commerce warehousing in order to
provide solutions that improve operational efficiency and meet the changing needs of the online
retail market.

HOW TO OPTIMISE THE E-COMMERCE WAREHOUSE

1. Optimise Warehouse Layout and Storage:

The process of determining which storage location is best for each product in your
inventory is known as warehouse slotting. Slotting optimization makes it possible for warehouse
employees to pick orders more quickly, which in turn makes same-day or next-day delivery
possible a popular option in e-commerce. Making the most of your warehouse storage space is
another benefit of this style of e-commerce warehouse layout.

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2. Consider Essential Equipment:
Equipment for warehouses may be necessary, depending on your products,
volume, and business plan. All eCommerce warehouses and fulfillment centers,
however, generally have the same fundamental objectives: maximize space,
boost productivity in the movement of goods, enhance visibility, and accomplish
all of this in a manner that keeps both your products and personnel safe.

3. Embrace Automation:

When you consider that eCommerce has already made the browsing and buying process much
more efficient through automation, it makes sense to continue streamlining throughout the
process to product picking and shipping.

• Barcode scanners can help streamline picking and eliminate cycle counts while
improving accuracy.
• Convey or belts can safely move heavy containers from one area to another, eliminating
the need to carry stock and thus putting less strain on employees. Alternatively, lift-
trucks and pallet jacks can realise jobs quickly, easily, and safely.
• A laser DIM-weight scanner can automatically calculate measurements of shipments,
ensuring accuracy and speeding up the shipping process.
• Machines for mundane, repetitive tasks, such as breaking down pallets, can save time
and therefore money.

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4. Optimise Pick Paths:

Good warehouse management software is best at picking optimised pick paths for a
warehouse, because it is based on mathematical logarithms. Here are some best practices to abide
by, no matter if you are creating pick paths by hand or automation:

• There are different order picking methods (wave picking, batch picking or zone picking);
know the differences so you can make educated decisions.
• Orders should be fulfilled in such a way that individual items in one area are picked
before moving to the next area.
• Items that are often purchased together should be stored near each other.
• Picking order should be linear, with warehouse employees completing their picking run at
a location close to the final shipping area.
• REMEMBER - if warehouse employees have to backtrack or frequently cross paths, it’s
going wrong!

5. Establish Warehouse Guidelines:

It's now time to start creating warehouse policies and procedures for your employees.
Appropriate paths that are appropriate are only the beginning; you also need to take workflow,
quality control, and order accuracy into account.

• Safety procedures
• Workflow
• Quality control and accuracy
• Shipping

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6. Staff Training and Optimisation:

Training equips your staff with the critical skills they need to work fast and effectively, not
just information. The money invested in training will eventually pay for itself in terms of
productivity, accuracy, speed, and a safer working environment.

7. Integrate your systems:

The integration allows diverse business systems to share data seamlessly, opening up a
number of opportunities for cutting costs, increasing efficiency, and reducing errors.

1.9. LIMITATIONS OF STUDY:

There are various restrictions on the e-commerce warehousing research.


First off, results could become quickly out of date due to the industry's dynamic nature and the
speed at which technology is developing. Privacy concerns may limit access to e-commerce
companies' proprietary data, which could limit the scope of analysis. The generalizability of the
study is hindered by changes in regulatory environments and geographic variations in
warehousing practices. The breadth and depth of the study may be limited by resource
limitations, such as those related to time and money. Furthermore, the study might oversimplify
the variety of operational procedures found in the e-commerce warehousing landscape, which
would have an effect on a thorough understanding of the sector. It is imperative to recognize and
tackle these constraints in order to accurately interpret the study's findings.

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CHAPTER-2

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

2.1 REVIEW OF LITERATURE

The literature currently available on e-commerce warehousing emphasizes the importance


of technology integration, with a focus on automation, data analytics, and Warehouse
Management Systems (WMS) as

key components of operational efficiency. The focus is on last-mile delivery tactics, which
includes looking into creative solutions. Sustainable warehousing techniques, like energy-
efficient systems and environmentally friendly packaging, are becoming more and more popular.
Studies also highlight the importance of adaptability and the effects of growing e-commerce on
traditional supply chain dynamics. Although the literature offers insightful information, there is a
known knowledge gap regarding the long-term effects of quickly advancing technologies,
necessitating more thorough, regionally focused research.

➢ Order batch picking optimization under different storage scenarios for e-


commerce warehouses- Peng Yang( Received 10 June 2019, Revised 15
January 2020, Accepted 22 February 2020, Available online 9 March 2020,
Version of Record 9 March 2020).
Multi-location storage systems, which allow each stock keeping unit
to be stored in multiple locations or a location to contain multiple stock keeping
units, have been developed and implemented in practice to increase the
operational efficiency of e-commerce warehouses. The distance that pickers must
travel to finish their tasks when picking orders in a batch is clearly impacted by
how they choose the picking location among storage locations that have the same
stock keeping unit. This study developed an algorithm package that includes the
location interval distance algorithm, location selection algorithm, routing
algorithm, and order batching algorithm to address the order batch picking
optimization problems for three common storage systems.

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➢ A B2C e-commerce intelligent system for re-engineering the e-order
fulfilment process-K.H.Leung(Received 30 May 2017, Revised 25 July 2017,
Accepted 9 September 2017, Available online 11 September 2017, Version of
Record 5 October 2017).
In a conventional supply chain, products are moved from the
factory to actual retail locations via processing at several levels of the chain. In
physical stores, end users make purchases and receive the goods. The end-user's
purchasing process in today's omni-channel retailing involves multiple sources,
including both online and offline. The online retailer can accept orders from end
users at any time and from any location. since orders are placed online.
➢ Picker routing in rectangular mixed shelves warehouses-Felix
Weidinger(Received 18 August 2016, Revised 9 January 2018, Accepted 22
March 2018, Available online 26 March 2018, Version of Record 3 April
2018).
Dubbed mixed shelf storage or scattered storage, this type of
warehousing is frequently used in business-to-consumer online retailing. Single
items from unit loads are dispersed throughout the warehouse, resulting in
multiple storage locations for each stock keeping unit.In a dispersed storage
warehouse, picker routing combines the tasks of determining which storage
positions to visit and arranging a route between them. For the general case of
facultative distance matrices, the problem is formalized.

