How Heavy-Duty Mobile Devices Can Save Money in Supply Chain

1. How Heavy-Duty Mobile Devices Can Save Money in Supply Chain Mobility has become an integral part of the supply chain process. Companies are re-imagining their supply chain by incorporating mobile technologies such as heavy-duty notebooks or ruggedized smartphones. From real-time data collection, enhanced order processing to improved visibility, there are several uses of handheld devices in the supply chain work environments. According to the survey, “Improving Supply Chain Efficiencies,” the primary applications of mobile devices in the supply chain are barcode scanning (59%), inventory tracking (56%), picking & packing (56%), shipping (56%), asset management (27%), and quality control (28%). With so many applications across a broad range of activities, supply chain workers need all-in-one handheld devices that are tough, durable, and reliable for rough environments. Having ruggedized mobile devices in a place where conditions are harsh can save a lot of money. Here is how heavy-duty notebooks and heavy-duty smartphones can save money in the supply chain: 1. Order Optimization Optimizing orders upstream can help companies make real cost savings. In a demand-driven world where everything needs to be fulfilled fast, rugged mobile devices can help to optimize supply chain strategy. Optimizing requires two-way communication between you and your suppliers, retailers, or other end customers. When workers will have rugged devices with them, they can automate data sharing. A centralized software installed in all mobile devices can be used by workers to see and analyse demand or cost concerns, optimize labor, reduce overhead costs, and more. The data gathered by the handheld devices can help you collaborate better with trading and logistics partners and ensure swift and least-cost deliveries. 2. Low Cost of Ownership Supply chain networks require barcode scanners and printers, RFID tags, GPS systems, shared logistics networks, wireless communication, and much more. With heavy-duty smartphones, you get in-built technologies that cover the entire logistics and supply chain operation. You will not have to purchase each device separately for scanning, tracking, quality control, and communication. Such handheld devices combine supreme ruggedness and powerful performance. They are durable and withstand extreme work environments. Your workers can continue to use them for years, thereby reducing the total cost of ownership as compared to traditional methods used for the supply chain management. 3. Logistics and Transportation Management Rugged mobile devices come equipped with advanced capabilities, such as 3G, 4G, LTE (long-term evolution), WiMAX infrastructure, Bluetooth connection, GPS, and more. Integrate your transportation management system and heavy-duty devices to track working hours, driver performance, optimize routes, manage schedules, analyse fuel consumption, and hours of service. This would help your in-house workers collaborate with truck drivers, dispatchers, sales personnel,

2. and receivers. It would bring efficiency in the logistics and transportation management process, which will reduce costs even further. Conclusion Equipping essential frontline workers with the necessary digital solutions and rugged handheld devices to do their jobs can help supply chain companies to become efficient, effective, and profitable. However, selecting the right rugged device is critical if you want to optimize your supply chain and save money in the long run. Panasonic’s market-leading range of rugged handheld devices, such as Toughbook 55 notebook PC, Toughbook FZ-N1 smartphone and Toughbook FZ-T1 smartphone are built to withstand the most extreme challenges in supply chain industries. Contact the team at Panasonic if you want to know more about how Toughbook could benefit your business.