The Benefits of Rugged Device Technology for Improving Productivity
| IN THE NEWS |
productivity
Rugged devices have become a key solution for businesses looking to improve productivity, especially in light of the recent celebration of World Productivity Day.
With more businesses shifting towards cloud applications, there is a growing concern about whether commercial smartphones or tablets are sufficient for their needs. However, many businesses have found that these consumer devices may not always be the best option. As a result, more businesses are turning to tough Android devices, which are not only reliable but also built to last.
The mobile devices you choose, whether rugged or consumer-grade, can have a significant impact on your return on investment (ROI). One way to understand this is to consider how rugged devices can help improve productivity.
By using rugged Android devices, businesses can ensure that their operations continue to run smoothly even in the most demanding situations or environments. This reliability reduces the risk of device failure and costly downtime, which can have a direct impact on productivity.
In addition, rugged devices are highly customisable and can be adapted to meet the unique needs of different businesses. This versatility and adaptability can further improve productivity by allowing employees to access the information and tools they need to complete tasks quickly and efficiently.
Overall, using rugged devices like Android can significantly improve productivity in the workplace. These devices are reliable, durable, and adaptable, making them a valuable investment for businesses looking to enhance their operations and improve their ROI.
What does the term "productive" mean?
The term “improve productivity” is often used in today’s culture to encourage individuals to maintain high levels of output, complete a significant amount of work, and generate as much as possible.
Therefore, businesses invest considerable effort to ensure that their internal processes are as productive as possible. But what exactly does it mean to be productive? Merriam-Webster defines “productivity” as the rate at which something is produced. It refers to the success achieved through business development and the level of effort and performance provided by employees in the organisation.
Productivity is a crucial factor in determining whether an organisation is profitable. Many companies aim to increase their overall productivity while improving all aspects of their operations.
Moreover, due to the sharp rise in inflation rates in the UK, it is now more essential than ever for businesses to operate at maximum productivity levels. If you want to learn more about the most efficient methods of boosting business efficiency despite inflation, you can explore this topic further by reading more.
How technology is key to improving productivity
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, technological advancement has become one of the fundamental necessities of modern society. Thanks to the proliferation of online platforms, people from all over the world have been able to socialise, shop, and conduct business. In order to continue operating effectively in the new context, a significant number of businesses have shifted their activities to digital platforms.
As we are now in 2023, it should come as no surprise that a company’s technology infrastructure is one of its most crucial components. Owning technology alone is not enough to improve productivity and efficiency. Choosing the right technology is critical to achieving these benefits in practice.
For instance, companies must enable employees to exchange information as efficiently and quickly as possible. One way to achieve this is by ensuring that staff members have access to the Internet of Things (IoT). The Internet of Things is a network of objects capable of communicating with each other over the internet or other forms of communication.
Information is extremely valuable, and for businesses to be more productive, employees need quick and easy access to the information they require. Regardless of how far apart individuals are from one another, they must be able to communicate effectively.
One of the many benefits of having the right technology is the ability to provide better service to customers. Immediate communication has become the norm in today’s global community due to the continuous march of technological advancement.
Providing quick and quality customer service is one of the best ways to maintain loyal customers. If your employees have access to the appropriate technologies, they will not have to spend as much time searching for information, and they will be able to respond to customer needs more quickly and effectively.
The right technology helps improve productivity for your business
When attempting to integrate newly developed technology into an existing system, one encounters a great deal of resistance and challenges. Nevertheless, sticking to an outdated procedure (or continuing to use outdated technology) can create more issues than it resolves. It is crucial for a company’s success to have the ability to quickly adapt to the changing preferences and requirements of the local population.
Outdated technology can lead to a plethora of issues for businesses and their employees. Gaining access to data and information can be a long and arduous process. Going from one place to another to find or provide the right information is taxing for many employees.
In addition, an outdated system not only makes it more challenging to get data and information, but it also slows down the process. This can lead to frustration and stress on employees, negatively impacting productivity. Outdated technology is also susceptible to hacking and data breaches, which can be dangerous if it contains confidential information.
However, businesses in demanding environments can find it difficult to find the right technology. Heat and moisture present consistent difficulties for companies engaged in the industrial and manufacturing sectors. Those who work in the supply chain, logistics, and transportation industries value mobility greatly; yet, their devices are routinely subjected to drops, shocks, and vibrations as well.
