Handheld computers are valuable for more than inventory management and data capture
Many companies acquire rugged mobile computers to use in inventory management and warehouse/logistics applications. That makes sense, because integrated data capture / barcode scanning capabilities allow your team to use mobile computers to pick orders and receive shipments. With better inventory management, the company can track inventory levels in real time, reduce stock discrepancies and prevent overstock or shortages.
However, if that’s all your company uses handhelds for, you are missing out on high-value opportunities…
Additional Tasks for Your Handheld Computers
1. Communication and Collaboration
Communication is a constant challenge in almost all organizations. In large facilities, workers can waste substantial amounts of time seeking one another out, or trying to find task-critical information which may be held by a teammate. For remote workers required to carry multiple devices (for example, a handheld scanner and a cell phone), the company must acquire and support more devices than necessary.
Did you know that the same mobile device used for data capture and inventory management is also capable of communications? Mobile computers can function as two-way radios or messaging devices, enabling instant communication between warehouse workers, drivers, and supervisors. This helps streamline coordination, reduce errors, and improve response times to issues.
Options are available for devices which offer cellular, as well as messaging and video capabilities. Software products such as Zebra Workforce Connect and Honeywell Smart Talk make it easy to add secure communications ability to both your in-house and remote devices.
2. Quality Control and Inspections
What happens when quality issues are discovered? Instead of relying on paper-based checklists, your team can report damaged goods and document findings with cameras. They can capture photos, log data, and integrate with quality management systems. This allows your team to get the right information to the right people to avoid customer impact.
3. Electronic Forms
Most organizations are riddle with paper forms and clipboards, to the extent that management may not even have a complete list of all in use. Paper forms are prone to error and incorrect use, and any data to be gleaned only comes after form data is manually transcribed into a spreadsheet. As opposed to paper forms, electronic forms allow you to capture data immediately, at the source, and immediately direct it to the correct place. The mobile computers which you already have in use for other tasks can easily become data capture stations. CSSI can help you by designing electronic forms and integrating with your systems.
4. GPS and Route Optimization
In logistics and fleet management, mobile computers with GPS capabilities help optimize delivery routes, track shipments in transit, and provide drivers with real-time navigation. This reduces fuel costs and improves on-time deliveries. There’s no need to pay for additional mobile devices or take the security risk of using your employees’ personal phones. The same device you are using to track deliveries and receipts can also be used for routing and directions.
5. For Management: Employee Visibility and Productivity
With device management tools, such as mobile device management (MDM), or authentication software (Zebra Identity Guardian), managers can gain visibility into the whereabouts and activities of both devices and team members. Reduce your device losses, ensure devices are charged and ready for service, and provide remote support to employees who require it.
Learn how to Implement High Value Workflows Using Your Rugged Mobile Computers
The handheld computer can be much more than a data capture device. Contact CSSI to discuss the additional value you can get from your technology investment by using your mobile devices for additional tasks.