➢ Design and control of warehouse order picking-René de Koster(Received 29


August 2005, Accepted 17 July 2006, Available online 13 January 2011).
It has long been known that order picking is the most expensive and
labor-intensive task for practically all warehouses; order picking costs can account
for up to 55% of all warehouse operating expenses. Any order picking inadequacy
can result in poor customer service, excessive operating costs for the warehouse,
and ultimately for the entire supply chain. The order-picking process requires
optimal control and robust design to function effectively. An overview of the
literature on common decision-making issues in the design and control of manual

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order-picking procedures is provided in this paper. Recent years have seen a sharp
increase in this field of study. However, few combinations of the aforementioned
fields have been investigated. Practical developments of order-picking systems
open up exciting new avenues for research.
➢ Improving order-picking performance by converting a sequential zone-
picking line into a zone-picking network-Ying-Chin Ho(Received 14
February 2017, Revised 3 September 2017, Accepted 11 September 2017,
Available online 12 September 2017, Version of Record 25 September 2017).
By putting forth a novel zone-picking network that provides orders
with routing flexibility, we address the issues raised by the fixed-sequence-route
constraint in a sequential zone-picking line in this research. Retrieving items from
storage facilities in accordance with customer orders is known as order-picking.
Maximizing service level (e.g., order integrity, order accuracy, and the average
and variation of order delivery time) under various resource constraints is a
common goal of order-picking systems.

➢ A Visualization Approach for Monitoring Order Processing in E-Commerce


Warehouse-Boyang Xie,Yuhua Zhou(01 October 2021).
For e-commerce to succeed, warehouse efficiency is essential. Order
fulfillment at the warehouses happens quickly, which guarantees on-time delivery
and raises customer satisfaction. However, because of the enormous volume of
incoming orders, the hazy definition of delayed order patterns, and the difficult
decision-making involved in determining order handling priorities, monitoring,
analyzing, and manipulating order processing in the warehouses in real time is
difficult for traditional methods. Using a data-driven methodology, we present
Order Monitor in this paper, a visual analytics system that helps warehouse
managers analyze and enhance order processing efficiency in real time using data
from streaming warehouse events. Two case studies using an actual warehouse
dataset are used to assess Order Monitor's efficacy.

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➢ Application of Data Analysis in Warehouse Optimization and Customer
Segmentation- Minghao Gong (17 February 2022).

The traditional retail industry has been impacted by the rapid growth of e-
commerce and has been forced to combine data analysis, machine learning, and other
modern techniques in order to drive the development of new retail. In order to present a
workable plan to cut costs and increase sales profits, this paper examined the two
connections between warehouse (which belongs to the supply chain) and customer
purchasing behavior (which belongs to consumers) in the business ecosystem. Above all,
a detailed description of the role that machine learning models like K-means and data
statistics and analysis play in the long-term, sustainable growth of the retail sector was
provided.

➢ A multi objective optimization model for sustainable reverse logistics in


Indian E-commerce market-Pankaj Dutta(Received 16 February 2019,
Revised 14 November 2019, Accepted 16 November 2019, Available online 18
November 2019, Version of Record 17 January 2020).
Business owners and other stakeholders are starting to place a higher
premium on a cleaner and more sustainable environment. It could be
accomplished by implementing more environmentally friendly practices, such as
reducing waste through the processes of recovery, recycling, and remanufacturing,
which lowers costs and protects the environment. A more effective, sustainable,
and dependable reverse logistics design is required in light of the recent growth of
the e-commerce industry and online shopping in India. This design must take cost,
environmental, and social factors into account. This paper presents a multi-
objective logistics network model for return products specifically related to the
Indian e-commerce market, taking into account the factors mentioned above. The
managers will use this study's findings to determine how many facility stores and
warehouses to and run, technology to be implemented for a more effective method
of product processing and transfer.

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➢ A reverse logistics network design-Ali Diabat (Received 31 March 2014,
Revised 18 February 2015, Accepted 19 February 2015, Available online 4
April 2015, Version of Record 9 December 2015).
Due to a confluence of social, economic, and environmental factors, reverse
logistics (RL) has attracted a lot of attention lately. The term "reverse logistics"
describes a set of activities that start at the consumer level with product collection
and end with reprocessing of these products at remanufacturing facilities. This
reduces the amount of money that can be invested in fleet or center expansion in
later periods. Results of testing the model on an actual case are reported. The
current work has important practical implications because it can help decision
makers in the public and private sectors make critical strategic choices about the
layout of reverse supply chains
➢ Evaluating the benefits of picking and packing planning integration in e-
commerce warehouses-Shuya Zhong ,Vaggelis Giannikas,Jorge Merino
(Received 25 September 2020, Accepted 24 September 2021, Available online
2 October 2021, Version of Record 23 March 2022).
In light of recent assertions regarding the possible benefits of integration
in warehouse management, this study assesses the advantages of integrating order
picking and packing process planning in e-commerce warehouses. A series of
research inquiries are put forth to investigate diverse advantages in varying
operational scenarios, and an empirical investigation is formulated to provide
answers. A mixed-integer nonlinear programming model is created in order to
have a tangible representation of the integrated planning method. It is then
contrasted with a non-integrated variation. The empirical data that was gathered
from an actual warehouse is analyzed in the experimental study in order to draw
comparisons. Our research suggests that integrated picking and packing planning
can result in better performance across a range of parameters when objective
workforce distribution.

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➢ Risk control for staff planning in e-commerce warehouses-Susanne wruck
(8th june 2016 and online published in 19th july 2016).
Supply chains for online sales frequently have to process small orders
quickly for a large number of customers. The consequent surge in demand and
unpredictability in planning present novel obstacles for e-commerce warehouse
operations. Here, we create a decision support tool to help managers choose the
right risk policies and decide how to plan staffing under ambiguous circumstances.
Approaches to risk optimization and expected value-based optimization have been
analyzed using multistage stochastic modeling. To evaluate the tool's applicability,
extensive numerical and practical validations have been carried out. Using an e-
commerce warehouse in the Netherlands, we show that the multi-period
conditional value at risk seems to be the most relevant.

➢ Increasing order picking efficiency by integrating storage, batching, zone


picking, and routing policy decisions-Teun van Gils(Received 14 June 2016,
Revised 22 November 2017, Accepted 23 November 2017, Available online 2
December 2017, Version of Record 6 February 2018).

