The Book Service
TBS Ltd is the UK’s leading book distributor, delivering over 100 million units, each year. A fully owned subsidiary of the Random House group, it achieves an overall market share of 14 per cent.
With a legacy, paper ticket-based picking system in place for a period of some years, there was potential for the organisation to realise significant operational advantages through the introduction of a new system.
In order to update an ageing paper-based order picking system, TBS partnered with industrial computing specialist Psion, alongside technology provider Vocollect Inc. Dorset Software was chosen to provide technical support for the incoming automated voice warehouse picking solution.
TBS recognised a need to enhance accuracy and efficiency within its warehouse operations. Increased visibility over work trends would also permit swift and intelligent responses.
It was decided that a mobile handset based voice picking system would address these concerns most effectively. A recognised return on investment was envisioned within just 18 months.
Technology Snapshot
The voice picking solution is developed using Microsoft ASP.NET technologies, connecting to a central SQL Server database.
“TBS found that there was a high level of comfort with Dorset Software, as calls were logged and resolved on time, providing a very good level of service.”
Ian Cottee, Operations Development Manager, TBS
