Implementing Wearable Computers: Getting More from the Zebra WS50
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.
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.
As technology continues to advance, businesses are turning to automated systems to improve operations and efficiency. Aside from the very familiar barcode, two additional popular technologies in the world of automated systems are RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) and RTLS (Real Time Location System). While these technologies may appear to be interchangeable, they have distinct differences that can significantly impact their effectiveness in various applications.
It’s not uncommon for us at CSSI to be contacted for help with RFID projects, which turn out to be better served by RTLS. We thought it would be helpful to discuss the differences and pros and cons of each.
Why is there confusion about the difference between RFID and RTLS?
The confusion between RFID and RTLS arises from the fact that they share similarities in how they operate. Both technologies use radio waves to communicate information and have applications in asset tracking and inventory management. Additionally, RFID and RTLS devices can be used to track the location of assets or personnel. However, the fundamental differences lie in their underlying technology, purpose, and functionality. It’s important to understand the differences so that you select the optimal technology for your need.
What technologies do RFID and RTLS use, and how are they different?
An RFID system uses tags or transponders that emit a radio signal to a reader, which then captures the signal and transmits it to a computer for processing. Each RFID tag contains unique identification codes that are used to identify individual items, and the tag can be passive or active. Passive RFID tags are energized by the reader’s signal and do not require a battery, while an active RFID tag has a power source. Active tags have a stronger signal which improves readability, but this comes with a significant cost increase and a limited lifespan prior to battery replacement. Passive tags have a relatively weaker signal, but a passive RFID tag is also less expensive and not limited in lifespan.
On the other hand, RTLS uses a combination of technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and UWB (Ultra-Wideband) to provide real-time location tracking. Unlike RFID, which only provides identification, an RTLS solution offers location tracking capabilities that can track personnel, assets, and vehicles in real-time.
Discuss the relative strengths and weaknesses of RFID when compared to RTLS.
RFID technology is excellent for inventory management and asset tracking, where location tracking is not required. RFID’s strengths lie in its ability to identify items quickly and efficiently, without requiring line-of-sight contact with the tag. Additionally, RFID tags can be read from a distance, which makes them ideal for use in environments where assets move rapidly or where items need to be scanned without being handled.
However, RFID has its limitations, such as limited range, which makes it unsuitable for applications that require real-time location tracking. Additionally, a passive RFID tag can be read from only a short distance, and its accuracy can be affected by interference from metal and water.
RFID
RTLS
High tag volume
Lower tag volume
Disposable tags
Permanent/long-term use tags
Lower positioning accuracy
Very high positioning accuracy
Active or passive tags: may/may not use batteries
Active tags: use batteries
Typical use case: Monitoring which of a large quantity of items pass a chokepoint, or counting items in a space.
Typical use case: Tracking the specific location of high-value items.
Discuss the relative strengths and weaknesses of an RTLS system when compared to RFID.
RTLS provides real time location tracking that makes it ideal for use in applications that require constant monitoring and tracking of personnel, assets, and vehicles. Its strengths lie in its ability to provide accurate location data, even in complex environments such as multi-story buildings, tunnels, and areas with high levels of interference.
However, RTLS can be expensive to implement and maintain, requiring a robust infrastructure that includes specialized hardware and software. Additionally, its accuracy can be affected by obstructions such as walls and buildings, which can result in inaccurate location data.
Are there benefits to working with an experienced RFID or RTLS consultant when creating a project, or can this effort be done entirely with in-house resources?
Working with an experienced RFID or real time locating system consultant can significantly improve the chances of a successful project. These consultants can offer valuable insights into the best practices for deploying and configuring the technology, selecting the right hardware and software, and troubleshooting issues that may arise.
While it is possible to implement an RFID or RTLS solution in-house, it can be a complex and challenging process that requires a significant investment in time, resources, and expertise. Working with an experienced consultant can shorten the timeline and help reduce the risks associated with deploying new technology, and ensure that the project meets its goals and objectives.
RFID vs RTLS: Select the right tool for the job
Both RFID & RTLS formats have their place, when assigned to the right type of project. CSSI can support you in analyzing your core requirements and business opportunity, and help you determine which technology to utilize. If you wish to discuss an RFID or RTLS solution, please contact CSSI to get started.
Zebra Rebates Available for Trade-Ins of Old Equipment
Is it time to update and modernize your rugged handheld computers, barcode scanners, or label printers? Now you can save by getting cash back for your old technology when you upgrade to Zebra products. CSSI can help you to select the best upgrade product, and will coordinate the trade-in with you so that you receive the max potential rebate.
Get started today: contact CSSI by completing the form at right.