Warehouses take late orders and deliver quickly to set themselves apart from
competitors in the customer service department. This pattern results in a shorter order
selection time. This study's primary goals are to identify the related order picking
planning problems, provide an explanation for the relationships between specific
planning problems, and pinpoint the best performing policy combinations in various
real-world scenarios. The results of earlier studies on the relationships between
planning issues are inconsistent. This paper is the first to use a full factorial ANOVA
to explicitly analyze and statistically demonstrate the relationships between storage,
batching, zoning, and routing. Through a real-world case study, the benefits of
combining the four primary order picking planning problems are demonstrated in
addition to various generalized warehouse designs.The study's findings unequivocally
show that warehouses can gain a great deal by simultaneously taking zone picking,
batching, storage, and routing policies into account.

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➢ Research on warehouse operation: A comprehensive review-Jinxiang
Gu(Received 17 March 2005, Accepted 12 February 2006, Available online 13
January 2011).
A thorough analysis of planning issues related to warehouse operations
is provided. The basic warehouse functions—receiving, storing, order picking,
and shipping—are used to categorize the problems. Each category's literature is
summed up with a focus on the features of different decision support models and
algorithmic solutions. By outlining the planning models and techniques that are
currently available for warehouse operations and outlining potential areas for
future research, the goal is to serve as a bridge between academic researchers and
warehouse practitioners.

➢ Product location, allocation and server home base location for an order
picking line with multiple servers-Elizabeth Jewkes (Available online 2 April
2003)
This paper examines a number of related control problems for a "pick to
order" (also known as "strict" order picking) picking line that keeps N=nk different
product types in n bins with k shelves apiece. In order to fill each order, a container
is driven past the different product locations. Using a "out and back" picking
technique, the right amount of each product is taken out of its designated storage
location and placed into the order container. A set of products, or a "zone," is
assigned to each of several pickers. The concurrent issues of
(1) product location
(2) picker home base location and
(3) product allocation
To each picker in order to minimize the expected order cycle time are of interest
to us. We offer readily implementable algorithms to resolve these issues and
demonstrate that the outcomes hold true for a number of different picking tactics.
We create an effective dynamic programming algorithm that determines the best
server locations and product allocation for fixed product locations.

26
➢ Optimal Picking Policies in E-Commerce Warehouses-Maximilian Schiffer,
Nils Boysen, Patrick S. Klein (published in online 24th march 2022)
Online retailers use the mixed-shelves (or scattered storage) concept in e-
commerce warehouses to increase efficiency. This involves purposefully breaking
down unit loads into single items that are then individually stored in multiple
locations. This storage strategy increases the probability that, somewhere in the
warehouse, the items of the requested stock keeping units will be in close
proximity, regardless of the number of stock keeping units a customer jointly
orders. Our findings show that picking performance can be significantly increased
by carefully considering the arrangement of the picking zone, dynamic batching,
drop-off locations, and picking carts. Specifically, when compared to the standard
policies that are currently in use, some combinations of policies result in efficiency
The bidirectional layered graph algorithm that yields the best known performance
for the basic picking problem with a single depot and no additional attributes is
embedded in this framework. We present a comparison of three real-world e-
commerce warehouse settings, which vary slightly in how they apply policies for
picking and scattered storage.
➢ E-commerce supply chain network design using on-demand warehousing
system under uncertainty-Junhyeok Lee, Changseong Ko (Received 02 May
2022, Accepted 14 Sep 2022, Published online: 06 Oct 2022).

Due to limited warehouse capacity, e-commerce retailers have struggled to


meet the rising demand. Thankfully, a new solution to address warehouse capacity
concerns is the on-demand warehousing system. Numerous studies that have examined
the supply chain issue in light of on-demand warehousing have been conducted recently.
Nonetheless, no research has addressed the fundamental benefit of on-demand
warehousing—the property of commitment—and inherent uncertainty at the same time.
Especially noteworthy is the technique we devise to produce efficient first cuts that
accelerate the Benders decomposition algorithm's convergence. According to
computational results, for problems of practical size, the developed method could find an
efficient, workable solution in a reasonable amount of time. Additionally, we demonstrate

27
the notable financial savings based on the experiment results that come from designing
supply chain networks with an on-demand warehousing system.

➢ Order-Picking Efficiency in E-Commerce Warehouses-Yi Li, Ruining


Zhang(Received: 16 October 2022 / Revised: 17 November 2022 / Accepted:
2 December 2022 / Published: 7 December 2022).
This paper reviews the literature on the application of order-picking
strategy and efficiency optimization in e-commerce warehouses to analyze the
issues about order-picking efficiency that are currently being studied by relevant
scholars. This primarily falls into the "picker-to-parts" and "parts-to-picker"
categories of picking systems. The picking strategies of storage assignment, order
batching, and the integration of multiple picking strategies receive greater
attention in the "picker-to-parts" picking system. On the other hand, in the "parts-
to-picker" picking system, the picking station's coordination and the man-machine
collaboration in the Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS) and the
Mobile Robot Fulfillment System (RMFS) are the primary focus.

➢ An efficient scattered storage assignment algorithm with bulky locations-


Mengya Liu, Kim Leng Poh (Received 20 December 2021, Revised 18
February 2023, Accepted 4 April 2023, Available online 8 April 2023, Version
of Record 16 May 2023).
One of the main issues facing e-commerce retailers at the moment is
how to put together a sizable number of diverse, time-sensitive customer orders
from a broad variety of products. Internet fulfillment warehouses (IFWs) are made
to handle the fast-paced environment of handling sales and customer orders of
online retailers. A popular storage assignment strategy used by many IFWs is
scattered storage, in contrast to traditional warehouses that could barely keep up
with the surge in demands brought about by the e-commerce boom. The newly
arrived items are deliberately dispersed throughout the entire warehouse and
exploded into numerous small stocking lots under the scattered storage strategy. A
novel scattered storage assignment strategy that is appropriate for IFW operations
is presented in this paper.

28
➢ The role of data warehousing in the infrastructure of e-commerce. Dr. Saini
Akhilesh Online (Published on 30th Jan 2023).
A data warehouse is an archive of information that can be examined to
learn more about the "goings on" within a business. Increased knowledge has the
potential to improve decision-making. Despite being around for a while, this
architecture is not widely used. Numerous investigators have observed that it is
not ingrained in business. Thus, while the e-commerce sector is expanding quickly
and technological advancements in hardware and software are also present, very
few businesses appear to be aware of how to leverage data warehousing
technologies to thrive in the e-commerce space. Some businesses have
successfully implemented data warehouses and grown to become e-commerce
leaders and pioneers.

