As supply chains become faster and more complicated, and customer expectations become harder to meet, traditional picking methods are being replaced with smarter, more streamlined solutions. Voice directed warehousing (VDW) is transforming how modern warehouses operate, helping logistics businesses improve their efficiency, accuracy and overall performance.
In this detailed guide, put together by the logistics and warehousing experts here at LTS Global Solutions, we’ll explain what voice directed warehousing is, how voice picking works and where it can best be applied. We’ll also explore the key benefits and when it might be the right solution for you.
What is Voice Directed Warehousing?
Voice directed warehousing (VDW), which can also be called voice picking or pick-by-voice, is a smart system that uses audio prompts and voice recognition technology to guide warehouse workers through their tasks, such as picking. Instead of relying on traditional paper pick lists or handheld scanners, operatives receive spoken instructions through a wearable headset.
These instructions tell each operator exactly where to go, what item to pick and how many units are required. The worker then confirms that they have completed each action by speaking back to the system through the headset microphone, most often using simple voice commands or by reading out location or item codes. The VDW system then processes this information in real time using automatic speech recognition software.
The process is completely hands-free and eyes-free, meaning that each worker can fully focus on their tasks. This has been shown to significantly reduce distractions and mistakes while improving both speed and accuracy. Voice directed warehousing is typically integrated with a warehouse management system (WMS), allowing you to maintain full visibility and control over inventory.
How Does Voice Picking Work?
So we’ve looked at what VDW is, but how might a typical instruction look in practice? Here’s a step-by-step example of a single process loop that an operative would receive as part of their daily tasks.
- An order is received through the warehouse management system and is processed, ready to be picked.
- The system assigns the task to the next available operative, who will be wearing a VDW headset and microphone.
- The operative receives computer-generated verbal instructions, directing them to a specific location in the warehouse.
- When the worker arrives at the SKU location, they confirm it to the system by reading out a location or item code.
- The system uses sophisticated voice recognition to understand the worker, then provides details of the item and quantity to be picked.
- The operative then completes the pick and confirms this action back to the system verbally, meaning their hands and eyes remain free throughout.
- The system then updates the action and stock levels in real time and directs the worker to their next task.
- Pick routes can be optimised automatically to reduce travel time and improve overall efficiency.
- As each step is confirmed in real time, the system can keep accurate data for each pick, location and SKU, significantly increasing consistency and accuracy.
Applications of Voice Directed Warehousing
Voice directed warehousing has its roots in the early 1990s, and the technology has developed over the years into a very powerful, multi-faceted system. It can do a lot more than guiding picking in fulfilment warehouses.
VDW can be applied across a wide range of warehouse operations, helping to streamline the entire process, from goods-in to dispatch. Some of the most common applications include:
- Goods Receiving and Storage: The system can guide operatives through unloading deliveries, checking stock and placing items into the correct locations, supporting efficient warehousing and storage processes.
- Order Picking and Fulfilment: The most widely used VDW application, where voice instructions direct operatives to pick items quickly and accurately as part of the fulfilment process, as we’ve outlined above.
- Packing and Relabelling: Voice systems can assist with tasks like quality control checks, as well as relabelling and packing requirements, to ensure all orders are prepared efficiently and accurately.
- Pallet Handling: In high-volume, fast turnover environments, voice guidance can improve the speed and accuracy of pallet storage and mass stock movement.
- Specialist Storage Environments: Voice picking can be particularly useful in settings such as ambient storage and food warehousing, where fewer distractions and hands-free operation can improve safety and efficiency.
- Loading and Dispatch: Operatives can be guided through vehicle loading at the end of the process, too, ensuring the correct goods are sent out in the right sequence on each vehicle.
The system is more than capable of managing a warehouse from end-to-end, giving you greater control and visibility of stock and movements across your entire business.
Benefits of Voice Directed Warehousing
Customer Satisfaction
Faster, more accurate order fulfilment means customers receive the right products on time. By reducing delays and errors, VDW helps improve reliability, which builds trust and long-term customer happiness.
Fewer Errors
Voice prompts and real-time confirmations lessen the risk of human error during picking and handling. Because each step is verified as it happens, mistakes like incorrect items and pick quantities are minimised.
Better Accuracy
Whether picking, putting away or moving stock, the clear instructions and step-by-step verbal confirmations of a VDW system help with accuracy across your entire warehouse, keeping records reliable and orders fulfilled correctly.
Safer Warehousing
Because these systems free up hands and keep eyes free from distractions (such as checking manual pick lists), workers can stay more focused on tasks and their surroundings. This helps lower the risk of accidents and encourages safer working.
More Flexibility
Voice systems have been around for a long time, and have been successfully adapted to suit different workflows, products and layouts. This flexibility makes it easier to respond to changing demand, seasonal peaks or new requirements.
Shorter Training Time
Because voice picking uses simple, intuitive instructions, new starters will find it easier to learn. Without complex manual systems or paperwork to understand, operatives can become productive more quickly.
Higher Productivity
By removing the need to handle paperwork or devices, operatives can work faster and more efficiently. Optimised routes and real-time instructions help reduce downtime, allowing more tasks to be completed within the same timeframe.
Employee Satisfaction
Simplified workflows and reduced physical strain create a more comfortable working environment. When tasks are easier to follow and less repetitive, employees are more likely to feel engaged, confident and satisfied.
ROI and Cost Savings
The points we’ve discussed here, such as improved productivity, fewer errors and reduced training times, all contribute to a good return on your investment. Over time, these efficiencies help lower costs while increasing overall performance.
When Should Voice Directed Warehousing Be Implemented?
There’s no right or wrong time to move to voice directed warehousing, but some businesses consider it when their operation is beginning to grow in complexity, order numbers are rising quickly or accuracy issues are having a major impact on efficiency and customer service.
If you’re already asking “what is voice picking” in the context of improving efficiency at your warehouse, it’s likely the right time to think about it now.
Warehousing & Storage Solutions at LTS
Voice directed warehousing is just one example of how technology can transform your warehouse, improving accuracy, efficiency and overall performance across your supply chain.
At LTS Global Solutions, we deliver flexible, reliable solutions across logistics, transport and shipping, supported by tailored warehousing and storage services including pallet storage, food warehousing and ambient storage. With a reputation built on strong customer service and fast, flexible, responsive support, we’re here to act as a trusted extension of your business, working around your requirements and exceeding your expectations.
To talk to our experts and find out more about how we can support you, get in touch with us today on 0121 753 0080, email info@ltsglobalsolutions.com or fill out our online contact form.
