Without mobility, business processes are tied to a desk and paper is used to distribute information. A paper driven process requires data to be handled multiple times leading to inefficient use of time and the greater chances of costly errors.
The growth of wireless technology has changed the nature of how electronic equipment can be used. Procedures that were originally built around a network or electrical connectivity at a fixed location can be modified because the computing, printing, testing, weighing, and scanning technology can now be brought to where the work is taking place. Operators and management now have continual access to real-time information anywhere in a facility as tools needed to automate business processes are always at hand.
Where can mobility be applied?
- Receiving
- Cross Docking
- Put Away
- Returns
- Picking
- Shipping
Typical Mobility
Wireless mobility typically refers to handheld or belt worn portable printers, scanners, or headsets. However, these units can be limited in size, capacity, and functionality.
But what if you…
- Print 200+ labels per day?
- Need both a printer and a PC?
- Need a full computer screen?
- Need thermal transfer labels?
Alternative Mobility Avenues
A mobile powered cart or workstation is designed to hold and power up to four pieces of existing hardware for 8-12 hours of normal use. This enables “on-demand” label printing with a high-volume thermal printer. The workstation or “Mobile Desk” is always within arms length ANYWHERE in a facility and the need for extension cords or data drops from the ceiling are completely eliminated.
Mobile Powered carts are available in a variety of styles and also offer a wide range of accessories to suit a specific application.
Productivity Impact
When you integrate mobility into your existing process, the increased productivity is immediately apparent. Examples include:
- Eliminating the need to walk back and forth to a static desk or printer cart
- Reducing costly interruptions (e.g. chatting with co-workers) since the technology/hardware stays with operator at all times
- Eliminate shipping errors
Mobility Equals…
Mobility enables workers to have real-time access to WMS, ERP and automated data collection capabilities thereby improving productivity in a variety of warehouse/DC functions.
Receiving
- Workers have real-time access to P.O. database along with automated data capture equipment.
- Incoming shipment fulfills an order, cross docking info can be viewed instantly and relabeled. Shipment can be brought to the correct dock in one step.
- Shipments are handled once instead of multiple times, since put-away, picking, and packing is eliminated.
Put Away
- Electronic put away orders can provide exact location and most efficient route.
- Inventory reaches the shelf in the shortest amount of time; “Out of stocks” are reduced.
- Scanning shelf tags ensure items are put in correct location.
Returns
- Workers have access to inventory, accounting, order systems and data capture – thus eliminating paperwork.
- Workers can take pictures to provide proof on condition for return records.
- Customer can be credited immediately.
- Returned items are quickly updated in inventory system – so new orders can be fulfilled.
Shipping
- A quick scan of the bar code or RFID tags can provide a cross-check to ensure order is correct and scheduled for proper shipment method.
- Workers can generate a shipping label “on-the-spot” ensuing that the order is identified with the proper shipping label.
- Costly mis-ships are virtually eliminated.
Newcastle Systems’ commitment is to provide innovative solutions that help to make equipment more mobile and information more readily available across an entire enterprise.