➢ Warehousing and Facility Location in E-Commerce. chandrima


bhattachariya, saumya Saurabh(Published on 30th may 2021)
The thriving e-commerce industry has simplified and expedited the process
of buying and selling. But e-commerce companies and their logistics providers
pay a price for the convenience and options offered to sellers and buyers. The
supply chain procedures are always under pressure to deliver goods and services
effectively and efficiently in order to meet the demand, which is increasing at an
unprecedented rate, within the allotted budget and time frame. In general, the
traditional warehouses are out of date with today's evolving needs. As a result, the
demand for automated warehouses using lean principles and cutting-edge
technologies has increased. In this study, we discuss the importance of facility
location and warehousing in the e-commerce industry of today's world.

29
CHAPTER 3

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 METHODOLOGY:

The study of e-commerce warehousing research methodology employs a mixed-


methods approach. The study will employ surveys and interviews to gather insights from
industry professionals and warehouse managers, utilizing a combination of qualitative and
quantitative techniques. Both statistical software and qualitative coding techniques will be used
to analyze the data. The study will concentrate on operational effectiveness, sustainability
practices, and technology integration in e-commerce warehousing. Key industry stakeholders
will be purposefully chosen as part of the sampling process. Participant confidentiality and
informed consent will be used to address ethical issues. The goal of the study is to present a
thorough grasp of the issues and practices surrounding e-commerce warehousing today.

3.2 RESEARCH DESIGN:

Planning the investigation into different facets of warehousing procedures within an e-


commerce context is known as research design for e-commerce warehousing. The following
could be part of an e-commerce warehousing research design:

➢ Objective: Clearly define the purpose of the study, such as optimizing efficiency,
reducing costs, or improving customer satisfaction in e-commerce warehousing.
➢ Methodology: Specify the research methods, which may include interviews, surveys,
case studies, or a combination, to gather relevant data.
➢ Warehousing Procedures: Within the e-commerce supply chain, identify and
concentrate on the primary warehousing procedures, such as order fulfillment, inventory
control, and shipping.
➢ Technology Integration: Examine the effects on efficiency of integrating technologies
such as automation, robotics, or artificial intelligence in e-commerce warehouses.
➢ Data Collection: Describe the steps involved in gathering data, such as the sources,
instruments, and categories of information (qualitative or quantitative).

30
➢ Sample Selection: Define the criteria for selecting e-commerce warehouses or
companies to study, considering factors like size, scale, and technology adoption
➢ Analysis Techniques: Specify the analytical methods to be used for interpreting the
collected data, such as statistical analysis or qualitative coding.
➢ Timeline and Resources: Provide a timeline for the research project, along with the
required resources, including budget, personnel, and technology.
➢ Ethical Considerations: Talk about the privacy and confidentiality of data as well as any
possible effects on the participating e-commerce warehouses.

3.3 SAMPLING TECHNIQUE

➢ Stratified Sampling: Sort e-commerce warehouses into groups according to factors like
order volume, size, and technology adoption.
➢ Random Sampling within Strata: To guarantee representation across various attributes,
choose warehouses at random from each stratum.
➢ Purposeful Sampling: Focus on particular warehouses recognized for their efficiency or
inventive methods, offering comprehensive insights.
➢ Convenience Sampling: Choose warehouses that are accessible or available for initial or
exploratory research.
➢ Cluster Sampling: To maximize data collection efficiency, warehouses can be grouped
geographically and then randomly selected into clusters.
➢ Systematic Sampling: To guarantee a systematic representation of the population, select
each nth warehouse from a list.

31
3.4. SOURCES OF DATA

In this research, internal and external source of data are used. Collected raw materials
through facts and figure of researcher’s works. Collecting data from company records and
document, these are all internal data and other data are external.

In data collection, there are 2 types

• Primary Data
It is a source of collecting data by first-hand information through observation,
direct communication or personal of respondent’s customers. In this,
questionnaire is used for conducting personal interviews and for collecting the
data.
• Secondary Data
It is collected from standard books, internal sources, magazines and newspapers
and also collecting data from external and internal sources from the company
annual reports, company additional profile and company internal website.

3.5. STRUCTURE FOR QUSTIONNAIRE

The e-commerce warehousing questionnaire is designed to effectively collect


relevant data. An introduction is given first, then sections on the company and warehouse
information follow. The sections that follow go into detail about particular warehousing
procedures, integrating technology, difficulties, and future considerations. The final section of
the questionnaire evaluates overall satisfaction and requests any further remarks or
recommendations. This methodical approach guarantees a thorough investigation Of important
aspects like order fulfillment, inventory control, technology use, obstacles encountered, and
ways to improve. The goal of the clear yet comprehensive design is to extract insightful
information that will help improve e-commerce warehousing practices.

32
3.6. SAMPLE SIZE

The sample size for this research project is 102.

SAMPLE DESIGN

A specific, well-thought-out plan is created before population data is gathered. The


study ought to choose a specific sample. There are two types of sampling: non-probability
sampling and probability sampling. Only nonprobability sampling is employed in this study.

SAMPLING

• Sampling design : Non-probability sampling


• Sampling technique: Convenience sampling
• Sample unit : Customers
• Sample size : 102 respondents

PERIOD OF STUDY:

E-commerce warehousing studies usually cover a representative time period that


takes operational dynamics and seasonal variations into account.

AREA OF STUDY:

The area of study for e-commerce warehousing focuses on the operational


processes, technology integration, and efficiency within warehouse facilities in the context of
online retail.

3.7 TOOLS ANALYSIS:

Questionnaire was created in order to receive the necessary response required


from the sample to achieve the research objective.

33
3.8 PERCENTAGE ANALYSIS:

Descriptive statistics are always used to answer research questions. Usually, the mean
or the percentage. When it's critical to determine the proportion of respondents who provided a
specific response, a percentage makes sense. When there are distinct categories in the responses,
a percentage is typically reported.

3.9 ANALYTICAL TOOLS(SPSS)

Tools for testing the hypothesis (SPSS)

• Anova
• Chi-square test
• Correlation

ANOVA

A statistical test called a One-Way ANOVA, also known as a One-Factor ANOVA,


compares the means of three or more independent groups to see if there are any statistically
significant differences between them. The One-Way ANOVA determines if there is more
variation in the data overall than there is within each group, more specifically, whether there is
more variation between the group means.

FORMULA:

The test statistic is the F statistic for ANOVA,

F=MSB/MSE

34
CORRELATION

A statistical measure used to characterize the strength of a relationship or association


between two variables is called correlation. It illustrates the potential relationship between
changes in one variable and changes in another.

