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DHL takes vision-picking strategy global

Following augmented reality pilots in several regions, DHL Supply Chain, a subsidiary of Deutsche Post DHL Group, has expanded use of its ‘vision picking’ technology in warehouses around the world.
The smart glasses provide visual displays of order-picking instructions along with information on where items are located and where they need to be placed on a cart, freeing pickers from paper instructions, increasing efficiency and comfort.
In the international trials, DHL Supply Chain saw an average increase in productivity of 15 per cent, and higher accuracy rates, and the solution reportedly halved onboarding and training times.
“Digitalisation is not just a vision or program for us at DHL Supply Chain, it’s a reality for us and our customers, and is adding value to our operations on the ground,” said Markus Voss, Chief Information Officer and Chief Operating Officer, DHL Supply Chain.
“Customers have been very happy about the productivity gains and are equally excited about using innovative technology at their warehouses.”
Pilot programs took place across the US, mainland Europe and the UK over different industries including technology, retail and consumer.
DHL Supply Chain has reported that employees were found to be enthusiastic about using state-of-the-art technology and were pleased with how lightweight the smart glasses were, and how much more comfortable the process became with hands-free picking.
“We are very satisfied and happy that the pilot phase went so well and that we can now say augmented reality technology is one of our standard offerings at
DHL Supply Chain,” added Voss. “As one of the first logistics companies using the technology, we have truly established a new way of order picking in the industry.”
Following the success of its vision-picking program, DHL is looking into additional applications for augmented and virtual reality such as training and maintenance.
 

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