Zebra Workforce Connect Consolidates Mobile Devices and Improves Team Communication
What if there were a way to consolidate the number of devices which workers need to juggle in the course of a busy workday? Barcode scanners , mobile computers , mobile phones… it’s a lot to keep track of, and a lot for the company’s IT staff to patch and support.
Zebra Workforce Connect is a software solution that enables communication and collaboration among workers in a variety of industries, including warehouses and manufacturing facilities. The voice client software can be installed on the worker’s existing mobile computer / barcode scanner.
Zebra Workforce Connect Improves Communication, Collaboration, and Safety
Beyond the single-device ergonomic benefits and reduced IT device management workload, Workforce Connect simplifies and improves team communication, which is the holy grail of most modern businesses. Benefits include:
Better collaboration : Zebra Workforce Connect can facilitate teamwork and collaboration by enabling workers to share information and ideas, ask for help, and provide feedback, all in a secure and controlled manner.
Improved productivity : Zebra Workforce Connect can help workers complete their tasks more efficiently by providing real-time access to information, such as inventory levels, work orders, and equipment status.
Enhanced safety : The software can help prevent accidents by enabling workers to communicate quickly and easily with supervisors and other team members, especially in hazardous environments or emergencies.
Here is a graphic demonstrating the broad range of functionality available through Workforce Connect:
It’s All About Connected, Communicative Workers
Zebra mobile computers and software solutions improve the productivity and connectivity of front line employees. It’s harder than ever to retain workers, which is why it makes sense equip workers with tools which will make them not only more productive, but also more empowered… and thus more loyal to the company. It makes even more sense to consolidate the number of devices your team members carry – the barcode scanner and mobile computer can also serve as the communications device.
Contact CSSI to Discuss Zebra Workforce Connect
Overall, Zebra Workforce Connect can help transform the way workers operate in warehouses and manufacturing facilities, by enabling them to be more connected, productive, and safe. Combined with a Zebra device, it’s a powerful addition to your work tools. To learn more and to arrange your own personal demo of this voice client solution from Zebra Technologies Corporation, please contact CSSI.
The world of wireless mobility has grown by leaps and bounds over the past decade. From mobile computers to tablets to barcode scanners, the technology has enabled workers to be more productive than ever before. But according to a recent article in Material Handling & Logistics, Wireless Mobility: Ready for the next leg up, there are still many opportunities for wireless mobility to continue evolving and improving.
Growth of Mobility in Logistics & Supply Chain Management
One of the biggest areas for growth in wireless mobility is in the field of logistics and supply chain management. With the rise of e-commerce and the increasing demand for fast, reliable delivery of goods, logistics companies are looking for ways to streamline their operations and improve efficiency. Wireless mobility offers the potential to do just that.
For example, using mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, workers in a warehouse or distribution center can quickly and easily scan barcodes or RFID tags to track inventory and shipments. This can help to reduce errors and improve accuracy, as well as speed up the entire process of receiving, storing, and shipping goods.
Wireless Mobility in Asset Management
Another area where wireless mobility is having an impact is in the field of asset management. By using sensors and other wireless technologies, companies can track the location and condition of their assets in real-time. This can help to prevent loss or theft, as well as reduce maintenance costs by enabling companies to schedule repairs and replacements more efficiently.
Changing Customer Communication
Wireless mobility is also transforming the way that companies communicate with their customers. With the rise of social media and other digital channels, customers are more connected than ever before, and companies are looking for ways to engage with them in real-time. Mobile devices offer the potential to do just that, enabling companies to send personalized messages and offers to their customers based on their location, preferences, and purchase history.
Notable Viewpoints on Wireless Mobile Computers
Wireless mobile devices are used for just one in three warehouse workflows! Inefficient pen and paper is still used for the other two.
Experts say “nothing offers the same ROI as mobile wireless devices”
Wearable computers eliminate the need for workers to continuously pick up and set down wired barcode scanners
Counter-intuitively, high performing wireless mobile devices are even more valuable within the four walls of an enterprise than those used in the field.
Rugged tablet PCs keep staff mobile and productive
Wireless Mobility Challenges To Be Addressed
Despite the many benefits of wireless mobility, there are still some challenges that need to be addressed. For example, many companies are still struggling to integrate mobile devices into their existing IT systems. This can make it difficult to share data and collaborate effectively across different departments and teams.
Another challenge is security. With more and more sensitive data being stored on mobile devices, companies need to ensure that their devices are properly secured and that their data is protected from hackers and other threats.
To address these challenges, companies are turning to new technologies and strategies to improve their wireless mobility solutions. For example, some are using cloud-based services to simplify the management of their mobile devices and applications. Others are investing in advanced security technologies like biometric authentication and encryption to keep their data secure.
