Boosting warehouse efficiency with augmented reality

In the fast-paced world of warehousing, efficiency is king. That's why more and more warehouses are turning toward augmented reality (AR) to take their operations to the next level. Adding a new layer of data on top of existing warehousing systems, AR technology gives managers unprecedented visibility into operations and performance metrics. And as it continues to mature, the technology will create new and smarter ways to modernize warehouses and production facilities, streamlining operations and improving performance.

What is AR?

AR is a digital technology that overlays computer-generated images and data onto real-world environments. Quickly becoming the new standard, it helps warehouse managers access real-time data on inventory levels, staff productivity, and order fulfillment (while on the move) and make decisions quickly and accurately.

The impact on warehouse operations

AR is increasingly being adopted in warehouse management due to its potential to enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and boost productivity. It's predicted that the Warehouse Management System (WMS) software market will grow by a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.5% over the next decade, according to ABI Research.

There are three main areas AR is changing warehouse operations:

• Speedy order picking

AR can slash order picking time by reading barcodes and synchronizing with integrated systems for seamless information flow. Coupled with other features such as navigation and item location, and AR can dramatically improve order picking in warehouses by saving time and reducing mistakes.

• Smarter warehouse layout

Get a bird's-eye view of logistics and distribution hubs with AR glasses. A powerful tool for analyzing warehouse layouts and making adjustments or improvements to inventory management, they allow managers to have better space utilization and workflow optimization.

• Greater visibility and asset tracking

With real-time indoor and outdoor asset tracking, warehouses can gain end-to-end supply chain visibility. Underpinned by location technology, AR allows warehouse managers to streamline and automate workflows by locating, managing, and tracking assets, people, and equipment worldwide.

Facing the future

The ability to solve supply chain challenges quickly by spotting disruptions and problems in real time is just one way AR is revolutionizing supply chains and warehousing. It's quickly becoming the new standard in the industry, bringing about global changes in warehouse operations.

As we look to the future, it's clear that AR will continue to play a significant role in warehousing. Warehouse managers can benefit from combining different solutions and implementing strong inventory management strategies, from improving order picking and layout analysis to enhancing overall efficiency.