Today’s digital world is connected by constant communication transmitted primarily through mobile devices. Ideally, warehouse operations can maximize efficiency and profitability utilizing these tools, but many managers of complex systems are slow to adopt new technologies. However, the rising cost of labor and an increasing demand for products means that going digital is more important than ever. Software, automation, mobile technology, voice controls, and RFID are rapidly expanding technologies promising efficient use of time, labor and money.
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Software
Customers in the ecommerce market expect faster and faster deliveries, which means that warehouses are under immense pressure to receive, record, and distribute inventory. Fortunately, software companies provide an extensive line of products and may even offer free trials. Choosing the optimum software program for your warehouse can make or break a production line. Current software models will track inventory, respond to orders, and monitor productivity.
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Automation
Increased labor costs have ignited the robotics development. Automation saves both time and money by fulfilling millions of orders with minimal overhead. Advanced technology is available at a relatively affordable price, which is attracting more and more managers to automate their production. Robotics also make fewer mistakes than human workers, which lowers the operational cost and increases customer satisfaction. An automated labor force minimizes safety hazards, since robots are less vulnerable to injury and also avoid dangerous errors.
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Mobile technology
Mobile isn’t limited to your smartphone: cloud-based technology, wearable barcodes, and powerful tracking are revolutionizing warehouse operations. Cloud-based storage is self-updating and doesn’t require the installation of a new, expensive system. A mobile barcode device is another timesaver as it automatically scans items as employees process them. Employees can review packing lists, locate inventory, and scan items hands-free. Advanced tracking methods with a mobile device can help prevent lost or forgotten merchandise.
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Voice controls
With voice-controlled technology, spoken commands dictate when to replenish inventory or change the warehouse’s shipping methods. Voice controls improve picking productivity and accuracy, require less training to operate, and a bring a higher ROI. Voice controls can track operations in real-time and easily communicate with other warehouse distribution channels. As the size of warehouses expand to meet rising consumer demand, mobile devices and digital interfaces will make instant communication with employees at different locations possible.
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RFID
With voice-controlled technology, spoken commands dictate when to replenish inventory or change the warehouse’s shipping methods. Voice controls improve picking productivity and accuracy, require less training to operate, and a bring a higher ROI. Voice controls can track operations in real-time and easily communicate with other warehouse distribution channels. As the size of warehouses expand to meet rising consumer demand, mobile devices and digital interfaces will make instant communication with employees at different locations possible.
Improve warehouse efficiency with technologically advanced material equipment from our Linde, Baoli, and STILL product line, and supply chain solutions from Dematic. Contact a KION Dealer representative today.
