Warehouses across the country continue to invest in new materials-handling technologies, services and software solutions. In fact, an estimated 42 percent of shipping and fulfillment divisions are expected to move forward with investments in this area in 2018, according to the analysts at Peerless Research Group. More than half of these parties are allocating significant funds to the implementation of mobile computing solutions – and for good reason. Mobile data collection is driving innovation in the warehousing space, catalyzing new operational methodologies that reduce waste and increase productivity.
READ MORE: 8 signs you need mobile data collection »
Here are three transformative warehousing trends centered on mobile data collection:
1. Location-based warehouse optimization
A significant number of warehouses have adopted connected fixtures associated with the ever-growing internet of things (IoT), most of which sit at the center of manual scanning workflows. However, manpower-dependent IoT deployments of this kind are quickly becoming remnants of the past as innovators roll out new automated alternatives.
A number of warehouse management software (WMS) providers are testing solutions that harness the power of radio-frequency identification (RFID) sensors that communicate directly with raw materials, Baking Business reported. This optimizes warehouse movement while reducing labor costs and the likelihood of error.
2. Innovative labor management
In addition to implementing IoT-driven machine-to-machine communication workflows, many warehouses are leveraging connected solutions to bolster worker productivity. Unsurprisingly, Amazon is the leader in this growing niche, The New York Times reported. The e-commerce giant recently obtained the patent for connected a wristband that monitors employee activity in real time and even nudges those who are underperforming against projections.
Other shipping and fulfillment operations exploring this technology are taking a less intrusive approach, according to analysts for Deloitte. This normally involves collecting data on worker movement and creating manual processes designed to increase productivity.
3. Real-time logistical oversight
Logistics software providers have begun rolling out real-time parcel-tracking products that leverage IoT technology and mobile data collection tools to keep shipping and fulfillment staff informed as the finished product makes its way to customers, Supply Chain Digital reported. These systems not only allow warehousing teams to view the physical location of items in transit but also display traffic and weather conditions, making it possible to anticipate and address slowdowns.
Is your business interested in harnessing the power of these and other warehouse management strategies centered on mobile data collection? Connect with RFgen today. We offer holistic inventory management solutions that leverage cutting-edge data collection tools to catalyze operational improvement and organizational growth.
If you are interested in learning more about technology trends and their impact on the warehouse, download one of our free white papers.
