Third-party logistics centers, warehouses and distribution centers are all taking the initiative to add mobile computing technology to their day to day operations to help improve flexibility. Mobile computers are classified as automated data collection devices designed to be compact, lightweight and durable. This makes them perfect for the extreme environments encountered both in and out of the warehouse environment. The most frequently utilized mobile devices include handheld & wearable computers, vehicle mounted computers, tablets and handheld RFID readers. In order to ensure these devices fit the technology portfolio of any supply chain operation, device manufacturers such as Zebra Technologies have made extensive accessory packages available to customize devices to individual needs and preferences.
In a recent survey conducted by Cisco, 3 out of 5 employees feel as if they could be productive outside of the traditional office setting. Employees in warehouses and distribution centers need the flexibility mobile computers provide as they spend the majority of their day working on the warehouse floor, in the yard or out in the field. This flexibility can save SCM operations up to 11.3 hours per week per employee, resulting in notable labor savings and process improvements.
The benefits of implementing mobile computing technologies includes cost savings opportunities related to both device total cost of ownership (TCO) and labor costs. Employees utilizing these devices in day-to-day operations also helps to improve inventory data accessibility. Making data more available to staff helps to improve decision making, communication and activity planning. Data collected using mobile computers is, on average, 99.9% accurate. This is head and shoulders above data accuracy reached when recording data manually. Having more accurate inventory information also helps 3PLs, warehouses and DCs to better answer customer inquiries and provide exceptional service.
The industry’s top CIOs and CTOs have identified mobile computing solutions as a top 10 IT investment priority for three years running due to the noteworthy benefits they can provide. To learn more about how to equip your staff with the proper mobile computing technology contact Datex hardware experts today at marketing@datexcorp.com or 800.933.2839.