Bring-Your-Own-Devices, more commonly referred to as BYOD, is the most popular choice for digital transformation. As a result, businesses usually have to deal with the failure, repair, and maintenance of the personal devices that are owned by their employees.
The frequency with which these kinds of issues occur may dissuade many organisations from shifting to digital operations. Using equipment that is readily available on the commercial market can result in a higher “total cost of ownership” (TCO) and hinder productivity.
Regardless of the circumstances, businesses do not have any reason to be concerned about the shift to digital if they choose the right technology. In fact, access to the necessary technology can increase the quantity of output and the effectiveness of operations at the same time.
What Kind of Technology is Going to Work Best for my Business? How do I Find the Right Technology?
A prime example of the right technology is a device that is suitable for use in the workplace and easy to integrate into existing structures. It should enhance productivity by simplifying processes or making challenging tasks more manageable. This device need not be overly complicated or expensive, and it should easily fit within the company’s budget. Furthermore, it should have a long lifespan and be capable of withstanding demanding environments.
So, what kind of device meets all of these requirements? These are referred to as rugged devices.
Understanding Rugged Devices
Rugged devices are mobile computing devices that are designed to function effectively in demanding environments and to withstand rough usage. They are purpose-built to operate dependably in harsh conditions, such as extreme temperatures, high pressure, and exposure to solar radiation.
Key Features of Rugged Devices
Durability – Rugged devices can withstand drops, shocks, and other impacts that would damage consumer-grade devices.
Ingress Protection – Rugged devices are rated based on their resistance to dust and water penetration. The IP (Ingress Protection) code provides information about the level of protection against water, dust, and other solids.
Battery Life – Rugged devices typically have longer battery life than consumer devices, which is important for mobile workers who may not have access to power sources for extended periods of time.
Connectivity Options – Rugged devices often feature multiple connectivity options, including cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, to ensure connectivity in remote locations.
Security – Rugged devices offer more robust security features, such as encryption and secure boot, to protect against data breaches and other security threats.
Consumer devices, such as handhelds and tablets, are designed for everyday use in relatively controlled environments. In contrast, rugged devices are built to withstand the harshest environments and rough use.
Benefits of Using Rugged Devices in a Business Setting
Industries such as construction, logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing, where mobile workers operate in extreme conditions, require rugged devices. Rugged devices can enhance productivity and efficiency in the workplace by providing reliable and secure connectivity, inventory management, and tracking capabilities.
Android Rugged Devices
Android rugged devices are becoming increasingly popular in the corporate market because they are flexible, customizable and cost-effective. These devices are specifically designed to function in harsh environments while still using the Android operating system.
Technical Support and Rugged Device Management
Technical support is crucial for rugged devices used in industrial settings due to their critical nature. Rugged device management involves monitoring and maintaining these devices to ensure they are functioning correctly, which includes updating the operating system and firmware.
Laboratory Tests and Military Standards
Rugged devices undergo rigorous testing in labs to ensure they meet certain military standards like MIL-STD-810G, which outlines testing methods and procedures for environmental engineering considerations. Using rugged devices can provide substantial advantages over consumer devices for workers who operate in extreme environments. Companies can enhance their productivity and efficiency by adopting rugged devices that offer extended battery life, multiple connectivity options, and advanced security features. It is crucial to have technical support and manage rugged devices properly to ensure they are functioning correctly and have the latest firmware and operating system updates.
Conker Rugged Devices
Conker is a leading manufacturer of rugged mobile devices designed to withstand extreme conditions and environments. Our devices are built to be durable, reliable, and highly functional, making them the perfect choice for workers in industries such as logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, and construction.
Conker offers a wide range of rugged devices, including handhelds, tablets, and wearables, each tailored to specific industry needs. Our devices are designed to meet military standards, such as MIL-STD-810G, to ensure they can withstand harsh environments and rough handling.
In addition to their ruggedness, Conker devices offer a range of features to improve productivity and efficiency in the workplace. These include long battery life, multiple connectivity options, and robust security features to protect against data breaches and other security threats.
Conker is also committed to providing excellent customer service, including technical support and rugged device management, to ensure our devices are functioning correctly and updated with the latest operating system and firmware.
