Distribution center math just became simple. According to Mike Kotecki, senior vice president at Milwaukee-based HK Systems Inc., five technologies have the potential to deliver a return on investment within two years. His picks are (1) transportation management software, which provides the most cost-effective ways to transport goods; (2) automated lift trucks, which offer both labor savings and longevity; (3) robotic palletizing, resulting in lower error rates, less need for labor, and floor space savings; (4) high-speed sortation, for flexibility, reduced labor costs, and less product damage; and (5) simulation tools, which help you test “what if” scenarios and avoid costly mistakes. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to buy an ROI analysis tool to see how you’re doing.