3 Ways To Prepare Warehouse Operations For Peak Season
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Rugged Wearable
As businesses prepare for peak season, which is the time of year with the highest demand for products or services, it becomes essential to optimise warehouse operations. Warehouse processes, inventory management, and supply chain operations must be streamlined to ensure customer satisfaction while maintaining operational efficiency.
Warehouse managers must focus on warehouse space, store inventory, the picking process, storage space, and packing and shipping to meet consumer expectations effectively.
To remain competitive, businesses must continually improve and forecast demand to allocate resources, such as equipment and staffing, most cost-effectively and efficiently as possible.
This is where effective warehousing practices come in, including the receiving process, storage, and packing. The management team must leverage technology and adopt uninterrupted data capture to improve the warehousing focus and ensure that the right products are shipped effectively.
In this article, we will focus on three best practices for preparing warehouse operations for peak season: adopting uninterrupted data capture, optimising warehouse layout, and leveraging the right technology.
By following these practices, businesses can ensure that they are prepared to meet the demand during peak season while also maintaining customer satisfaction and improving their supply chain operations.
Understanding Peak Season in Warehousing
Every year, warehouses face a surge in activity for several months due to the high demand for products. The peak season typically begins in October as people start preparing for the holidays and extends until January, with warehouses dealing with high volumes of returns. During this period, supply chains may also face disruptions, forcing warehouses to find ways to operate more efficiently.
It is crucial to prepare warehouse operations for peak season as it brings increased demands on warehouse processes. Failing to plan for peak season can lead to significant warehouse constraints, challenges in balancing inventory, and shortages in labour, resulting in dissatisfied customers and disgruntled clients.
Adopt Uninterrupted Data Capture
To prepare your warehouse operations for peak season, it is crucial to ensure uninterrupted data capture. Warehouses play a vital role in the e-commerce and online retail industries. Smooth operations lead to timely and accurate order fulfilment, which ultimately leads to happy customers and increased revenue.
On the other hand, poor warehouse management during peak season can result in inventory imbalances, labour shortages, and unhappy clients.
Barcode scanners are essential devices that help warehouse operations run smoothly. They facilitate easy tracking of inventory, item location, and other vital information. However, barcode scanners can experience difficulties operating in the warehouse environment, which is typically harsh and demanding.
Barcode scanners are often in constant use, exposed to dust, and moisture, and prone to accidental damage, such as getting knocked over or run over by a forklift.
Investing in a rugged barcode scanner from Conker is a wise decision. A rugged barcode scanner can withstand the harsh conditions of a warehouse environment and ensure uninterrupted data capture. Conker’s rugged barcode scanners are easy to deploy, manage, optimise, integrate, and built to last.
Rugged barcode scanners can perform various warehouse transactions, including receiving, material handling, picking, packing, shipping label generation, and handling returns. With a reliable barcode scanner, you can ensure that your warehouse operation runs smoothly and efficiently during peak season.
Optimise Your Warehouse Layout
To ensure optimal warehouse operations during peak season, it is important to focus on specific areas such as the receiving area, forward picking area, and returns area. A well-designed receiving area enables the quick processing of new shipments and the efficient movement of inventory. In the forward picking area, items in high demand should be stored in easily accessible locations to reduce the time and cost per order. This area’s configuration can be modified by considering seasonal demand, product velocity, and current trends. Finally, an effective returns area with transition and evaluation points can efficiently manage the increased volume of returns during peak season.
Leveraging The Right Technology
If you’re responsible for managing one or multiple warehouses, you understand that communication and coordination are critical for efficient operations during the busiest time of the year. Without effective communication and planning, you’re likely to struggle during peak seasons.
Fortunately, you can prepare your warehouse operations for peak season by using the appropriate technology. With the right technology, you can increase efficiency and provide improved visibility throughout the warehouse process.
Some examples of useful technology include:
- Warehouse Management System (WMS)
- Barcode and RFID tags
- Mobile-powered carts
- Automated picking tools
- Rugged Wearable Technology
Conker provides a range of rugged devices designed for use in demanding warehouse environments. These devices are durable, easy to deploy, manage, optimise, and integrate, making them ideal for improving warehouse operations during peak season.
