Giving Voice To Rugged Devices For A Hands-Free World

There are many situations where a traditional handheld or larger computing device is impractical, or worse, downright dangerous. Workers interacting with hazardous equipment need both hands available to concentrate on the task at hand. Workers that must wear protective gear, whether in hazardous chemical environments or due to extreme temperatures, cannot easily interact with traditional computing devices via a normal input mechanism (e.g., keyboard, tablet).

Benefits of a Wearable Device

In the world of real time business, collecting data is required to produce the most efficient processes to maximize corporate assets and return on investment. Replacing paper based systems, which are still prevalent in many companies, provides better control and efficiency and may help companies produce more with often limited resources. This allows each worker to be more efficient and effective at the task at hand. Doing more with less directly affects the bottom line of the company and provides a real and continuous payback,mitigating the expense of deploying ruggedized devices for automating the process. Specific benefits include:

• Staying connected over wireless networks allowing real time data updates to workers for better workforce management and increased worker productivity
• Increasing worker satisfaction
• More accurate work product (e.g., sorting and picking)
• Allowing worker dispatching and work information updating for better resource utilization
• Eliminating worker safety risks by keeping both hands on the job and limiting distractions
• Automating the acquisition of data and updating of back office systems to maximize the value chain and minimize downtimes
• Choosing compatible peripherals to enhance the user data acquisition and collection methods (e.g., bar code scanning, RFID, headset for voice input/output and communications, printers)