Regardless of the structural and procedural variations in order picking, a distinction must be made between three different basic forms of user guidance:

 

 

1- Picking based on paper (delivery note, pick lists, label tags)

Picking can be carried out offline. No decentralized or mobile computer peripherals are required, but confirmation or error handling is then delayed.

2- Online system specification (paperless picking with user guidance).

The computer determines the processing sequence. Confirmation and error handling take place immediately.

3- Online user specification (paperless picking with user decision).

The user determines the processing sequence based on system suggestions for selecting orders or pick positions. Confirmation and error handling take place immediately.

The third form offers the user maximum flexibility, but should only be used if guidance through the system is not reasonably possible.

Error handling plays an important role in picking. For example, in the event of an inventory error, a straightforward procedure must be defined that allows the picker to continue working without interruption despite the error.

Inventory replenishment often takes place before, during, or after the picking process.

For more information, see Zero Passage.

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