Summary
Overall, the article suggests that the future of wireless mobility looks bright, with new technologies and innovations continuing to emerge. As companies continue to adopt mobile devices and wireless technologies, they are likely to see increased productivity, improved efficiency, and better engagement with their customers. However, it will be important for companies to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in order to take full advantage of the benefits of wireless mobility.
Contact CSSI
Ready to discuss upgrading your wireless computing capabilities and creating new mobile workflows? Speak to CSSI to learn how we can help.
It’s common to encounter articles about advances in RFID technology, which create excitement and the urge to explore an RFID solution for potential benefits to your organization. But in practice, what are the great applications for RFID, and where is the ROI? We’d like to present 10 practical and proven applications which can be effectively handled by RFID. Obviously, results and appropriateness vary by business (one of the factors which is so unique about RFID), so consult with CSSI to explore whether an RFID system is a fit for your business.
10 Great Uses for RFID Technology
1. Inventory Management with RFID
Most people think of RFID technology as an enabler of real-time inventory tracking. Improved inventory control and accuracy has a broad range of benefits, from fewer stockouts and lost orders to reduced manual labor and improved utilization of company cash. A well-implemented RFID application for inventory management can eliminate the need for staff to manually scan or otherwise track in the receipt, shipment, and movement of materials.
2. RFID Asset Tracking
By attaching an RFID tag to assets such as equipment, tools, and vehicles, you can find lost items faster with an RFID reader, and obtain providing real-time location and utilization information with the right RFID asset tracking software. Tool tracking and high-value asset monitoring is a sometimes overlooked but excellent use case for RFID. Asset tracking applications may require active RFID tags, but with the right software, you may be able to achieve the benefits with a passive RFID tag… speak to CSSI for examples.
3. Supply Chain Management
RFID tracking enables end-to-end visibility of goods in the supply chain, reducing the risk of lost or stolen items and improving overall efficiency. Where are items moved upon receipt, and have they been properly stored?
4. RFID for Quality Control
Active or passive RFID tags can be used to track the progress of products through the production process, enabling quick identification of any quality issues. For one customer, CSSI created custom lab tracking software which simplifies the tracking and monitoring of quality control samples through an internal testing lab. This eliminated manual entry and clipboards, which are prone to error and provide insufficient digital proof that tests were performed.
5. Cross-docking with RFID
Cross-docking operations must move fast to be efficient. RFID technology can be used to automate the process of sorting and redistributing incoming goods, reducing manual labor and increasing speed. An RFID antenna configuration at dock doors can automatically detect the arrival and departure of inventory.
6. RFID for Work-in-Process Tracking
Need to track the progress of products as they move through the production process? Radio frequency identification, or RFID, can capture the arrival and departure of items at critical points in the process, and can document that correct operations were performed. This creates real-time data for process improvement.
7. Product Authentication with RFID
Seeking to avoid theft or scams such as the shipment or receipt of counterfeit items? A passive tag inserted into the item can allow you to verify that you are not accepting a fake.
8. Maintenance Management with RFID Support
Seeking to create a more efficient CMMS (computerized maintenance management system)? RFID software can help in a number of ways… components which are labeled with passive RFID tags can help the operator get to the right spot, and background tracking via software can validate that maintenance was performed. Tags can be generated on demand with RFID printers, and can be used to track the maintenance and repair history of assets, helping to improve the overall reliability and lifespan of equipment.
9. Safety Management and RFID
Where are hazardous materials stored, and is there a system in place which can alert you if they are placed in an unauthorized area? An RFID tag can be used to track the location of hazardous materials, helping to ensure that they are stored and used safely.
10. Warehouse Management with RFID
RFID technology can be used to automate the picking and packing of orders, reducing manual labor and increasing speed and accuracy.
The Components of an RFID Solution
The most critical component of an RFID sytem is the tag. There are both passive and active RFID tags, which operated in several different frequences (high frequency, low frequency, etc.). A passive tag is energized by the signal from the RFID antenna, while an active RFID tag emits its own stronger signal. It is vital to choose (and test) RF tags to ensure that readability is acceptable for your use case. RFID printers allow you to generate tags on demand within your facility, or tags can be bulk pre-ordered from CSSI.
After the tag, the RFID reader and antenna is critical. Antennas ‘interrogate’ tags which are within range in order to extract information, and the RFID reader controls connected antennas and provides filtering of results, which are then presented to the RFID software.
RFID software is ultimately where the data extracted from the tags and presented in a way that allows you to perform desired workflows. There are a broad variety of RFID software solutions available, so CSSI will help you to select the best one for your use case based on our conversations with you.
Contact CSSI for RFID Help
Ready to start a conversation and explore RFID as a fit in your business? Contact CSSI to start today.
