John Lewis gets its warehouses to talk

Retailer John Lewis is introducing voice recognition-based stock picking in its warehouses to improve efficiency and accuracy.

The department store is rolling out up to 200 Talkman T5 Terminals and accessories as part of an overhaul of its warehouse and labour management systems.

The RedPrairie warehouse management system will replace a system that was more than 18-years-old and can incorporate VoiteQ voice technology.

Staff will be able to use the belt unit and headset for hands-free, eyes-free voice directed warehouse picking. The operator’s response ensures that stock records are updated instantly.

John Lewis WMS development manager Sue Thorburn said: ‘We wanted an up-to-date WMS system to efficiently and effectively manage our warehouses.

‘Voice technology has proven to be an effective way of streamlining picking and increasing productivity and I am confident that adding voice to our new WMS will provide us with real business benefits.’

The technology has a number of additional functions including auto logon so each device will immediately recognise the individual warehouse operative as soon as he speaks. Bluetooth capability also allows wireless connection between the headset and terminal.

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