in-store micro-fulfillment<\/a> system we created for a global retail client. That post offered a detailed look at the solution, but didn\u2019t cover the critical question of how to train the in-store workers that would operate the system.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt’s a key consideration for any automation system, but can prove to be an even bigger challenge for micro-fulfillment operations. Here’s why:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Warehouse labor generally benefits from an established training regimen and accessibility to experts in the warehouse that can efficiently bring new talent up to speed. But in-store systems don\u2019t typically share in that luxury. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In-store workers may not have even had warehouse experience before, and trainers may be few and far between. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To compound the issue, micro-fulfillment operations rely on small production footprints to maximize operational efficiencies. Consequently, dedicating production space to worker training can mean losing significant operational efficiency every time a worker needs training. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this example, production efficiency would drop by 50% were a worker to be trained in the goods-to-person station every time a worker needed to be trained. And given increasing labor turnover rates, the need for continuously training new workers would seriously compromise the efficiency of the entire micro-fulfillment operation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So how can you offer hands-on training without compromising the production environment?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Two words: Virtual reality. <\/p>\n\n\n\n