News
Linfox raises productivity and accuracy through voice picking
21.09.2009
Voice-directed computing has improved efficiency and workplace safety at Linfox’s Yennora distribution centre (DC), which provides third-party logistics (3PL) services for grocery retailer Franklins.
Instead of handling and using mobile data computers (RF terminals) to read instructions and input data, Linfox’s DC workers now wear a small headset and a lightweight, voice computer attached to their waist. The workers simply listen and respond to clear, verbal commands instructing them where to go and what to pick.
A significant advantage of voice-directed computing for order picking is that it leaves the user’s hands and eyes free at all times. This makes handling and picking cartons faster and safer, with the technology delivering productivity, accuracy and OH&S benefits for Linfox since its integration by Dematic earlier this year.
Dematic implemented Vocollect’s Talkman system which seamlessly interfaces with Paperless Warehousing’s (PW’s) warehouse management system (WMS), and directs the DC’s team of up to 150 pickers through tens of thousands of work assignments every day.
Pilot Testing
Prior to implementing voice-directed computing, Dematic ran a pilot project to prove the technology would deliver productivity gains.
Dematic’s Paul Phillips, said: "We equipped 10 pickers of mixed skill and experience levels with voice picking terminals for eight weeks.
"With just a few hours of training, most of them were comfortable with the technology and soon had the hang of voice picking.
"The overall feedback was very positive. The guys really noticed the difference having their hands and eyes free makes when picking, compared to using RF Terminals.
