Wearable Tech’s Big Potential
There is no doubt that wearable tech has become an increasingly popular market. In fact, consumer spending on wearables is expected to reach $54 billion in 2023. Wearables have gained traction by making information more readily accessible and convenient through intuitive features. Similarly, these same features provide incredible value to workers in operations by boosting productivity and reducing errors. Furthermore, the workforce seems as excited about wearables as consumers are. In a survey of 500 full and part-time workers, over half are excited about new tech and 35% hope their employers start implementing new technology soon. Not only would wearable tech make tasks easier on workers but it can be a useful tool for managers to monitor productivity and even the well-being of their workforce.
Benefits Of Wearable Tech
Mobile devices can often be burdensome when you need to set them down to pack or move products. However, wearable tech solves this problem while delivering many other benefits:
- Efficient and easy-to-manage order picking in retail and warehouses.
- Accurate, quick scanning with full use of hands in load/unload operations.
- Eliminate wasted movements between handling devices and completing tasks.
- Navigating workflow hands-free.
- Improve employee concentration toward tasks and eliminate errors.
Wearable Tech by Honeywell
Wearable tech has a promising future as a solution in warehousing and logistics. In fact, the early stage of wearable tech is already being implemented. Warehouses, DCs, and Logistics centers have already widely incorporated wearable finger scanners, armbands for mobile computing, and headsets with voice direction. Our partner Honeywell has been a leader in designing ergonomic and more efficient hardware for operations.
8670 Wireless Ring Scanner
This is a lightweight scanner that can handle 1D and 2D barcodes as well as poor-quality barcodes. Additionally, these small scanners have incredible ruggedness and handle extreme conditions found in warehouse environments.
Wearable Computers
8680i Wearable Mini Mobile Computer
The 868oi is a lightweight, ergonomic scanner capable of long usage with its advanced battery. Most importantly, the device can be wrapped around two fingers. As a result, employees always have both hands available and don’t have to keep track of where they put their mobile devices after they were engaged in a manual task. This device is perfect for load/unload operations where employees scan and handle a high volume of boxes.
Dolphin 70e and 75e Computers
These devices combine the 86020 ring scanner with a comfortable armband to house mobile devices. The Dolphin wearable computers fit comfortably and free employees from the burdensome task of managing their mobile devices along with merchandise. For this reason, armbands are well-suited for high-volume picking and packing operations.
SRX-SL Headset
This device is suited for situations that require quick-time customer response. The device delivers dependable voice direction while ensuring comfort for extended use.
Looking Forward
In summary, the implementation and use of wearables are set to increase in the coming years. Wearable tech has proven to be effective in improving productivity by simplifying employee workflow and reducing errors as a result. Looking forward, the industry can expect even more developments in wearable tech as companies expand into using HUD, voice activation, and augmented reality to further drive the productivity of their workforce.