Overall, Conker rugged devices are the perfect choice for businesses looking to improve their operations in challenging environments. Our durable and functional devices, combined with excellent customer service, make us a leader in the rugged device market.
Find your fit-for-purpose rugged device. Drop us a message and one of our experienced consultants will get in touch with you.
Top Tips for Manufacturing Productivity
| IN THE NEWS |
productivity
Conker celebrates World Productivity Day and offers its tips on making your production plant smarter and more productive
Productivity is defined as “the efficiency and quality of production of goods or services”. Some barriers to productivity include distraction and interruptions, lack of information, ineffective communication, insufficient training, inadequate tools and equipment, stress and too much to do.
Conker, which provides a range of rugged, wearable and scannable devices for mobile workforces, offers its top tips on productivity for production managers.
Tenneil Olivier, manufacturing business development executive at Conker, comments: “An efficient manufacturing operation is critical for customer satisfaction because it helps to ensure quick and accurate delivery of orders, increasing brand loyalty.”
Invest in maintenance
Maintaining an operation’s assets such as equipment, plant and facilities reduces costly downtime and helps improve quality and efficiency. Having a planned program around production schedules can help to further minimise disruption to outputs. Smaller mobile device hardware needs to be tough for the work environment for knocks, bangs, extremes of temperature and dust protection.
Review workflow
Reviewing workflow as an ongoing exercise becomes continuous improvement (known as Kaizen1 in lean manufacturing), which can reduce defects, eliminate waste, boost productivity, promote innovation and have a positive impact on staff.
Create operational efficiencies
Streamlining different processes, information streams and the entire workforce helps to better manage delayed production, waste and poor planning. These operational efficiencies rely on quality-connected equipment, cost management, technology stack, internal communication, supply chain and order management, improved business processes. Linking mobile devices that collect operational data and link directly to back-end platforms removes data input errors and provides real-time visibility.
Wearables
Wearable scanners, designed to keep workers’ hands-free, can reduce each scanning action by a further five seconds – boosting efficiency and productivity even more and keep staff safe. They’ll be collecting data, in real-time that will help in accurate management decision making.
When introducing wearables (or any device), it is vital to ensure that it neatly fits to the IT architecture stack for the business. The operator can then ensure items have been picked correctly by using a glove and PDA combination, and that back-end systems can monitor stock control in real-time through the smooth flow of data.
Going rugged
Devices that are “just tough” no longer meet the needs of many fast-paced hard-working environments. Buyers expect rugged device manufacturers to have considered operating systems, types of viewing screens, battery life, data security devices’ communications capabilities and ease of use.
But how do you know how tough, tough is? Rugged devices are a type of hardware designed specifically to tolerate the harshest environments. From extreme temperatures to dusty environments, wet conditions and then back into the office. They can tolerate a range of hazards including exposure to fluids and extreme vibrations. Touch screens can be operated with gloves on and as the battery life is designed to last an entire shift – rugged devices are built to last. These attributes can positively impact costs in downtime and time and cost to replace devices that are not durable enough. All Conker devices are drop tested typically to 1.2m and for peace of mind have the durability rating of IP65.
Compared to traditional scanners and other mobile devices wearable devices are less likely to get damaged or dropped, resulting in lower equipment replacement costs over time. The ergonomic design of wearable scanners makes them feel natural to use in day-to-day operations. When a backhand scanner is used in conjunction with a glove, workers benefit from having a full range of hand and digit movement.
The new era of smarter operations
James Summers, CEO at Conker, added: “The products surfacing during this new era of industry 4.0 are further supported by automation and real-time connectivity with other departments. The results include increased productivity, reduced resources, and speed of response to customers’ orders resulting in improved bottom lines.
“It is vital that production managers ensure good usability testing on all tablets, handheld and wearable devices, because good usability will help to support a happy workforce. They also they shouldn’t be afraid to demand upfront user testing before committing to new devices in the IT stack.”
All Conker products come with a free one-year ‘Relax’ accidental damage warranty, which means customers are covered on all their devices, whatever happens, no quibbles. Three- and five-year accidental damage warranties are also available with no small print and no exclusions. For further information, please visit weareconker.com.
