In today’s fast-paced warehouse environments, efficiency and productivity are key to meeting customer demands and optimizing operations. One technology that continues to emerge as a warehouse game-changer is that of ‘wearables’. Wearable devices include mobile computers and barcode scanners worn by the user, typically on the arm, hand, or fingers, or smart glasses worn by the worker. Wearables provide workers with hands-free access to crucial information, enabling them to perform critical warehouse tasks faster and more accurately.
Wondering about the specific benefits of wearable technology for the warehouse and how you can justify the investment for your business?
Top 6 Ways Wearable Technology Improves Warehouse Worker Productivity
1. Improved Order Picking Efficiency:
The need for improved output from warehouse workers is the most common reason for adapting wearable scanners and computers. Order picking is a critical and time-consuming task in warehouse operations, and wearable technology significantly enhances this process. By displaying order details and optimal picking paths directly on the wearable device, workers can efficiently navigate the warehouse, reducing travel time and optimizing the sequence of picking tasks. This augmented visibility helps minimize errors, boost accuracy, and ultimately improve order fulfillment speed.
2. Real-Time Access to Information:
Traditionally, warehouse workers had to refer to paperwork or walk to fixed computer terminals to access essential data. Wearable technology eliminates this limitation by providing real-time access to information right at the worker’s fingertips. Workers can instantly retrieve inventory data, order details, and picking instructions, enhancing their decision-making capabilities and minimizing errors caused by miscommunication.
3. Ergonomic Advantages:
In high-volume environments, wearable tech will make an impact. Warehouse wearables offer ergonomic benefits by eliminating the need for workers to carry heavy handheld devices or frequently reach for fixed computer terminals. By integrating technology directly into wearable devices, workers can perform tasks more comfortably and efficiently. A wearable barcode scanner or computer provides an ergonomic advantage which minimizes fatigue, reduces the risk of repetitive strain injuries, and enhances overall worker well-being. Time studies show that saving just 2-3 seconds per transaction will have an outsize impact when tasks are performed hundreds of times per day (or more!).
4. Streamlined Inventory Management:
Wearable technology, when equipped with barcode scanning capabilities, revolutionizes inventory management. With these devices, workers can scan items effortlessly by simply pointing their fingers at barcodes, eliminating the need for handheld scanners. This streamlines the inventory counting process, reduces errors, and saves valuable time. Also, it can increase compliance with processes by making it easier for the worker.
5. Faster Training and Onboarding Assistance:
Wearable technology can be instrumental in training new warehouse employees or facilitating onboarding processes. By providing step-by-step visual instructions on the wearable device, workers can quickly learn complex tasks, reducing training time and minimizing errors. This technology serves as a virtual mentor, ensuring consistency and accuracy in the execution of various warehouse processes.
Products such as Zebra’s WS50 Android Wearable Computer enable voice-communication in addition to scanning and computer access.
6. Adaptability and Scalability:
Another advantage of wearable technology is its adaptability and scalability to different users and warehouse environments. These devices can be easily integrated with existing warehouse management systems, making them compatible with various workflows and processes. Additionally, as businesses grow and evolve, wearable technology can scale to accommodate changing needs, ensuring long-term productivity gains.
Ready To Look at Wearables?
Wearable technology has emerged as a transformative tool in the warehouse industry, empowering workers with instant access to critical information, optimizing workflows, and boosting overall productivity. From streamlining inventory management and order picking to improving communication and training processes, these devices have the potential to revolutionize the way warehouses operate. As technology continues to advance, embracing wearable devices in warehouse environments will undoubtedly become a key factor in achieving operational excellence and maintaining a competitive
Contact CSSI To Demo Wearable Computers
Ready to pursue warehouse automation and find a wearable computer which can help your team gain increased productivity? Contact the scanning and mobile computing experts at CSSI to arrange a demo of wearable scanners or computers which can make a fast impact on your team’s warehouse efficiency. We will assess your needs, and set up a hands-on demonstration for your team.