What are ready-to-use indicators?

Ready-to-use indicators are small cards which contain temperature-sensitive areas which provide a visual signal triggered by environmental conditions. For example, a mark may change color if the temperature exceeds a certain threshold, or a different mark may appear if freezing conditions have been encountered. Indicator cards are available in various configurations, each intended to provide useful information in certain shipment workflows.

Ready to use indicators are one of several varieties of environmental sensors available from CSSI which prevent the consumption of unsafe foods or medicine. End-users benefit from improved confidence in the quality of the items received, and thereby improve their opinion of your brand.

What types of ready-to-use indicators are available?

Indicators are available in a variety of configurations, each intended to report on specific environmental situations:

1. Heat indicators
2. Freeze indicators
3. Shipment temperature indicators
4. Food temperature indicators
5. Blood temperature indicators

This indicator cards require no batteries or power. They work through the application of certain chemicals or inks which are affected by temperature. CSSI is able to help you find or specify the right type of indicator for your application.

What are great applications for ready-to-use indicators?

Ready-to-use indicators are ideal for situations where you need to provide assurance that acceptable temperature ranges are maintained for items during shipping or handling, particularly if there is a high volume of such items which make the cost per unit important. These indicator cards are disposable and inexpensive, so they are suited for one-way trips and customer shipments. Indicators are great for all situations where you need to ensure that food or medicine is properly handled after it leaves your direct control.

Some typical applications might include:

• Shipment of frozen food
• Shipment of temperature-sensitive food or medicine
• Handling of blood samples for which proper temperatures must be maintained

Contact CSSI to discuss ready-to-use indicators

Complete the form to connect with CSSI for a conversation on ready-to-use indicators. We are able to provide you with samples for testing, and ensure that you specify the right type of card for your application.

CSSI is a Reliable Source for Quality Labels & Print Supplies

Honeywell recently announced that it was closing its print supplies business effective in Q2, 2024. Honeywell has been a long-time significantly supplier of labels, tags, and print supplies, so this announcement means that many companies will have to find new suppliers for these items. In particular, companies which have custom or specialized labels and tags will need to act quickly to ensure that samples from new supplies can be qualified.

The last day to place an order for products is November 17, 2023. Full Honeywell media closure will occur by Q2 2024. We recommend planning ahead to avoid supply shortages.

For any current CSSI customers affected by this change, CSSI is already working on alternate supplies for any Honeywell products you source through us, and we have likely already been in touch with you. Our team will be contacting you to discuss alternative suppliers and arrange any necessary testing with you. We will then work with you through the transition to the new supplier.

CSSI Is a Print Supplies Expert

CSSI has years of experience providing thermal printers as well as labels and print supplies. We have always worked with a range of the industry’s top consumables suppliers. If you are in need of a reliable source for supplies due to the Honeywell media closure, please contact us to review options for labels, tags, receipt media, wristbands, ribbons, and more.

In an age where the global pharmaceutical industry is expanding and becoming increasingly complex, ensuring the safety and integrity of the drug supply chain has become a paramount concern. To address these concerns, the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DCSA) was enacted, aiming to enhance the security and traceability of prescription drugs across the United States. This article delves into the key aspects of the DCSA, its implementation, benefits, and the preparedness required from drug manufacturers and pharmacists.

The November 2023 compliance deadline is rapidly approaching, so now is the time to take action to ensure your compliance.

1. What is the Drug Supply Chain Security Act, or DCSA?

The Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DCSA) is a piece of legislation signed into law by the United States Congress in 2013 as part of the Drug Quality and Security Act. The primary objective of the DCSA is to establish a comprehensive system for tracing and verifying the authenticity of prescription drugs as they move through the supply chain, from manufacturers to patients.

2. Why is the DCSA being implemented?

The implementation of the DCSA is a response to the growing threat of counterfeit, adulterated, and stolen pharmaceutical products infiltrating the legitimate drug supply chain. These illicit activities not only jeopardize patient safety but also undermine the integrity of the pharmaceutical industry. By implementing the DCSA, the government aims to ensure that patients receive safe and effective medications while maintaining the credibility of the pharmaceutical supply chain.

3. When is the DCSA being implemented, and who is affected by it?

The DCSA implementation occurred in phases, with full compliance expected by 2023. The act impacts all entities involved in the distribution of prescription drugs, including manufacturers, wholesalers, repackagers, and dispensers. This encompasses a wide range of stakeholders, from large pharmaceutical corporations to local pharmacies, all of whom must adhere to the new regulations to maintain compliance.

