Pick to Voice is one of the many recommended methods used in Forward Pick Zones in Distribution Centers. This technology often takes the place of paper pick lists and sometimes even RF Bar Code Terminals. The main advantage of using voice is that it keeps the Picking operation hands free. This is especially important given the nature of handling large boxes or counting out smaller items.
Both paper lists and Bar Code terminals are easily misplaced and dropped. The time taken to put a Bar Code Terminal in a holster and grab it back out can add significant time to each Pick. Voice is the ideal solution for picking in a freezer where the pickers' hands are usually gloved.
Where does Voice fit in with other Forward Picking Technologies such as Pick-To-Light, AS/RS, Carousels, etc…? It is great when dealing with Full Cases being sent direct to shipping or picking large items onto a pallet.
In other scenarios (with smaller and/or high-velocity items), voice is adequate but not as good as some other choices. It is sort of like the jack-of-all-trades-master-of- …(well, see above) Certain industries, especially grocery distribution, voice is ideal for up to 90% of their operation.
Both the software and hardware for voice has significantly improved over the last thirty years. Background noise, language recognition, and the common cold are much smaller obstacles than they were in years past.
Standard Sequence of Operation (SOP)
User logs on to software using the headset
The software either knows where that user is assigned or asks the user where they will be picking and for what order(s)
The headset instructs the picker to the first location
User reads off the Check Digit for that location and after the software verifies it gives the User the Quantity to Pick
User verifies the Quantity or performs a Special function (Short Pick, Close Box, etc…)
The software moves on to the next Pick
In a nutshell, Pick to Voice provides improvements in accuracy and efficiency without a large investment. It has its place alongside the other technologies ScottTech helps its customers deploy to cut the big-budget operating cost of labor inside the warehouse.