Improving productivity with rugged devices
13 March 2023
Technology has enabled many industries and businesses to
increase their work performance, streamline processes, boost efficiencies and
improve productivity. Especially key in industrial environments, the technology
needs to be able to handle the challenging conditions and be relied on to keep
operations going.
Many businesses are choosing rugged devices as they are
versatile and built to last. Rugged devices also come in a range of different
models ensuring there is an option that is perfectly suited to every
environment. But why are rugged devices key for improving productivity?
How do rugged devices improve productivity?
Thanks to their reliability and durability, rugged devices
are beneficial for many businesses in manufacturing, warehouses, cold storage and
logistics. A key benefit of these toughened devices is increased productivity
through reduced paperwork, accurate data collection and keeping your business
connected.
Data collection
The increased levels of accuracy within data collection are
key to productivity. There are some rugged devices that have barcode scanners
to correctly identify and collect information on a product during stock checks
or inventory picking. As well as this, some rugged devices help data collection
by automatically sharing the data collected with the back office which reduces
the need to transfer data from pen and paper to a system. Not only does it
reduce human error and extra work, but it also means all data can be centrally
stored and analysed, saving time and money for the business.
Connectivity
In recent years, rugged devices have continued to develop
and many now can connect warehouse or field staff with back office staff to
facilitate information sharing. No matter where staff are, the ability to have
real-time updates and revised work orders keep everyone connected; this saves
time and increases productivity by reducing administration and the need for
other methods of communication.
Durability
Being durable enough to work in the most demanding of environments,
as well as to survive drops and bumps, rugged devices are more reliable in
delivering operational productivity compared to consumer devices. The endurance of rugged devices means they are
unlikely to be damaged or require downtime for maintenance, and their
continuous operation means that staff have the tools to effectively carry out
their work.
Productivity by rugged device
Although all rugged devices help to increase productivity,
there is a range of options to choose from and some suit certain environments
and sectors better than others.
Rugged handhelds
Designed to keep your business connected in the most extreme
conditions, rugged handhelds offer toughened touchscreens and data collection capabilities whilst
streamlining operations and increasing data collection accuracy.
Within a warehouse, rugged handhelds are often a popular
choice for stock checks as they allow the operator to collect accurate
inventory levels without the need for paperwork or manual data collection.
Similarly, handheld devices in the cold store sector increase efficiency and
productivity as they can be used even when wearing gloves, saving the team from
constantly removing and replacing their gloves.
Rugged truck mounts
Built to revitalise your operations, truck mounts
offer wireless connections and fast processors to ensure your business can stay
connected. Their robust nature also helps reduce downtime and increase
productivity.
Ideal for any truck-based operation within a warehouse,
manufacturing or logistics environment, a rugged truck mount is designed to
maximise efficiencies and seamlessly integrate into operations. Whether it’s
used in a forklift or reach truck, a rugged truck mount device can remove
paperwork and inefficient processes and ensure your operation is more
productive and cost-effective.
Rugged wearables
A top-performing hands-free solution, the rugged wearable
can handle a range of operations and is built to ensure wearable comfort.
Depending on the device, some wearables also come with the additional
functionality of keypads and ring barcode scanners.
Leaving hands unobscured, these rugged devices are excellent
in a warehouse environment when it comes to sorting, picking and packing
smaller goods that require the operator to use manual handling. Alternatively,
in manufacturing, wearables help increase productivity by allowing the user to
safely conduct quality checks or handle supplies.
How we can help
At TouchStar, we have been managing rugged mobile computers
for over 30 years, including rugged handhelds, truck mounts, wearables, and
barcode scanners. We have a wide range of high-performance products that
seamlessly integrate with your existing systems to increase productivity. Contact us today
to find out more.