Voice picking

What is voice picking?

Voice picking is a hands-free warehouse technology that uses headsets, speech recognition and voice commands to guide operators through order fulfillment tasks.

Voice picking technology improves safety and increases productivity by allowing operators to move around the warehouse with their hands free and eyes up.

How warehouse voice picking works

Voice picking software integrates with existing warehouse management systems (WMS). It uses middleware to translate pick tasks into verbal instructions.

Operators wear headsets that communicate these instructions. Speech recognition means they can respond verbally to confirm quantities, codes and status updates.

The voice picking process looks like this:

  1. The headset announces a location

  2. The operator travels to the location and confirms arrival by reading the relevant check digit

  3. The headset announces the product and quantity

  4. The operator selects items and verbally confirms the quantity collected

  5. The system flags discrepancies as they arise, prompting investigation before allowing the picker to proceed

Voice picking software understands multiple languages and accents. It adapts to individual speech patterns, ensuring accurate communication between operators and the system.

Benefits of voice picking technology

Increased productivity

Hands-free headsets mean operators don't have to pause to scan barcodes or look at paper lists. This leads to more efficient working, while verbal verification catches errors early.

Safety improvements

Operators navigate the warehouse with their hands free and eyes up. They can therefore avoid obstacles and maintain proper lifting posture, reducing accidents and musculoskeletal injuries.

Training efficiency

New employees don't have to spend weeks memorizing locations and procedures. The system walks them through tasks step-by-step, providing real-time coaching and correction.