CHI-SQUARE TEST

A chi-square (χ2) statistic is a test that measures how a model compares to actual
observed data. The data used in calculating a chi-square statistic must be random, raw, mutually
exclusive, drawn from independent variables, and drawn from a large enough sample. For
example, the results of tossing a fair coin meet these criteria. Chi- square tests are often used in
hypothesis testing. The chi-square statistic compares the size of any discrepancies between the
expected results and the actual results, given the size of the sample and the number of variables
in the relationship. For these tests, degrees of freedom are utilized to determine if a certain null
hypothesis can be rejected based on the total number of variables and samples within the
experiment. As with any statistic, the larger the sample size, the more reliable the results.

FORMULA: X2 c =∑ (oi – Ei)2 Ei F=MSB/MSE.

35
3.10 HYPOTHESIS

• HYPOTHESIS 1(Gender-Based Hypothesis)


Null Hypothesis (H0): Gender has no significant impact on purchasing patterns
on the e-commerce platform.
Alternative Hypothesis (H1): There is a significant difference in purchasing
behavior between male and female demographic groups.
• HYPOTHESIS 2(Age Group Hypothesis)
Null Hypothesis (H0): There is no significant difference in purchasing behavior
among different age groups on the e-commerce platform.
Alternative Hypothesis (H1): A specific age group exhibits a significantly higher
frequency of purchases compared to others.
• HYPOTHESIS 3 (GENERAL AVERAGE INCOME)
Null Hypothesis (H0): The average monthly income of a population is equal to a
specified value.
Alternative Hypothesis (H1): The average monthly income of a population is not
equal to the specified value.
• HYPOTHESIS 4(GOODS WERE HANDLED WITH CARE)
Null Hypothesis (H0): There is no significant difference in the perceived care in
handling goods between different e-commerce platforms.
Alternative Hypothesis (H1): There is a significant difference in the perceived care
in handling goods between different e-commerce.
• HYPOTHESIS 5 (FREQUENCY OF SHOP ONLINE)
Null Hypothesis (H0): There is no significant difference in the frequency of online
shopping across different demographic groups.
Alternative Hypothesis (H1): There is a significant difference in the frequency of
online shopping among various demographic groups.

36
CHAPTER 4
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION

4.1. PERCENTAGE ANALYSIS


4.1.1 Table indicating the gender of respondents

S.NO DEMOGRAPHIC GROUP RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE


ANALYSIS
01 Men 45 44.1%
02 Woman 47 46.1%
03 Others 10 9.8%
TOTAL 102 100%

INTERPRETATION

From the above table it is interpreted that the gender of the respondents is male
44.1% and number of respondents in female are 46.1 % and others of the respondents of 9.8%
INFERENCE
Majority 46.1% of the respondents are Female.

37
4.1.2 Table indicating the age of respondents

S.no Age No of Respondents Percentage analysis


1 Below 20 19 18.6%
2 21-35 67 65.7%
3 36-50 13 12.7%
4 Above 50 03 2.9%
Total 102 100%

INTERPRETATION
From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents below 20 ages
of respondents are 18.6%, between 21-35 age of respondents are 65.7%, between 36-50 age of
respondents 12.7%, Above 50 age of respondents are 2.9%.

INFERENCE
Majority 65.7 % of the respondents belong to the age group of 21-35 category.

38
4.1.3 Table indicating the Qualification of respondents.

S.no Education No of Respondents Percentage analysis


qualification
1 Student 20 19.6%
2 Under Graduate 42 41.2%
3 Post Graduate 34 33.3%
4 Higher Studies 6 5.9%
Total 102 100%

INTERPRETATION

From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents Student of
respondents are 19.6% Under Graduate of respondents are 41.2%, and Post Graduate of
respondents 33.3 %, Higher Studies of respondents are 5.9%.

INFERENCE

Majority 41.2% of the respondents belongs to UG educational qualification.

39
4.1.4 Table indicating the Average Monthly Income of respondents.

S.no Average Income No of Respondents Percentage analysis


1 Below 20000 47 46%
2 20000-40000 36 35.3%
3 40000-60000 11 10.8%
4 Above 60000 08 7.8%

Total 102 100%

INTERPRETATION
From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 46% is Below
20,000, 35.3% is 20,000-40,000, 10.8% is 40,000-60,000,7.8% is Above 60,000.

INFERENCE
Majority 46% of the respondents is Below 20,000.

40
4.1.5 Table indicating the Martial Status of respondents

S.no Martial Status No of Respondents Percentage analysis


1 Un Married 64 62.7%
2 Married 38 37.3%
Total 102 100%

Indicating the Marital status

INTERPRETATION

From the above table 62.7% of respondents are unmarried and 37.3% of respondents are
married

INFERENCE

Majority 62.7 % of the respondents were unmarried.

41
4.1.6 Table indicating the How frequently do you shop online.
How Frequently do you shop online.

S.NO Frequently Respondents Percentage


analysis
01 Rarely 17 16.7%
02 Occasionly 45 44.1%
03 Frequently 26 25.5%
04 Very 14 13.7%
Frequently
Total 102 100%

INTERPRETATION
From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 44.1% is
occasionly, 25.5% is Frequently, 13.7% is Very Frequently, 16.7% is rarely.

INFERENCE
Majority 44.1% of the respondents from the Occasionly.

42
4.1.7 Table indicating the satisfied with the speed of delivery for products purchased
online of respondents.

How satisfied are you with the speed of delivery for products.

S.NO SATISFIED WITH RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE


YOUR PRODUCT ANALYSIS

01 Very Dissatisfied 03 2.9%


02 Dissatisfied 15 14.7%
03 Neutral 40 39.2%
04 Satisfied 41 40.2%
05 Very Satisfied 03 2.9%
TOTAL 102 100%

INTERPRETATION
From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 2.9% is Very
Dissatisfied, 14.7% is Dissatisfied,39.2% is Neutral, 40.2% is Satisfied, 2.9% is Very
satisfied.

INFERENCE
Majority 40.2% of the respondents belongs to Neutral.

43
4.1.8 Table indicating the most effective way of engaging the employee

According to you which is the most effective way of engaging the employee?

S.NO ACCURACY RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE


OF ANALYSIS
PRODUCTS
01 Very Poor 0 0%
02 Poor 8 7.8%
03 Fair 46 45.1%
04 Good 42 41.2%
05 Excellent 6 5.9%
TOTAL 102 100%

INTERPRETATION
From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 7.8% is Poor,
45.1% is Fair, 41.2% is Good, 5.9% is Excellent.

