Tablet computers are quickly becoming a standard tool for all types of organizations, from retail to restaurants, and even people who work higher up in the supply chain in warehouses.
Compared to using no device or smaller devices, tablets have the potential to increase productivity so much more.
If you haven’t yet started using tablets, like an iPad or Android device, here are several reasons to consider jumping on this trend.
1. Tablets can provide sharp visuals in any lighting
Working with small handheld device screens is common, but it’s challenging. Some people develop an aversion to using these devices in lighter areas, like outside, because they can’t see the screen. Employees generally use the tools they’re given, but that doesn’t mean those tools are supporting their workflow. If something is more of a hindrance, they may not use it at all.
When you implement tablets in your organization, consider the Zebra ET60 tablet to get a screen that works flawlessly in a variety of lighting conditions. Not only are these tablets great for outdoor use, but they are also rugged and designed to withstand accidental drops and impacts.
2. Tablets are more efficient than small handheld devices
Depending on your industry and needs, it’s possible that your small, handheld devices actually hinder productivity, despite allowing workers to be mobile. For example, your staff might roam the sales floor, helping customers find items in the back room or at other locations, but how long does it take? How many times do they misread descriptions or stock notices because of the small screen? The last thing you want is to send someone to another store for an item when they are actually out of that product.
When your team members use tablets, the bigger screen allows more of the content to be displayed at once, and the text and images are much larger. This allows staff to help customers more accurately. It’s harder to transpose numbers or read the wrong line, and they don’t have to push so many buttons to flip through search results.
3. Tablets increase inventory accuracy
Having accurate inventory counts is essential for maintaining profitability, but that can be difficult to achieve for a variety of reasons. If you’re struggling with this, tablets can improve the accuracy of your inventory counts. Again, because the screen is much bigger, there’s less chance that someone will enter counts on the wrong item or misread the numbers when checking stock levels. Tablets provide better visibility and are the next best thing to carrying around a laptop.
When needed, employees can connect their tablet to a keyboard to make typing easy when they need to fill out forms or perform searches that require more than a few taps.
4. Tablets have a better touch screen surface
Compared to handheld devices, tablets have a more sensitive touch screen surface, which allows for higher accuracy. Instead of using a stylus, workers can use their finger and not have to worry about touching the screen in the wrong spot or having to press hard to get the device to respond. Some devices even provide haptic feedback to let you know you’ve hit the right spot.
With a larger surface area and finger pressure, employees will be more productive on the back end and can provide better customer service on the floor.
5. Tablets can facilitate self-service
You may have noticed some restaurants place tablets on each table for guests to place their own orders without human interaction. Eliminating the need to wait for a server to order helps guests get their drinks and food much faster. Orders are sent directly to the kitchen where they are prepared and served sometimes five minutes faster than normal.
At the end of a meal, guests can use the tablet to pay their bill without leaving the table, which helps to speed up table turnover and decreases wait times.
When not being used to order or pay for the meal, sometimes these tablets offer games to play while you wait for your food. For businesses, this is another way to generate a little more revenue on the side.
6. Tablets can be used as digital signage
Small tablets strategically placed around a store can have a positive impact on customer buying habits, especially when they’re interactive. These tablets can increase sales and boost brand loyalty.
Increase productivity with tablets
Start increasing productivity by implementing tablets in your business. Whether they’re used by your sales floor team, inventory counts, or your customers, you’ll find that tablets provide a more accurate and pleasing experience for all.