Top Tips for Transport and Logistics Productivity
| IN THE NEWS |
productivity
Conker celebrates World Productivity Day and offers its tips on making your operation smarter and more productive
Productivity is defined as “the efficiency and quality of production of goods or services” in transport and logistics this could mean ton-miles per vehicle or daily deliveries per driver. Some barriers to productivity include distraction and interruptions, lack of information, ineffective communication, insufficient training, inadequate tools and equipment, stress and too much to do.
Conker, which provides a range of rugged, wearable and scannable devices for mobile workforces, offers its top tips on productivity for transport and logistics managers.
Tash Sievwright, transport and logistics business development executive at Conker, comments: “An efficient operation is critical for client satisfaction because it helps to ensure quick and accurate delivery of orders, increasing brand loyalty.”
Investing in equipment
An obvious starting point, the quality and competence of service is reflected in the quality of the vehicle fleet. Investing in the latest technologies such as migrating fleets to cleaner and lower cost electric vehicles with mounts and belt holders for in-cab handheld devices and tablets can result in gaining competitive advantage as well as easing service requirements and may help to retain staff.
Automating processes
As transport and logistic companies rely heavily on fast turnarounds and quick-service delivery – automating the material handling, packaging and loading processes will help get the vehicle on the road faster. For example, rugged mobile devices which can scan and feed directly into the back-end stock management systems streamline and deliver efficiencies.
Adopting technology to improve productivity
Communication is a critical element of keeping transport and logistic businesses running smoothly. An inefficient, or disparate systems, can result in costly supply chain disruption.
The need for accuracy in identifying, handling, and processing packages is extremely important and one of the solutions to these issues is in wearables.
Adopting technology that can handle business demands and will ultimately help in improving productivity.
Using barcode or radio frequency identification (RFID) readers can improve the accuracy of transactions and reduce picking errors. Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) research conducted at the University of Arkansas shows that using RFID increased inventory accuracy by 27 per cent in just 13 weeks.
Wearables
Wearable scanners, designed to keep workers’ hands-free, can reduce each scanning action by a further five seconds – boosting efficiency and productivity even more.
When introducing wearables (or any device) it is vital to ensure that it neatly fits to the IT architecture stack for the business. The operator can then ensure items have been selected correctly by using a glove and PDA combination, and that back-end systems can monitor order fulfilment in real-time through the smooth flow of data.
Going rugged
Devices that are “just tough” no longer meet the needs of many fast-paced hard-working environments. Buyers expect rugged device manufacturers to have considered operating systems, types of viewing screens, battery life, data security devices’ communications capabilities and ease of use.
But how do you know how tough, tough is? Rugged devices are a type of hardware designed specifically to tolerate the harshest environments. From extreme temperatures to dusty environments, wet conditions and then back into the office. They can tolerate a range of hazards including exposure to fluids and extreme vibrations. Touch screens can be operated with gloves on and as the battery life is designed to last an entire shift – rugged devices are built to last. These attributes can positively impact costs in downtime and time and cost to replace devices that are not durable enough. All Conker devices are drop tested typically to 1.2m and for peace of mind have the durability rating of IP65.
Improving workflows and productivity
Increased speed and accuracy of working may be obvious. Other benefits of rugged wearables include the improvement of productivity as workers can scan items without interrupting workflow. Compared to traditional scanners and other mobile devices wearable devices are less likely to get damaged or dropped, resulting in lower equipment replacement costs over time. The ergonomic design of wearable scanners makes them feel natural to use in day-to-day operations. When a backhand scanner is used in conjunction with a glove, workers benefit from having a full range of hand and digit movement. Running on familiar operating systems (android and windows) to which familiar business apps can also be added helps with a reduction in the need for training and easier adoption.
The new era of smarter operations
James Summers, CEO at Conker, added: “The products surfacing during this new era of smarter operations are further supported by automation and real-time connectivity with other departments. The results include increased productivity, reduced resources, and speed of response to customers’ orders resulting in improved bottom lines.
“It is vital that transport and logistics managers ensure good usability testing on all tablets, handheld and wearable devices, because good usability will help to support a happy workforce. They also shouldn’t be afraid to demand upfront user testing before committing to new devices in the IT stack.”