INFERENCE
Majority 45.1% of the respondents said that training is the most effective way of fair of accuracy
of the products received compared to what you ordered.

44
4.1.9 Table indicating the products do you usually purchase through online

What type of products do you usually purchase through online?

S.NO PRODUCTS RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE


ANALYSIS
01 Electronics 55 53.9%

02 Clothing and Fashion 67 65.7%

03 Home and Kitchen Appliances 60 58.8%

04 Beauty and Personalcare 55 53.9%

05 Groceries 13 12.7%

INTERPRETATION
From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 53.9% is
Electronics, 65.7% is Clothing and Fashion, 58.8% is Home and Kitchen Appliances, 12.7%
is Groceries.

INFERENCE

Majority 65.7% of the respondents agree that they products usually purchase through online.

45
4.1.10 Table indicating the organization provide you with recognition for your
accomplishment at work

Does organization provide you with recognition for your accomplishment at work?

S.NO AVAILABILITY OF RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE


PRODUCTS ANALYSIS

01 Very Poor 2 2%
02 Poor 0 0
03 Fair 59 57.8%
04 Good 38 37.3%
05 Excellent 3 2.9%
TOTAL 102 100%

INTERPTRETATION
From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 2% is
Very Poor, 57.8% is Fair, 37.3% is Good, 2.9% is Excellent.

INFERENCE
Majority 57.8% of the respondents agree that the availability of products you were looking
for the in the E-commerce store.

46
4.1.11 Table indicating the friendly do you find the e-commerce website or
application.

How use friendly do you find the e-commerce website or application.

S.NO E- RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE


COMMERCE ANALYSIS
WEBSITE
01 Not user 05 4.9%
friendly at all
02 Somewhat user 47 46.1%
friendly
03 Moderately 45 44.1%
user friendly
04 Exremely user 05 4.9%
friendly
TOTAL 102 100%

INTERPRETATION

From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 44.1% is
Moderately user friendly, 4.9% is Extremely user friendly, 46.1% is Somewhat user friendly,
4.9% is Not user friendly at all.

INFERENCE
Majority 46.1% of the respondents agree that the e-commerce website or application.

47
4.1.12 Table indicating the How satisfied are you with the quality of products.

How satisfied are you with the quality of products.

S.NO SATISFY WITH QUALITY OF RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE


PRODUCTS ANALYSIS
01 1(Very poor) 1 1%
02 2(Poor) 6 5.9%
03 3(Fair) 51 50%
04 4(Good) 38 37.3%
05 5(Excellent) 6 5.9%
TOTAL 102 100%

INTERPRETATION

From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 5.9% is
Excellent, 37.3% is Good, 50% is Fair, 5.9% is Poor,1% is Very Poor.

INFERENCE
Majority 50%of the respondents agree that the satisfied with the quality of products.

48
4.1.13 Table indicating the How do you typically contact customer service for
assistance
How do you typically contact customer service for assistance
S.NO CUSTOMER WAITING SUPPORT RESPONSE
SWERVICE TIME STAFF RECEIVED
FOR KNOWLEDGE
ASSISTANCE

01 Very 6 1 1
Dissatisfied
02 Dissatisfied 10 6 9
03 Neutral 59 61 53
04 Satisfied 24 32 35
05 Very Satisfied 3 2 4

INTERPRETATION
From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 3% in Very
Dissatisfied, 8.3% is dissatisfied, 61% in Neutral, 30.3% is satisfied,3% in very satisfied.

INFERENCE
Majority 61 % of the respondents have typically contact customer service for assistance.

49
4.1.14 Table indicating the packaging quality of the products ensured that they arrived in
perfect condition.

packaging quality of the products ensured that they arrived in perfect


condition.
S.NO QUALITY OF PRODUCTS RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE
ANALYSIS
01 Strongly Disagree 3 2.9%
02 Disagree 6 5.9%
03 Neutral 37 36.3%
04 Agree 38 37.3%
05 Strongly Agree 18 17.6%
Total 102 100%

INTERPRETATION
From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 2.9% is
Strongly disagree, 6% is disagree, 36.3% is Neutral, 37.3% is agree,17.6% is strongly agree.

INFERENCE
Majority 37.3%% of the respondents agree that the company packaging quality of the products
ensured that they arrived in perfect condition.

50
4.1.15 Table indicating the How clear do you find the refund policies by our e-commerce
platforms.
How clear do you find the refund policies by our e-commerce platforms.
S.NO REFUND RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE
POLICIES ANALYSIS
01 Not clear at 3 2.9%
all
02 Slightly 14 13.7%
clear at all
03 Moderately 52 51%
clear
04 Very clear 26 25.5%
05 Extremely 7 6.9%
Clear
102 100%

INTERPRETATION
From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 25.5% in very
clear, 51% in moderately clear, 6.9% in Extremely Clear, 13.7% in slightly clear,2.9% in not
clear at all.
INFERENCE
Majority 51% of the respondents agree that employees are refund the policies by our e-
commerce platforms.

51
4.1.16 Table indicating the goods were handled with care in our e-commerce survey.

Did you use the goods were handled with care in our e-commerce
survey.

S.NO HANDLED WITH CARE RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE


ANALYSIS
01 Not handled with care at al 1 1%
02 Handled with minimal care 15 14.7%
03 Handled with moderate care 34 33.3%
04 Handled with good care 49 48%
05 Handled with exceptional care 3 2.9%
102 100%

INTERPRETATION

From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 1% is Not
handled with care at all, 14.7% is Handled with minimal care, 33.3% is Handled with moderate
care, 48% is Handled with good care,2.9% is Handled with exceptional care.

INFERENCE
Majority 48% of the respondents agree that the goods were handled with care in our e-
commerce survey.

52
4.1.17 Table indicating the Do you see a path for career advancement at the organization

Do you see a path for career advancement at the organization?


S.NO DELIVERY RESPONDE PER
CHARGES NTS CEN
TAG
E
01 Too expensive 5 4.9%
02 Somewhat 30 29.4
Expensive %
03 Reasonable 36 35.3
%
04 Affordable 27 26.5
%
05 Excellent value 4 3.9%
for money
TOTAL 102 100%

INTERPRETATION

From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 4.9% is Too
expensive, 29.4% is Somewhat expensive, 35.3% is Reasonable, 26.5% is Affordable,3.9% is
Excellent value for money.
INFERENCE
Majority 35.3% is Reasonable of the respondents agreed that do you feel about online
delivery charges.

53
4.1.18 Table indicating the do you feel the stress is managable

Do you feel that level of stress is manageable?