4. What are the five top benefits of the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DCSA)?

Enhanced Patient Safety

The DCSA’s robust traceability system allows for rapid identification and mitigation of potentially unsafe or counterfeit drugs, minimizing the risks to patient health.

Improved Supply Chain Traceability

The act mandates the use of unique identifiers and barcodes, enabling stakeholders to track products at every step of the supply chain, reducing the likelihood of diversion or counterfeit products entering the market.

Efficient Recalls

In the event of a product recall, the DCSA facilitates swift and accurate identification of affected lots, helping manufacturers and distributors remove potentially harmful products from circulation more effectively.

Reduced Counterfeit Drugs

The DCSA’s stringent requirements make it harder for counterfeiters to infiltrate the supply chain, thereby protecting both patients and the industry from the detrimental effects of counterfeit drugs.

Preservation of Industry Integrity

By establishing a transparent and secure supply chain, the DCSA maintains consumer trust in pharmaceutical products and the businesses that produce and distribute them.

5. What do Drug Manufacturers and Pharmacists need to do to comply with the DCSA?

Both drug manufacturers and pharmacists play pivotal roles in ensuring compliance with the DCSA. Manufacturers are required to affix product identifiers, such as serial numbers and barcodes, on individual drug packages. They must also provide transaction information, history, and statements to wholesale distributors, ensuring the traceability of products.

Pharmacists, on the other hand, need to verify the legitimacy of drug products before dispensing them to patients. They should be well-versed in handling serialized drug packages and understanding the transaction history associated with the products they dispense. Training and education are crucial for pharmacists to seamlessly integrate DCSA requirements into their daily operations.

6. How can CSSI help with DCSA compliance?

DCSA compliance will require both manufacturers and pharmacies to have reliable, quality barcode scanners or RFID readers on hand. CSSI is the leading source for scanner guns and RFID systems from top manufacturers such as Zebra Technologies. Not just a source for equipment, CSSI can assist you in configuring, deploying, and maintaining these devices throughout their lifecycle.

CSSI can also provide quality barcode label printers and label stock to enable on-demand printing of product labels.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Drug Supply Chain Security Act represents a significant stride towards safeguarding the pharmaceutical supply chain and patient well-being. By mandating stricter traceability and accountability measures, the DCSA brings numerous benefits, from heightened patient safety to industry-wide integrity. Manufacturers and pharmacists must proactively familiarize themselves with the requirements of the act to ensure a seamless transition to a more secure and trustworthy drug supply chain. As the DCSA continues to roll out, its positive impacts on patient health and the pharmaceutical industry’s reputation are poised to be realized.

Contact CSSI for DCSA compliance help

To discuss your needs for Drug Supply Chain Security Act compliance, please contact CSSI

Special Alert: Customer Challenges When Implementing Android 11 Devices

CSSI Technologies has recently encountered numerous customers who have run into major challenges when attempting to deploy mobile computers running Android 11. These customers discover that applications which have worked with prior versions of Android suddenly will not function.

This problem can occur either when attempting to deploy newly purchased Android 11 devices, or even when older devices return from a manufacturer repair depot upgraded to Android 11, as commonly occurs.

Even if you have not yet upgraded to Android 11 devices, this issue is still relevant to you… because you will face it when you eventually upgrade.

The Android 11 Problem

The root issue results from Google’s implementation of ‘scoped storage’. This is a security measure which changes the way apps can store and access files on a device, with the goal of protecting the privacy of app and user data. Scoped storage was originally introduced with Android 10, but new enhancements delivered with Android 11 enforce greater data protection and have played havoc with some companies’ operations.

Typical issues and questions associated with an Android 11 / scoped storage issue:

1. Why won’t my provisioning barcodes work on my Android 11 devices?
2. Why are my device’s configurations no longer working on my Android 11 devices?
3. Why are my MDM deployment packages not working on my Android devices?
4. Why won’t my WMS application work on my Android 11 devices.
5. What new firmware works with my current applications?

Scoped storage is a new Android reality and will be present in future OS versions. So, companies which might skip Android 11 will still encounter it in 13 and beyond.