Conker Devices for Warehouses
Conker’s rugged devices include:
- Rugged handheld tablets– These devices are designed to withstand drops, vibrations, and extreme temperatures. They can be used for a wide range of warehouse operations, including inventory management, order picking, and shipping.
- Rugged handhelds – These devices are ideal for workers who need a larger screen to view data and images. They can be used to monitor inventory levels, update orders, and manage shipments.
- Rugged wearables – These devices are ideal for workers who need a device that is both rugged and versatile. They can be used to communicate with other workers, access data, and manage warehouse operations.
Conker’s rugged devices are built to withstand the harsh conditions of a busy warehouse and can help improve efficiency and productivity during peak seasons.
To find the right device for business, get in touch with Conker today.
Putting the user at the centre of wearable technology
Wearable technology devices, properly integrated into an organisation’s processes, can really help to drive efficiencies – enabling easy data capture, driving speed and accuracy.
Putting the user at the centre of wearable technology
“Yet there still seems to be some ambiguity over the role they can play in supporting business growth and efficiency,” said James Summers, Founder & CEO, Conker (pictured below). This is evidenced in a 2021 report by Deloitte and MHI that found the two biggest barriers to adoption for organisations for wearable and mobile technology were, firstly, a lack of a clear business case and, secondly, a lack of understanding of the technology landscape.
Offering exceptional potential for improving efficiency in warehousing and logistics, the current (and primary) use for these wearable technology devices is in barcode scanning and data capture. “Information is collected and communicated easier and faster between individuals and the organisation,” continued Summers. “Automatic updates give real-time detailed insight into business activity and data is able to flow within the workplace quicker than ever, with instant access and insight into product status and metrics for worker productivity.”
When looking at wearables, there are particular aspects to efficiency that often get overlooked when considering the business case for their implementation. Examples of this would be the efficiency gains from the worker due to more harmonious technology, and the unforeseen costs due to failure-induced downtime as a result of insufficiently robust hardware choices.
“When it comes to the technology at the core of any logistics operation, its ease of use is essential,” Summers added. “The purchasing decisions made by IT departments, and/or management are primarily based on cost, or isolated from the reality of the situation, and the day-to-day experience of logistics workers. Technology must be harmonised as much as possible with the individuals using the system, which I’d argue needs to take precedent.”
Wearables offer a solution to the issue of ease-of-use and user accessibility. When wearing a system, workers don’t have to stop and bring out devices, or manually input data (opening up the system to inaccuracies and human error), thereby streamlining operations. It provides a seamless, simpler experience for workers, bringing increased flexibility, and allowing them to work on multiple tasks faster, while improving overall productivity.
Another aspect to this is the well-being and safety of workers. “Wearables help reduce strain and physical workload,” Summers said. “In comparison to holding and carrying a tablet while doing tasks, wearing the system cuts down on the energy and strain required to complete tasks. The security of having devices worn also reduces the likelihood of it being dropped or introduced into the environment as a hazard.”
Improving uptime and efficiency are critical factors for logistics, with every second counting at each step of the process. Whether in a fast-paced warehouse environment, or on the road, inefficiencies and costs can quickly creep in if a device fails, or if the repair or support service for a device is delayed.
Conker’s History dates back to 2008 when it was founded with a focus to save companies from Bad Tech. Having witnessed it all too often, Conker was on a mission to prevent companies from being matched with the wrong tech for the job at hand.
“We should always plan for technology to fail in some form; overlooking this can leave you open to risk,” Summers concluded. “However, rugged technology is about maximising uptime, and reducing potential inefficiencies through the toughness and longevity of the device and its battery. When considering the purchase of wearable or mobile technology it is not only durability that is important, but also the service support for a device and its’ warranty, both of which should also be factored into the purchasing decision.”
This article was originally posted by NICK BRADLEY, Logistics Manager
Rugged Wearable Devices And Their Role In Business
In recent years, wearable technology has made a significant impact in the health and fitness industry with devices such as smartwatches, smart glasses and ECGs. These devices can track a user’s fitness levels, sleep patterns, and even connect with other devices. However, the use of wearable devices is not limited to casual settings anymore, they are now making their way into various industries, with rugged wearables leading the charge.