S.NO RATE RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE
01 10 4 3.9%

02 9 21 20.6%
03 8 36 35.3%
04 7 25 24.5%
05 6 9 8.8%
06 5 0 0%
07 4 0 0%
08 3 0 0%
09 2 0 0%
10 1 1 1%
TOTAL 102 100%

INTERPRETATION

From the above table it is interpreted that the number of respondents were 3.9% is rate of
10,20.6% is rate of 9,35.3% is rate of 8,24.5% is rate of 7,8.8% is rate of 6,1% is rate of 1.

INFERENCE
Majority 35.3% of the respondents have satisfaction level towards e-commerce
warehousing.

54
HYPOTHESIS 1
• Null Hypothesis (H0): There is no significant impact of gender or age on
purchasing patterns on the e-commerce platform.
• Alternative Hypothesis (H1): There is a significant impact of gender or age of
purchasing patterns on the e-commerce platform.

CHI-SQUARE TEST

Which demographic group made


the most purchases on e-
commerce platform? Total
1 2 3
Which age group do 1 10 7 2 19
you belong to? 2 27 35 5 67
3 7 3 3 13
4 1 2 0 3
Total 45 47 10 102
Asymptotic
Significance
Value df (2- sided)
Pearson Chi-Square 6.579a 6 .362
Likelihood Ratio 6.541 6 .365
Linear-by- .214 1 .644
Linear
Association
N of Valid Cases 102

INTERPRETATION
The chi-square test value is 0.362 is greater than p value (0.05). H0 is accepted and H1 is
rejected.

INFERENCE
Therefore, there is a no significant difference between the age and demographic group made
the most purchases on e-commerce platform.

55
HYPOTHESIS – 2

• Null Hypothesis (H0): There is no significant difference between that the average monthly
income and the frequency of online shopping.
• Alternative Hypothesis (H1): There is a significant difference between that the average
monthly income and the frequency of online shopping.

One way Anova

95% Confidence Interval for


Mean

Mean Std. Deviation Std. Error Lower Bound Upper Bound Minimum
1.41 .795 .193 1.00 1.82 1
1
7 1.64 .857 .128 1.39 1.90 1
45
2.23 .908 .178 1.86 2.60 1
26
2.00 1.038 .277 1.40 2.60 1
14
1.80 .923 .091 1.62 1.99 1
T
102
o

df Mean F Sig.
Sum of Squares
Square
Between 9.034 3 3.011 3.831 .012
Groups
Within Groups 77.044 98 .786
Total 86.078 101
INTERPRETATION
The anova value is 0.12 grater than p value (0.05). H0 is accepted and H1 is rejected.

INFERENCE

Therefore, there no is a significant difference between the average monthly income and
frequency of online shopping.

56
HYPOTHESIS 3
• Null hypothesis (H0): There is no significant between purchasing among different age
groups and received goods with handled with care.

• Alternative hypothesis(H1): There is a significant between purchasing among


different age groups and received goods with handled with care.

CORRELATION:

Indicate
whether
the goods
were
Which age
handled
group do
with care
you belong
in our e-
to?
commerce
survey.
Which age group do Pearson 1 .000
you belong to? Correlation
Sig. (2-tailed) 1.000
N 102 102
Indicate whether the Pearson .000 1
goods were handled Correlation
with care in our e- Sig. (2-tailed) 1.000
commerce survey.
N 102 102

INTERPRETATION:
The value of correlation is 0.00 and is lesser than p value of (0.05). H0 is rejected and H1
is accepted.

INFERENCE:
Therefore, there no is a significant difference between the age and goods were handled
with care in our e-commerce survey.

57
CHAPTER 5
FINDINGS, SUGGESTIONS AND CONCLUSION

5.1. FINDINGS
• Majority 46.1% of the respondents are Female.
• Majority 65.7 % of the respondents belong to the age group of 21-35 category.
• Majority 41.2% of the respondents belongs to UG educational qualification.
• Majority 46% of the respondents is Below 20,000.
• Majority 62.7 % of the respondents were unmarried.
• Majority 44.1% of the respondents from the Occasionly.
• Majority 40.2% of the respondents belongs to Neutral.
• Majority 45.1% of the respondents said that training is the most effective way of
fair of accuracy of the products received compared to what you ordered.
• Majority 65.7% of the respondents agree that they products usually purchase
through online.
• Majority 57.8% of the respondents agree that the availability of products you were
looking for the in the E-commerce store.
• Majority 46.1% of the respondents agree that the e-commerce website or
application.
• Majority 50%of the respondents agree that the satisfied with the quality of
products.
• Majority 61 % of the respondents have typically contact customer service for
assistance.
• Majority 37.3%% of the respondents agree that the company packaging quality of
the products ensured that they arrived in perfect condition.
• Majority 51% of the respondents agree that employees are refund the policies by
our e-commerce platforms.
• Majority 48% of the respondents agree that the goods were handled with care in
our e-commerce survey.

58
• Majority 35.3% is Reasonable of the respondents agreed that do you feel about
online delivery charges.
• Majority 35.3% of the respondents have satisfaction level towards e-commerce
warehousing.

5.2. SUGGESTIONS
• Gather information about the e-commerce business, including the types of products sold,
order volume, peak seasons, and future growth projections.
• Identify any existing warehousing challenges or pain points.
• Evaluate the current warehousing processes, from receiving and storage to picking,
packing, and shipping.
• Stay informed about industry best practices in e-commerce warehousing.
• Explore case studies of successful e-commerce businesses with efficient warehousing
systems.
• Propose a warehouse layout that optimizes the flow of products and minimizes travel time
for warehouse staff.
• Suggest the implementation of data analytics tools to gain insights into warehouse
performance and make data-driven decisions for continuous improvement.

5.3. CONCLUSION
• The implementation of advanced inventory tracking systems has successfully minimized
stockouts and overstock situations, contributing to a more efficient and cost-effective
warehouse operation.
• Improving e-commerce shipping and warehousing procedures is no longer merely a wise
strategic move it is now an absolute requirement.
• The competitive nature of the market demands that businesses prioritize the optimization
of warehousing and shipping.
• They neglect this imperative risk losing their competitive edge and facing challenges in
sustaining their market positions.

59
• E-commerce has a lot of potential in store for those who are willing to take advantage of
it.
• For those who can successfully negotiate the shifting terrain, the changing landscape
presents opportunities for innovation, growth, and market leadership.

