Order picking transformation in manufacturing with ESL technology
From paper-based order picking to a need of change
Prido, a Swedish manufacturer with high demands on efficiency and reliability, had for many years relied on traditional paper based order picking lists in their warehouse. Large A4 printouts accompanied every order, often containing far more product information than necessary. “Previously, operators spent extra time interpreting long lists to make sure the right items were order picked,” explains the manager.
The system worked, but it took time, slowed down the process and occasionally made accuracy dependent on personal experience and interpretation. According to manager: “The idea of having the information displayed directly on the shelf was very appealing, it could save time and reduce errors.”
Discovering the flexibility of ESL
Once they began working with Opticon’s ESL system, the team quickly discovered how flexible the solution was. “What really surprised us was how quickly everything fell into place,” the manager says. Even without extensive step-by-step instructions at the start, they found multiple ways to implement it. By experimenting with different configurations and asking targeted questions when needed, they adapted the solution to fit their existing workflows instead of changing their workflows to fit the technology. The system proved far more adaptable than expected, making it possible to fine-tune the order picking process with minimal effort.
“The idea of having information displayed directly on the shelf was very appealing, it saves time and reduces errors.
What really surprised us was how quickly everything fell into place. The system supports our circular order-picking route perfectly; everything flows naturally, and operators no longer have to interpret long lists or search for information.
It’s a flexible and powerful solution where only the imagination sets the limits.”
Nicholas Måblad,
IT-Manager Prido
A fully integrated daily operation
Today, the solution is fully integrated into their daily operations. A warehouse operator simply selects an order on the screen, and then the ESL tags are update throughout the warehouse. “The system supports our circular order picking route perfectly,” says the manager. “Everything flows naturally, and operators no longer have to interpret long lists or search for information.” Each label displays exactly which items need to be order picked for that specific order. The ESL technology now supports a natural, structured flow. The result is a work environment that feels faster, clearer and more intuitive than before.
The impact on staff has been immediate and positive. Employees report that order picking has become faster and more intuitive, and management observes a noticeable improvement in accuracy. Technically, the system has also exceeded expectations: connectivity between the labels and the base station has been stable, and battery life has been exceptional. “Since implementation, we haven’t had to replace a single battery,” the manager adds.
Future possibilities
Beyond the improvements in order picking, Prido already sees new possibilities for ESL technology. Because the system is highly flexible and easy to adapt, they are exploring potential use cases in other parts of the warehouse and internal processes, including inventory visibility, internal signage and supporting material flow. The technology opened more opportunities than expected, and the team believes they have only begun to explore what is possible.
A clear recommendation to other warehouses
When asked what they would say to other managers who are considering digitalizing their operations, Prido’s message is clear: “It is a flexible and powerful solution where only the imagination sets the limits.” The system is easy to install, simple to administer and can be tailored to almost any workflow. For warehouses that want to improve efficiency without complex installations or major operational changes, Prido’s experience shows that Opticon’s ESL solution offers a smooth, practical and future-proof way forward.