A rugged wearable device is a specialised wearable that is designed to withstand harsh environments and extreme temperatures. It is configured to operate efficiently in different work settings and can withstand drops and impacts. Rugged wearables have become the preferred choice for businesses in the warehousing, manufacturing, engineering, retail, and logistics industries due to their durability and versatility.
Rugged Wearable Devices In A Business Setting
Rugged wearables offer several advantages, including the ability to increase productivity by providing hands-free access to critical information and data required for a task. Equipped with the latest technology, including CPU ports and right-click functionality, they are an excellent choice for businesses looking to achieve greater efficiency.
In addition, rugged wearables are designed to accurately track a user’s arm movements, making them ideal for gloved users. They can be easily removed and worn on the arm, allowing for quick access to critical information without interrupting workflow. Overall, rugged wearables are a perfect solution for businesses looking to increase productivity, efficiency, and safety while performing various tasks.
Rugged wearables are changing the landscape of various industries by providing numerous advantages for workplaces, companies, and industries. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more businesses adopting rugged wearables to improve their operations, streamline workflows, and stay ahead of the competition.
5 Benefits of Wearable Rugged Devices
The “hands-free” convenience
The introduction of rugged wearables is bringing a significant change to the way workers perform their tasks. It offers a seamless work experience, eliminating the need for workers to stop and retrieve their devices. Moreover, there is no longer a need to manually input information into their devices.
With the use of wearables, workers can simply put out their hand or arm, making their work more efficient and convenient. Wearables provide a lightweight and portable option for workers to carry around, improving their overall work experience.
Greater connectivity between workers
Wearable technology has revolutionised the way employees stay connected in the workplace. With wearables, it is easier for employees to keep track of their tasks and responsibilities for the day, week or even the month. Moving from one task to the next has never been smoother with the help of these devices.
Moreover, wearables facilitate better communication among colleagues. They enable employees to monitor tasks and check on the status of deliveries. In addition, supervisors can keep track of their employees and ensure their safety within the workplace using these devices.
With wearables, workers can access information in real-time, without the need to go back and forth to retrieve the information they need. This allows for a more efficient and streamlined workflow. Rugged wearables are especially useful in providing a better connection between everyone in the workforce, increasing overall productivity and safety.
Workers have better awareness and focus
Rugged wearables are truly remarkable devices that create incredible opportunities for workers to perform multiple tasks while maintaining high-quality output. The ability to multitask more efficiently allows workers to have a better understanding of their surroundings, reducing the chances of accidents occurring in the workplace. Additionally, increased awareness helps workers to focus better on their current tasks, resulting in improved performance.
As a result, rugged wearables are an excellent tool for increasing workplace efficiency and productivity. With these devices, workers can complete tasks more quickly and accurately, leading to higher productivity and better output. This improved efficiency can lead to significant cost savings for businesses, making rugged wearables a valuable investment for any company looking to enhance their operations.
Rugged wearables increase productivity and efficiency
The previous point and this one are interconnected, as rugged wearables not only improve worker awareness and focus but also enable easier connectivity and access to information. This eliminates distractions and reduces the time needed to access devices, ultimately allowing workers to work at their best pace and improving the overall workflow and productivity of the workplace.
Furthermore, these devices also help to minimise the risk of human error and mistakes, resulting in better quality output and reduced costs. Overall, rugged wearables offer a smooth and seamless experience for the workforce, making it an excellent investment for companies looking to improve their operations and stay ahead of the competition.
Increased safety for individual workers
Employing rugged wearables has become crucial for businesses that put a premium on safety. These devices can facilitate instant communication among workers and provide quick access to important information, helping prevent accidents and hazards. With wearables, workers can quickly alert their colleagues to potential hazards and inform them of any unsafe incidents in the workplace. In the event of an emergency, workers can instantly call for assistance with their devices, ensuring that help arrives quickly.
Incorporating wearable technology into your workplace can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. Therefore, businesses can benefit greatly from rugged wearables, not just in terms of productivity and efficiency but also in terms of employee safety.
What Industries Benefit from Using Wearable Tech?
The adoption of wearable technology is intended to enhance people’s lives, especially by reducing the burden of work in various industries. Its convenience promotes faster work completion while also ensuring worker safety.