Working the Scoped Storage Problem With CSSI

The CSSI team has recently worked with numerous companies to solve the scoped storage challenge. We have developed a number of configuration and upgrade methodologies which have enabled customers to get back up and running. We are well-prepared to help you resolve your own Android 11 issues.

Consider the following recent case study…

Case Study – Android 11 Fixed

A major industrial manufacturer with a broadly distributed fleet of mobile devices managed with SOTI MobiControl (MDM) asked CSSI for help. Device configurations had been stable for some time, but when attempting to deploy new handhelds, critical applications would suddenly not work. CSSI researched the issue and determined that it was caused by configurations which would not work under Android 11, the OS installed on the recently purchased devices.

CSSI’s technical team examined the customer’s deployment environment and designed Zebra StageNow and SOTI MobiControl profiles which successfully worked around the issue. This customer is now able to run Android 11 devices side by side with devices on older versions of Android and is prepared for future Android updates as well.

Contact CSSI To Prepare for Android 11

Whether you are already experiencing issues, or are planning to upgrade to new devices, you are welcome to contact CSSI to discuss your configuration. We can help you to determine what issues you will experience with Android 11 and develop a plan to proactively resolve the problem. To learn more, please contact CSSI Technologies.

As of May 2023, Zebra has discontinued support for its long-time workhorse Xi4 industrial printer. This means that support and replacement parts are no longer available. If you are one of the many companies utilizing the Xi4, it’s time to update to a newer model so that you don’t risk unplanned downtime.

Best Upgrade Option for Zebra Xi4

Our recommended upgrade option for the Xi4 is the ZT600 family of industrial printers. The ZT600 is packed with Zebra’s latest innovations and brings the performance and durability you require to support your label printing operations. With the help of Zebra’s trade-in program, you can also save up to $350 per printer when you upgrade!

Contact CSSI to Demo the ZT600 Series

Please complete the form at right to setup your demo of the powerful ZT600 series printers. CSSI is able to assist your upgrade process with our Zebra product line expertise and money-saving Zebra trade-in rebates which are available if you act soon.

Opportunities & Challenges of Wearables in the Warehouse

Warehouse leaders searching for productivity gains and operational efficiency are increasingly turning to the wearable computer and products such as Zebra WS50 wearable computer due to significant increases in worker output. To learn more about the specific benefits of this technology, check out our related article on the top 6 ways wearables can improve warehouse productivity .

However, wearable computers also require some advance thought and planning. How will workflows need to change, and are there software updates necessary to effectively use the wearable devices?

Zebra WS50 – How To Make the Most of a Smaller Screen

The Zebra WS50 wearable computer is revolutionary in that it is not just a wrist mount or hand mount barcode scanner… the WS50 is a fully functional Android mobile computer. The benefit is that the user does not need to carry 2 devices – you gain single device simplicity – even allowing for communication capabilities. However, in order to take full advantage of the WS50, the company must adapt its software to fit on the smaller screen.

Good news, particularly if your company utilizes telnet/TE and ‘green screens’ on your mobile computer devices… you have a significant opportunity to make multiple workflow and interface improvements. Here’s a demo of the Zebra WS50 running TE workflows, but presenting a full-color touch interface specifically designed for the small screen:

Customizing Telnet Screens for the Zebra Technologies WS50

Which of the screens below are more user friendly, and more adapted to the requirements of a wearable computer user? Many companies are reluctant to upgrade these screens because of the time and expense required to upgrade back-end systems such as the AS/400.

However, CSSI can change device interfaces with no impact whatsoever to the back-end system! Our solution resides entirely on the mobile device itself.

The true power is unlocked when steps and keystrokes can be removed from a workflow with intelligent mobile screens. The result is reduction of wasted motion, improved user ergonomics, fewer errors, and faster training!

Contact CSSI to Discuss the Zebra WS50 Wearable Computer

The WS50 is much more than a ring scanner. It can improve task worker output and boost your operational efficiency. Set up your personal demo of the WS50 and discuss CSSI’s ability to customize mobile screens for your business. We would be happy to arrange a demo unit for you to try in your operation. Please contact us to get started today.

Reduce Training Time and Improve Productivity in Multi-Lingual Warehouses

Warehouses which utilize mobile devices running telnet/TE (the ‘green screen’) have for some time been able to take advantage of CSSI’s screen modernization capabilities, which enable users to take convert old-style green screens to modern touch-sensitive screens without touching complex back-end systems.

