Management + Systems

Here, Jon Roberts, marketing manager for OrderWise Stock Control and Order Processing Software, looks at how to utilise mobile technology in the warehouse, and why it is much more than just barcode scanning.

Whether it is utilising traditional PDA scanners or any other device, mobile technology is now an integral part of effective warehouse management. By using mobile devices in conjunction with barcode scanning, businesses are able to ensure that greater accuracy and efficiency is achieved in the performance of every day warehouse operations. However, with mobile technology advancing all the time, is having the ability to scan barcodes alone enough to ensure productivity is maximised within warehouse processes? The simple answer is no.

Ultimately a barcode is just a font type. Being able to simply scan a barcode rather than manually type in details obviously has instant time saving value, but really the amount of time being saved in the long run is only in the context of the task that is being performed. For example at the point of sale, this simple scanning application means being able to quickly build the sale. However, when we look at the use of barcode scanning within warehouse environments, common processes are often likely to have multiple stages and greater levels of complexity.

While the scanning of barcodes for warehouse activities is of benefit at specific points for increased speed and accuracy, these factors are only really maximised if the solution behind the mobile device being used effectively controls the overall manner in which tasks are being performed. Therefore mobile devices shouldn’t just offer the ability to implement barcode scanning technology, but also improve upon previously used procedures. Carefully structured task performance methods should be in place to ensure human error is eliminated. Staff need to be directed around the warehouse using the most efficient walk routes to minimise warehouse travelling time, and all information should be updated back to the main system to avoid any data inaccuracies.

It isn’t just the immediate improvement to operations that should be considered when utilising mobile devices for warehouse management. Mobile technology and barcode standards are constantly evolving, meaning that many mobile solutions could quickly become outdated. Therefore investing in a mobile warehouse management solution that is constantly updated, to take advantage of new developments, is key.

One such example is the use of GS1 barcodes within many supply chains. Currently used in industries where batch and serial traceability is important, these GS1 barcodes offer businesses a streamlined method of transferring several different fields of data into a mobile device with just a single scan, including EAN codes, batch numbers, serial numbers, expiry dates, quantities and more. Currently, GS1 barcodes are used by over two million companies around the world, however these figures are bound to further increase as the use of these barcodes is passed down the supply chain.

So although it is clear that using mobile and barcode scanning technology can improve the accuracy and efficiency of warehouse operations to reduce the cost of order fulfilment. Businesses will also need to look further into how their warehouse operations are conducted in order to achieve maximum productivity.

www.orderwise.co.uk