In general, wearable technology can increase the efficiency of many industries. Below are some examples of industries that could benefit significantly from this technology.
Healthcare
Wearable technology has been in use in the healthcare industry for some time now. However, it has the potential to perform many more functions than it currently does. For instance, these devices can monitor a patient’s heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, and detect early signs of any anomalies in their body. This enables healthcare professionals to remotely monitor the status of their outpatients and provide early intervention if necessary.
Wearable technology has the potential to revolutionise the way healthcare is delivered, making it more efficient and effective.
Manufacturing
Wearable technology can significantly enhance safety and productivity in the manufacturing industry. With the use of sensors and alerts, workers can be warned of any potential hazards in their environment, such as high temperatures, leaks, or toxic fumes. This leads to a safer work environment and reduces the likelihood of workplace accidents or injuries. Additionally, wearables can provide real-time data on production processes, allowing for improved efficiency and customisation of products. With these benefits, it’s no wonder that the manufacturing industry is increasingly adopting wearable technology to enhance their operations.
Retail
Wearable technology has numerous benefits in the retail industry, including streamlining operations, communication, and customer service.
- Firstly, wearables provide a smooth transition between tasks for employees, allowing them to easily check completed tasks and know what to do next. This results in a more efficient and productive workflow.
- Secondly, wearables enable supervisors to easily communicate with their employees, while employees can quickly seek help from their co-workers if needed. This enhances communication and collaboration among team members.
- Lastly, wearables enable employees to quickly access information about stock availability and prices, resulting in faster and more accurate customer service. Wearables also facilitate contactless payments, which has become more important due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, wearables can greatly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of operations in the retail industry.
Warehouse & Logistics
The warehousing industry carries out multiple operations simultaneously. Wearable technology allows employees to access information more easily, simplifies inventory management, and facilitates tracking of operations and the current status of items. As a result, wearable tech enhances the efficiency of the warehousing industry.
Education
Wearable technology has the potential to enhance the educational experience for both students and teachers. It can provide students with a more immersive and engaging learning environment. Additionally, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, wearables can enable students to participate in virtual field trips and other remote learning experiences.
Moreover, wearables can be used to monitor students’ physical fitness and health during physical education classes. They can also provide opportunities for students to explore different career paths through the use of virtual reality technology. Furthermore, gamification of the education system is another potential benefit of wearables in the classroom.
Limitations of Wearables
Wearables come with several challenges and limitations that need to be considered. Some of the most common ones are:
High Cost
Wearable technology is generally more expensive compared to regular consumer wearables. This is because rugged wearables require specialised design and materials that make them durable and able to withstand harsh environments.
Limited Battery Life
The battery life of wearables is often shorter than regular wearables due to their higher power consumption in demanding environments. This limited battery life can be a significant issue for workers who rely on their devices for extended periods without access to charging points.
Design and Comfort Issues
Wearables’ design often prioritises durability and sturdiness over comfort and usability, leading to potential discomfort or even injuries for workers who wear them for long periods.
Conker Wearable Devices
Conker is a leading producer of rugged wearable devices in the UK, with a range of products designed to provide reliable and efficient solutions for businesses in various industries. The company offers a diverse range of wearable devices, including the BG2, a pointing device that allows for easy and precise input on rugged devices, and the WC4, an Android PDA that enables fast and efficient data collection and communication.
Conker’s wearable devices are designed to be tough and durable, making them ideal for use in demanding environments. They are built to withstand harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures, water, and dust, and can withstand drops and shocks, ensuring they are capable of enduring the rigours of everyday use.
The devices are also user-friendly, with intuitive interfaces and ergonomic designs that ensure comfortable use even over extended periods. They are also equipped with advanced features such as long battery life, high-resolution displays, and powerful processors, ensuring they are capable of handling complex tasks quickly and efficiently.
Overall, Conker’s wearable devices offer a reliable and efficient solution for businesses looking to streamline their operations and improve productivity in challenging environments. With their rugged design, intuitive interface, and advanced features, these devices are the ideal choice for businesses looking to optimise their workflows and stay ahead of the competition.
If you are looking for the right wearable tech for your business needs send us a message and one of our experienced consultants will be in touch.