Now, we can take it even further… warehouses are diverse work environments. In many businesses, non-english or non-native-english speakers comprise a majority of employees. This complicates training, slows down workers, and has quality control implications.

CSSI can create alternate sets of screens which enable your workers to interact in their preferred language… and this can be done without impacting your back-end systems!

Imagine how much easier it would be to onboard non-native english speaking employees if they were able to interact with handheld computers in their native language!

Here are some side-by-side examples of english/spanish screens. We can customize your screens to suit your preferences and needs:

Contact CSSI to discuss the possibilities unlocked by screen modernization and multi-lingual screen tools.

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.

CSSI Technologies is pleased to announce the addition of Bob Carter as account manager, covering the Southeast US (VA, NC, SC, GA, and FL). Bob is an experienced AIDC and enterprise mobility veteran, and brings a wealth of experience and insight to CSSI customers.

“We are thrilled to be able to extend CSSI’s quality customer support and capabilities to a broader geography with the addition of Bob Carter”, according to CSSI president Joe Tosolt. “We look forward to powering the productivity of warehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing floors, and transportation/logistics businesses throughout the southeast US.”

Contact CSSI to discuss your requirements and opportunities with Bob!

Modern Business Moves Beyond the Clipboard

As we continue to witness a digital revolution, businesses are increasingly moving away from traditional paper-based processes to digital alternatives. One significant area where this shift is taking place is in the conversion of paper forms to digital forms. Paper forms are easy to create, but create a time-consuming burden, and in the end are riddled with errors, omissions, and the need to be manually re-keyed into a computer to be of any value.

Here are the Top Five Benefits of Converting Paper Forms to Digital

1. Digital Forms Offer Increased Efficiency

Converting paper forms to digital forms significantly enhances the efficiency of business processes. Unlike paper forms, digital forms eliminate the need for manual data entry, which can be time-consuming and error-prone. With digital forms, data is captured and stored electronically, making it easy to search, retrieve, and analyze. Moreover, digital forms can be easily accessed by authorized personnel from anywhere, at any time, improving overall workflow and reducing the time required to complete tasks.

2. Digital Forms Can Reduce Costs

Converting paper forms to digital forms can save businesses a considerable amount of money. Paper forms require printing, storage, and shipping, which can be expensive. Additionally, manual data entry can result in errors that require time and resources to correct. Digital forms eliminate the need for printing, storage, and shipping, and the risk of human error is significantly reduced. This results in cost savings for businesses, especially in the long term.

3. Digital Forms Enhance Security

Digital forms offer better security than paper forms. Digital forms can be encrypted, password-protected, and accessed only by authorized personnel, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access, theft, or loss. Additionally, digital forms can be backed up regularly, ensuring that data is not lost due to hardware or software failure.

4. Digital Forms Improve Customer Experience

Digital forms offer a better customer experience than paper forms. With digital forms, customers can complete and submit forms online, eliminating the need to visit physical locations. Digital forms can also be designed to be user-friendly, with prompts and guidance to assist customers in completing them correctly. Moreover, digital forms can be integrated with other business systems, such as customer relationship management (CRM) software, providing a seamless and personalized experience for customers.

5. Digital Forms Enable Better Data Analysis

Digital forms provide better data analysis capabilities than paper forms. With digital forms, data is captured and stored electronically, making it easy to search, retrieve, and analyze. This enables businesses to identify patterns, trends, and insights that can inform decision-making and improve business operations. Additionally, digital forms can be integrated with analytics tools, such as business intelligence software, to provide real-time data analysis and reporting.

Technology To Deliver Digital Forms

CSSI can create a complete digital form solution for you. Our development team can digitize your paper forms, and our hardware experts can specify rugged tablet PCs or handheld computers for your team. We start with a review of your current processes and requirements, and then put together a complete solution to meet your needs.

See how CSSI used digital forms to improve a manufacturer’s delivery operation:

Say No To Paper, Yes To Digital

In conclusion, converting paper forms to digital forms offers significant benefits to businesses. It improves efficiency, reduces costs, enhances security, improves the customer experience, and provides better data analysis capabilities. By embracing digital forms, businesses can streamline their operations, improve their decision-making capabilities, and gain a competitive advantage in today’s fast-paced business environment.

Contact CSSI To Create Digital Forms

If you are ready to create digital forms to improve your operation, contact the team at CSSI. Our experts can review your paper forms and propose a fast and effective digital migration. Contact us today.