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Can you imagine managing a warehouse without needing to look at screens or labels? With voice picking, this idea becomes a reality.
This technology, which uses voice commands to guide operators in the product selection process, is revolutionizing logistics in warehouses. In this article, we’ll explain what voice picking is, how it works, some examples, and its benefits.
What is Voice Picking?
Voice picking is a technology used in warehouse management that allows operators to receive instructions through voice commands. Instead of using paper, screens, or a handheld device, workers wear headphones and a microphone connected to a system that guides them through the product picking process.
The operator listens to the instructions and, based on them, moves to the exact location where the product is stored, picks it, and confirms the action with a verbal response. All of this is done without having to look at a screen, increasing efficiency and safety in the workplace.
How Does Voice Picking Work?
Voice picking is based on a system that converts digital instructions into voice. This system connects to the warehouse database and sends commands to operators in real-time, telling them which products to pick, in what quantities, and at what location.
- Task Preparation and Assignment
When an order is received in the system, it assigns picking tasks to the operators, providing detailed information about the item to be picked. Instead of seeing this information on a screen, operators receive it through a headset. - Receiving Voice Instructions
The system sends verbal instructions to the operators, telling them the product to pick, the location, and the quantity. These instructions can be confirmed with voice commands, ensuring the operator doesn’t make mistakes. - Confirmation of Actions
Once the operator picks the product, they must confirm they have done it correctly by saying a predetermined phrase, such as “product picked.” The system validates the action, and in case of an error, provides instructions for correction.
Examples of Voice Picking
Voice picking is used in a variety of industries, especially in warehouses and distribution centers for ecommerce. Some examples include:
- Supermarket Distribution Warehouses: In these warehouses, operators receive voice instructions to pick products like food and beverages from shelves and prepare them for distribution to stores.
- Ecommerce Distribution Centers: Online businesses, such as Amazon, use voice picking to streamline the order fulfillment process, speeding up deliveries and improving shipping accuracy.
- Automotive and Spare Parts: Car manufacturers or spare parts businesses use this system to manage inventory more efficiently and fulfill orders faster.
Benefits of Voice Picking
- Increased Efficiency and Speed
One of the main benefits of voice picking is the improvement in warehouse efficiency. By receiving voice instructions, operators do not need to waste time searching for products or looking at screens. This reduces walking time within the warehouse and increases productivity. - Error Reduction
Voice picking significantly reduces human errors in the product selection process. By verbally confirming that the product is correct, the likelihood of picking the wrong item is minimized, improving order accuracy. - Improved Safety
Since operators don’t need to look at screens or papers, they can focus more on their surroundings and their task. This improves safety within the warehouse by reducing distractions and the risk of accidents. - Space Optimization in the Warehouse
Voice picking allows operators to move more quickly, optimizing the use of space within the warehouse. By traveling less distance and completing tasks faster, more stock can be managed in less time. - Improved Employee Training
Voice picking is easy to learn and allows new operators to quickly integrate into the system. Clear and simple instructions make training more effective, reducing the time needed to reach productivity.
Conclusion
Voice picking is a technology that is transforming the way warehouses are managed, enabling greater efficiency, accuracy, and safety in the order fulfillment process. With the growing demand for ecommerce and the need to optimize delivery times, voice picking is a key tool for improving the operations of any logistics center.
If you're looking to improve efficiency in your warehouse or distribution center, implementing a voice picking system might be the solution. At Amphora Logistics, we offer advanced logistics solutions that optimize the entire inventory and order management process. Contact us to learn how we can help you improve your logistics and make it more efficient with technologies like voice picking!