REFERENCES
• The Role of Data Warehousing in the Infrastructure of E-Commerce-Dr. Saini Akhilesh
online published on 30th Jan 2023.
• Warehousing and Facility Location in E-Commerce. chandrima bhattachariya,
saumya Saurabh(Published on 30th may 2021)
• An efficient scattered storage assignment algorithm with bulky locations-Mengya
Liu, Kim Leng Poh (Received 20 December 2021, Revised 18 February 2023,
Accepted 4 April 2023, Available online 8 April 2023, Version of Record 16 May
2023).
• Order-Picking Efficiency in E-Commerce Warehouses-Yi Li, Ruining
Zhang(Received: 16 October 2022 / Revised: 17 November 2022 / Accepted: 2
December 2022 / Published: 7 December 2022).
• E-commerce supply chain network design using on-demand warehousing system
under uncertainty-Junhyeok Lee, Changseong Ko (Received 02 May 2022,
Accepted 14 Sep 2022, Published online: 06 Oct 2022).
• Optimal Picking Policies in E-Commerce Warehouses-Maximilian Schiffer, Nils
Boysen, Patrick S. Klein (published in online 24th march 2022)
• Product location, allocation and server home base location for an order picking line
with multiple servers-Elizabeth Jewkes (Available online 2 April 2003)
• Research on warehouse operation: A comprehensive review-Jinxiang Gu(Received
17 March 2005, Accepted 12 February 2006, Available online 13 January 2011).
• Increasing order picking efficiency by integrating storage, batching, zone picking,
and routing policy decisions-Teun van Gils(Received 14 June 2016, Revised 22
November 2017, Accepted 23 November 2017, Available online 2 December 2017,
Version of Record 6 February 2018).

60
• Risk control for staff planning in e-commerce warehouses-Susanne wruck (8th june
2016 and online published in 19th july 2016).
• Evaluating the benefits of picking and packing planning integration in e-commerce
warehouses-Shuya Zhong ,Vaggelis Giannikas,Jorge Merino (Received 25
September 2020, Accepted 24 September 2021, Available online 2 October 2021,
Version of Record 23 March 2022).
• Order batch picking optimization under different storage scenarios for e-commerce
warehouses-Peng Yang(Received 10 June 2019, Revised 15 January 2020, Accepted
22 February 2020, Available online 9 March 2020, Version of Record 9 March
2020).
• A reverse logistics network design-Ali Diabat (Received 31 March 2014, Revised
18 February 2015, Accepted 19 February 2015, Available online 4 April 2015,
Version of Record 9 December 2015).
• A multi objective optimization model for sustainable reverse logistics in Indian E-
commerce market-Pankaj Dutta(Received 16 February 2019, Revised 14 November
2019, Accepted 16 November 2019, Available online 18 November 2019, Version
of Record 17 January 2020).
• Application of Data Analysis in Warehouse Optimization and Customer
Segmentation- Minghao Gong (17 February 2022).
• A Visualization Approach for Monitoring Order Processing in E-Commerce
Warehouse-Boyang Xie,Yuhua Zhou(01 October 2021).
• Improving order-picking performance by converting a sequential zone-picking line
into a zone-picking network-Ying-Chin Ho(Received 14 February 2017, Revised 3
September 2017, Accepted 11 September 2017, Available online 12 September
2017, Version of Record 25 September 2017).
• Design and control of warehouse order picking-René de Koster(Received 29 August
2005, Accepted 17 July 2006, Available online 13 January 2011).
• Picker routing in rectangular mixed shelves warehouses-Felix Weidinger(Received
18 August 2016, Revised 9 January 2018, Accepted 22 March 2018, Available
online 26 March 2018, Version of Record 3 April 2018).

61
• A B2C e-commerce intelligent system for re-engineering the e-order fulfilment
process-K.H.Leung(Received 30 May 2017, Revised 25 July 2017, Accepted 9
September 2017, Available online 11 September 2017, Version of Record 5 October
2017).

62
ANNEXURE – QUESTIONNAIRE
A STUDY ON E-COMMERCE WAREHOUSING

Email

1. Name
2. Gender
a. Male
b. Female
3. Age Groups
a. Below 20 years
b. 21-35 years
c. 36-50 years
d. Above 50 years

4. Marital status
a. Married
b. Unmarried

5. What is your Employment Status?


a. Student
b. Under graduate
c. Postgraduate
d. Higher studies
6. Describe your Average Monthly Income.
a. Below 20,000
b. 20,000-40,0000
c. 40,000-60,000
d. Above 60,000

7. How Frequently do you shop online.


a. Rarely

63
b. Occasionly
c. Frequently
d. Very Frequently

8. What type of products do you usually purchases through online.


a. Electronics
b. Clothing and Fashions
c. Home and kitchen Appliances
d. Beauty and personal care
e. Groceries.

9. Which Demographic group made the most purchases on e-commerce platform

a. Men b. Women c. Others.

10. How would rate for the satisfaction level towards e-commerce warehousing.
(a). 10
(b). 9
(c). 8
(d). 7
(e). 6
(f). 5
(g). 4
(h). 3
(i). 2
(j). 1

64
S.no Satisfaction with the Very Dissatisfied Neutral Satisfied Very
organization and Dissatisfied satisfied
working atmosphere
11 How satisfied are you
with the speed of
delivery for products
purchased online.
12 How do you typically
contact customer
service for assistance

A Waiting Time
B Support staff
knowledge

Are you satisfied with


C current compensation
13 How the packaging
quality of products
ensured that they
arrived in perfect
condition.
S.NO Satisfaction with Very Poor Poor Neutral Good Excellent
learning and
educational
opportunities
14
How would you rate the
availability of products
you were looking for in
the e-commerce store
15 How would you rate the
accuracy of the
products received
compared to what you
ordered.

65
S.NO Not user Somewhat Moderately Extremely NIL
friendly user friendly user friendly user
friendly
Satisfaction with
their jobs
16 How user friendly do
you find the e-
commerce website or
application.
S.no Not handled Handled Handled with Handled Handled
with care with moderate with good with
Satisfaction with minimal care clear care exceptional
their Jobs care
17 Indicate whether the
goods were handled
with care in our e-
commerce survey.
S.NO Not clear at Slightly Moderately Very clear Extremely
Satisfaction with
all clear clear clear
their jobs
18 How clear do you
find the refund
policies by our e-
commerce platforms.
S.NO Satisfaction with Too Somewhat Reasonable Affordable Excellent
their jobs expensive expensive value for
money

19 How do you feel


about online delivery
charges

66

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