Creating a Connected Workforce

Workers in each area of the warehouse can benefit from connected devices.  Most notably is worker productivity.  The ability to get information quickly and respond or complete tasks faster and with fewer errors mean workflows will go more smoothly.  This includes worker safety, particularly with hands-free connected devices.  Some examples of functional area improvements include the following:

Receiving

• Decrease data entry errors
• Improve dock-to-stock cycle time
• Fast, accurate scanning of incoming shipments
• Overall cost savings

Putaway & Replenishment

• Optimize vehicle-based workflows
• Improve forklift operator efficiency
• Increase accuracy
• Higher rate of productivity

Picking

• Greater picking accuracy
• Less fatigue for workers
• Increase capacity
• Reduce cycle time

Cycle Counting & Inventory

• Control labor costs
• Real-time visibility
• Increase efficiency
• Improve worker safety

Packing & Shipping

• Ability to increase capacity
• On-time shipments
• Fewer errors
• Minimize returns

Which Connected Devices are Best for the Warehouse?

Users want devices that allow them to be mobile, provide access the network and related business applications, and communicate with colleagues.   Industrial bar code printers, mobile computers and industrial bar code scanners are the most popular devices used by warehouse, manufacturing and DC (distribution center) employees today.

Other connected devices used in these environments are voice-enabled devices, tablets and vehicle mounted computers.  All of this technology is designed to give users the flexibility they need to move freely throughout the work area, to be able to access the necessary information they need to perform tasks and to stand up to the rigors of a full-shift workload.

Ideal Devices for Connected Workers

The Honeywell Dolphin™ CN80 is an ultra-rugged mobile computer built for the rigors of the warehouse.  This handheld combines a traditional keyboard with a super-reliable touchscreen that works well in the warehouse or out in the field for ease of use.  The CN80 is an Android™ device, built on the Mobility Edge™ platform, and enables a long device cycle with support through 5 Android generations.

The Honeywell CK75 is a mobile computer with a dual operating system, ideal for applications where Windows is still the primary OS, but plans to migrate to Android OS are expected before extended support for Windows comes to an end. The CK75 is 30% lighter and smaller than others in its class, and is a user-friendly mobile handheld ideal for a variety of workers and work styles.

Intelligent Wearables
Cutting edge devices are quickly becoming popular, with some hands-free solutions incorporating technology using augmented reality, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and mobility software. The RealWear HMT-1Z1™ hands-free wearable computer with Honeywell’s Movilizer platform, an industry leading, cloud-based workflow solution, supports rugged field service operations, specifically in hazardous locations.

Connected Devices: The Stats
It’s one thing to talk about all the benefits that mobile devices do for the workforce, but it’s quite another to see the actual ROI from users that have made great gains with this technology. For example:

1. Many organizations have realized as much as 45% in labor and other cost savings
2. Productivity gains have been as high as 90% simply by interleaving cycle counting and picking

Small changes in technology result in huge savings for companies.  Savings come in the form of labor as well as a reduction in returns and lost business due to errors, shipment delays, stockouts and more.

If you’re ready to learn what today’s technology can do for your business, contact us to schedule a warehouse walk-thru or just a Q&A with one of our solution specialists.

4136B Jersey Pike, Chattanooga, TN 37421

Phone (423) 855-1822 | Fax (423) 499-6317

sales@barcominc.com