JOHN LEWIS SELECTS VOITEQ TO PROVIDE VOICE PICKING

VoiteQ, the UKs largest software supplier of voice recognition applications for warehouse and distribution companies has been selected to supply up to 200 Talkman T5 Terminals and accessories to department store John Lewis.

The decision to install voice technology from VoiteQ was taken by John Lewis as part of their nationwide roll-out of the RedPrairie warehouse and labour management solutions.

RedPrairie was selected in mid-2005 by John Lewis to install a new state of the art warehouse management system (WMS) DLx Warehouse. John Lewis existing WMS is over 18 years old and relies on a paper-based picking system. As part of this project, John Lewis chose to use voice technology for hands-free, eyes-free voice directed warehouse picking.

Sue Thorburn, WMS Development Manager John Lewis, comments, We wanted an up-to-date WMS system that would allow us to efficiently and effectively manage our warehouses. Voice technology has proven to be an effective way of streamlining picking and increasing productivity. I am confident that adding voice, in particular the new T5 terminals, to our new WMS will provide us with real business benefits.

The Talkman device consists of a securely fastened belt unit and headset. Instructions for the operatives picking are sent over the RF network by the WMS to the voice device. The device recognises voice patterns and sounds so it can recognise any language or dialect. The operators response then automatically ensures that stock records in DLx Warehouse are updated instantly.

The installation at John Lewis will be the first Talkman T5 Terminals in a UK warehouse. The Talkman T5 is a smaller and lighter device than any other dedicated voice terminal making it easier for pickers to use. It also has a number of additional functionalities; auto logon means that each device will immediately recognise the individual warehouse operative as soon as he speaks into it therefore reducing the time it takes to begin picking at the start of a shift. The T5 also features Bluetooth capability allowing wireless connection between headset and terminal and also between terminal and external devices such as printers and scanners.

John Lewis chose RedPrairies solution suite to streamline operations in its distribution centres. The new WMS, DLx Warehouse, will enable John Lewis to increase productivity and accuracy as it expands storage capacity and grows shop numbers over the next 10 years. DLx Warehouses integrated voice software controls all voice activities by interfacing into the Talkman T5 hardware from VoiteQ.

Martin Hiscox, EMEA and APAC Leader, RedPrairie commented, As a trusted partner we had no hesitation in recommending VoiteQ for this project. They have a long and successful proven track record for successfully deploying voice technology and they also have exceptional technical experience and knowledge which is vital.