The wool selling process combines complex inbound and outbound logistics, warehouse management, testing, storage, auction administration, payments and financial reconciliation within a highly regulated and time-critical industry. Data Effects (under its Lumient Software brand) developed the software platform that powers Elders' highly automated wool processing and warehousing facility, integrating every stage from receival and testing through to sale and shipment. In a 35,000 m2 warehouse with 22 Autonomous robots storing wool in 14 metre high racks, Data Effects' software oversees the entire process.
Collaborators
This project was delivered in collaboration with the Elders, Lumient, E80, BJ Scarletts and key industry bodies including the Australia Wool Testing Authority (AWTA) and the Australia Wool Exchange (AWEX)
The Challenge
Elders required a platform capable of coordinating robotic storage systems, warehouse operations, industry testing workflows and sales processes while maintaining complete traceability of every wool bale and supporting integration with key industry organisations.
The system needed to manage the movement of wool through multiple operational stages, from receival and lotting through to testing, storage, sale and dispatch, while ensuring real-time visibility across the facility. At the same time, it was necessary to seamlessly exchange information with external organisations such as the Australian Wool Testing Authority (AWTA) and the Australian Wool Exchange (AWEX) for certification and sales processes to occur efficiently within a highly regulated and time-sensitive operating environment.
Our Solution
Data Effects developed a fully integrated warehouse management and automation platform to support the operation of Elders' automated wool warehousing facilities. The system was designed to coordinate wool receival, lotting, test sample collection, robotic handling systems, sales processes, dispatch and financial reporting through a single connected platform. By integrating industrial automation equipment with custom-developed business systems, the platform provides real-time monitoring and control of warehouse activities. Every wool bale / folio can be tracked throughout its journey within the facility and the visibility of all key warehouse resources and actiivites allows for continual system optimisation to meet the needs of the highly dynamic nature of the wool business. The solution was engineered for reliability, scalability and seamless integration with enterprise systems, creating a connected digital environment that supports both day-to-day operations and long-term business growth.
The Impact
Beyond delivering operational improvements, the project has demonstrated how advanced software engineering can transform traditional agricultural supply chains. By connecting industrial automation, enterprise business systems and industry services into a unified digital platform, Data Effects helped establish a new benchmark for automation, traceability and supply chain performance within the Australian wool industry.