L’Oreal Polska approached SKK with a proposal to submit an offer for the implementation of radio terminals in its distribution warehouse in Błonie near Warsaw. It turned out to be interesting enough that L’Oreal decided to cooperate. Undoubtedly, an important advantage of the SKK offer was a very individual approach to the client’s expectations and needs, as well as taking into account in the design of the prepared implementation the capabilities of SAP/R3 – the IT system managing the warehouse in Błonie.
Work at the Distribution Center involves the daily preparation of a large number of diverse shipments directed to many recipients. The problem that the implementation was to solve was the improvement of several key warehouse operations, including the process of receiving and retail picking. Previously, warehouse employees relied on a system based on paper orders. SKK proposed a solution combining the capabilities of the Intermec CK31 handheld terminal and the functionality of the Intermec SF51 external barcode reader.
The Intermec CK31 combines the mechanical resistance characteristic of the Intermec company. It is prepared for operation in the most difficult atmospheric conditions, made with attention to ergonomics, and the ability to read codes in any orientation means that employees do not have to strain their wrists to position the scanner parallel to the code. In turn, the Intermec SF51 consists of simple and easy-to-use cigar-shaped readers that allow – after reading the product code – to free the hand and place the goods on a pallet. The use of this solution not only increases work comfort but also shortens the time needed to perform individual tasks and eliminates the risk of error. The reader can work non-stop for 12 hours (over 5,000 reads), its reading range is 0.5 meters, and its width is 18 centimeters. The scanner reads one-dimensional codes, but has the option of reading PDF codes, as well as damaged and dirty ones. Equipped with Bluetooth, it ensures wireless connectivity.
As part of the implementation, Intermec CV30 vehicle-mount terminals recommended by SKK were installed on forklifts picking up pallets, which were connected to a system communicating with a radio network based on the Cisco system. Their design allows for mounting on virtually any surface, and their small size improves forklift driver safety by improving visibility.
SKK also took care of integrating the supplied devices – readers and terminals – with the SAP/R3 system. Part of this system is the WM module, which supports the management of warehouse processes, including allowing for the planning of goods shipment in such a way as to optimize the use of available resources. In the L’Oreal warehouse, these operations are possible precisely thanks to equipping handheld and vehicle-mount terminals with barcode readers. SKK also provided Smart System software – which facilitates remote management of terminals by the administrator (via radio network) and SKK Starter, which facilitates operator navigation in the Windows Mobile system installed on the terminals and blocks user access to system functions that are not necessary for work.
Undoubtedly, the most important effect of the implementation is the improvement of warehouse work, the elimination of errors during product picking, and above all, increasing the comfort of employees.
Anna Gagaczowska
Promotion Department Manager
SKK – Systemy Kodów Kreskowych SA