The stipulation to change as little as possible in the existing WMS was an essential factor for Dematic. A Dematic WMS is used at the Mannheim site. A WMS made by an outside provider which required adaptations is in use at the Heilbronn distribution center.

The changeover to a speech-based process has the advantage that warehouse positions and pallets no longer have to be scanned: they are confirmed by test numbers. The order-picker’s two hands stay free for order-picking. This means that the pick performance is increased and the order-picker can dedicate his full attention to removing the goods. Because the interfaces for the data terminals are also supported in parallel to the new interfaces for the voice terminals, the old systems can continue to be used or called on as a back-up solution if necessary.  

The I-point solution was implemented so that staff register conspicuous features such as pallet shape, damaged goods or contaminations via speech input. This ensures that the quality test can be completed quickly and the shortcomings that arise are recorded for rectification in the system. Unilever therefore acquires a database that enables it to document errors and acts as a foundation for discussions with suppliers and service providers.

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