Coca-Cola, Roche improve productivity with Datria’s voice-directed picking

In a roundtable executive briefing hosted by Datria Systems (Booth 4568) on Tuesday, executives from Roche Diagnostics and Coca-Cola Refreshments discussed how implementing the supplier’s voice systems boosted productivity in picking.

The session featured David Lewis, IT systems integration principal for Roche and Mike Jacks, senior manager of logistics and transportation systems for Coca-Cola. Both reviewed the key picking metrics they sought to improve, the results to date, and plans for further expansion of the technology’s use.

Coca-Cola rolled out Datria’s voice-directed picking systems in 2008 in 100 warehouses handling 15 million cases annually. Since then, the company notes significant improvements in achieving what Jacks termed “the perfect order,” (orders shipped complete, on-time, documented and damage free). Next, the company will implement the voice system into sites handling 10 million cases per year.

Roche went live with voice-directed picking in January 2011, and has already recorded efficiency improvements in order selection and replenishments. Lewis commended the flexibility of the Datria system, as Roche migrates to a new WMS in the next 12 to 18 months.

Coke’s new take on voice technology
To revitalize its distribution processes, Coca-Cola Refreshments U.S.A. implemented a VoIP-based voice technology that enables 3,000 warehouse associates in 100 facilities.

ProMat 2011 will be held March 21 - 24, 2011 at McCormick Place South in Chicago. The tradeshow will showcase the latest manufacturing, distribution and supply chain solutions in the material handling and logistics industry.

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