All Conker products come with a free one-year ‘Relax’ accidental damage warranty, which means customers are covered on all their devices, whatever happens, no quibbles. Three- and five-year accidental damage warranties are also available with no small print and no exclusions. For further information, please visit weareconker.com.
-Ends-
Notes to editors:
About Conker
Conker was founded in 2008 and offers a wide range of rugged devices for mobile workforces built on both Android and Windows platforms. The company is committed to improving productivity and workflows
UK-based, Conker devices are shipped from and serviced in the UK. Customers go directly through to a UK-based team person at Conker not to a switchboard or IVR.
The company was recognised as one of the FT 1000 Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies (2018) and is a Winner Deloitte Technology Fast 500 (2017).
Further information:
Katrina Suppiah/Laura Cooke
Publicite Ltd, 020 8543 6582; [email protected]
Top Tips for Warehouse Productivity
| IN THE NEWS |
productivity
Conker celebrates World Productivity Day and offers its tips on making your warehouse smarter and more productive
Productivity is defined as “the efficiency and quality of production of goods or services”. Some barriers to productivity include distraction and interruptions, lack of information, ineffective communication, insufficient training, inadequate tools and equipment, stress and too much to do.
Conker, which provides a range of rugged, wearable and scannable devices for mobile workforces, offers its top tips on productivity for warehouse managers.
Tenneil Olivier, manufacturing business development executive at Conker, comments: “An efficient warehouse is critical for customer satisfaction because it helps to ensure quick and accurate delivery of orders, increasing brand loyalty.”
Streamlining processes
A typical warehouse has a considerable amount of activity going on at any point in time. Streamlining processes to improve efficiencies can be achieved by considering warehouse layout, improving storage – based on the Six Sigma principle from lean manufacturing, warehouse replenishment processes and streamlining picking and packing.
Adopting technology to improve productivity
Adopting technology that can handle business demands and will ultimately help in improving productivity.
Using barcode or radio frequency identification (RFID) readers can improve the accuracy of transactions and reduce picking errors. Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) research conducted at the University of Arkansas shows that using RFID increased inventory accuracy by 27 per cent in just 13 weeks.
Wearables
Wearable scanners, designed to keep workers’ hands-free, can reduce each scanning action by a further five seconds – boosting efficiency and productivity even more.
When introducing wearables (or any device) it is vital to ensure that it neatly fits to the IT architecture stack for the business. The operator can then ensure items have been picked correctly by using a glove and PDA combination, and that back-end systems can monitor stock control in real-time through the smooth flow of data.
Going rugged
Devices that are “just tough” no longer meet the needs of many fast-paced hard-working environments. Buyers expect rugged device manufacturers to have considered operating systems, types of viewing screens, battery life, data security devices’ communications capabilities and ease of use.
But how do you know how tough, tough is? Rugged devices are a type of hardware designed specifically to tolerate the harshest environments. From extreme temperatures to dusty environments, wet conditions and then back into the office. They can tolerate a range of hazards including exposure to fluids and extreme vibrations. Touch screens can be operated with gloves on and as the battery life is designed to last an entire shift – rugged devices are built to last. These attributes can positively impact costs in downtime and time and cost to replace devices that are not durable enough. All Conker devices are drop tested typically to 1.2m and for peace of mind have the durability rating of IP65.
Improving workflows and productivity
Increased speed and accuracy of working may be obvious. Other benefits of rugged wearables include the improvement of productivity as workers can scan items without interrupting workflow. Compared to traditional scanners and other mobile devices wearable devices are less likely to get damaged or dropped, resulting in lower equipment replacement costs over time. The ergonomic design of wearable scanners makes them feel natural to use in day-to-day operations. When a backhand scanner is used in conjunction with a glove, workers benefit from having a full range of hand and digit movement. Running on familiar operating systems also helps with a reduction in the need for training and easier adoption.
The new era of smarter operations
James Summers, CEO at Conker, added: “The products surfacing during this new era of smarter warehouses are further supported by automation and real-time connectivity with other departments. The results include increased productivity, reduced resources, and speed of response to customers’ orders resulting in improved bottom lines.
“It is vital that warehouse managers ensure good usability testing on all tablets, handheld and wearable devices, because good usability will help to support a happy workforce. And, they shouldn’t be afraid to demand upfront user testing before committing to new devices in the IT stack.”
