Today’s workers have high expectations for their devices — a modern design, a minimal footprint, and so easy to use that virtually no training is required.
On the other hand, supply chain businesses require a device that works seamlessly in both customer-facing areas and the warehouse, reduces management time and cost, has flexibility for a range of different use cases, a rugged design to ensure a long lifecycle with a low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and scanning options that match the needs of their environment. Enter the world of wearable devices.
Wearables are a worker’s best friend.
Whether positioned on the ring finger, wrist, or hand, wearable computers offer workers more mobility, flexibility and ultimately productivity in their busiest days. Consider a warehouse employee tasked with packing hundreds of shipments a day. The only way this employee can move as fast as humanly possible is if they have their hands totally free to pick items, pack the boxes, operate equipment and more. With a wearable computer worn on their body, they don’t have to worry about picking up and putting down a device every time they need something. Users can seamlessly complete their tasks by consulting their wearable device for guidance whenever necessary. Since the device can visually display directions, provide haptic feedback, or give audible instructions on where to go and what to do next, a larger screen device is not essential for navigation. Additionally, the ease of use allows them to quickly familiarise themselves with their responsibilities, enabling them to achieve full productivity in a shorter amount of time.
The truth is, in a busy warehouse, any device that requires an employee to hold it disrupts their workflow by introducing unnecessary friction. Warehouse managers should be doing everything they can to make their workers happy, which includes giving them cutting-edge devices that enable them to complete tasks as fast as possible.
93 per cent of warehouse employees agree that investing in new technology is essential for attracting and retaining talent, and with labour shortages currently causing issues for many supply chain companies, retaining your best employees is more important than ever before.
82 per cent of warehouse decision makers and 85 per cent of warehouse employees also agree that technology is key in boosting frontline productivity. So it’s a win-win for everyone.
Which wearable device is right for your workers?
There are a range of wearable devices on the market today, each with their own use cases and wearing styles. Ring scanners, like Zebra’s RS5000x, are tiny powerhouses worn on a single finger, leaving both hands free to handle materials. The RS5000x is a corded model that offers split-second scanning of any barcode in virtually any condition – including printed barcodes that are scratched, dirty, poorly printed and even under shrinkwrap or frost.
It also features the lowest operating temperature range in its class (-30C), meaning it has workers covered from the freezer to the floor in warehouses, manufacturing plants and retail backrooms.
Meanwhile, there are cordless models like the RS5100 and RS6100 that don’t require any cables to the host device, giving workers an even greater level of flexibility. These tiny and practically weightless devices can be worn on either the back of the hand or the finger, and can be paired with practically any Bluetooth host device, including smartphones, tablets and PCs. Both the RS5100 and RS6100 can support back-to-back shifts without recharging — just swap the batteries to keep them out of the charger and on the fingers of your workers.
For pairing with a mobile computer, consider a large advanced model that can be worn on either the wrist or arm, like Zebra’s WT6400. The WT6400 brings a new level of comfort, flexibility and ease of use to workers picking orders, sorting goods and managing inventory in the warehouse, distribution centre and manufacturing plant. With an extra-large touchscreen display area, the WT6400 is perfect for workers who need to view lots of information on their device. Featuring an integrated keypad positioned under the display, these devices bring a new level of flexibility to workflows that require manual data entry while wearing gloves. Designed for use in just about any environment, the screen works when wet, with heavy gloves and in the freezer – and the device is drop-proof, tumble-proof, waterproof and dustproof.
The combination of the WT6400 with the RS5000x offers the ultimate wearable computing solution for cold chain environments, specifically designed to enhance productivity and optimise workflow efficiency in demanding operations. For environments that do not require such extreme freezer conditions, you can opt for the WT6400 paired with the RS5100 for short-range scanning needs or the WT6400 paired with the RS6100, which provides an extended scan range of up to 12.2 meters. These tailored solutions ensure maximum efficiency and adaptability for a variety of operational requirements.
The takeaway
As the need for a more responsive and flexible workforce intensifies, many businesses are turning to wearable technology to bridge the gap. With a wide range of use cases and formats, Zebra has a wearable device for every situation and price point.
Learn more about Zebra’s wearable portfolio here.
