Productivity On The Go: A Glance at the WS50 Android Wearable Computer

With today’s challenges on worker retention and connecting to disconnected front-line users, it’s important we address what UX (user experience/worker experience) really means for you and for them.

Challenges as We See Them

The number 1 challenge we are facing when it comes to labor shortages is cost. Typically, it’s onboarding and training, but did you know cumbersome devices also add to your bottom line? Additionally, if you are investing in multiple new devices without considering your workers’ needs, then it compounds the time you need to train a worker. And a surplus of devices means adding complexities to your device management plan.

To simplify some of the more pressing concerns:

Investing in big, bulky devices that may not fit into your operational health
Management complexity of managing more devices than needed
Prolonged training and spending too much time in limbo

Small Solution for Big Problems

The WS50, a newer introduction in Zebra Technologies line of wearables, can revamp the way we look at worker productivity and eliminate some of the challenges previously discussed. Of course, wearables can’t outright replace say a mobile computer, but it should be considered for various issues we face regardless of verticals.

Some advantages that work:

All-in-one scanner and mobile computer means less devices to purchase and manage
Task management, PTT (push-to-talk) voice and enterprise-class data capture
Industry standard Android OS means less of a technical barrier for new comers
Easy centralized management with leading EMMs
Smallest in its class, which makes your workers more mobile and productive

An Edge in All Industries

Maybe you can envision the WS50 in a warehouse setting, but we’re pleased to show that this device can shine in T&L, manufacturing, retail, and hospitality. For example, your T&L workforce use key applications to sort, unload/load and perform task management. In a retail space, the device applications can perform pricing/markdowns, most back of store operations and task management. Finally, in manufacturing, we can utilize it for equipment maintenance, line side replenishment, and task management.

Just the Specs

WS50 Core
Enterprise-class SE4770 imager for scan-intensive applications
Task management applications
PTT voice applications via embedded speaker and
microphone or Bluetooth headset
1300 mAh battery
6 ft./1.8 m drop specification
Finger trigger with strap

People, Process, and Technology

Investing in a digital strategy is paramount to your success, but the right device will only work if it’s right for you and your workers. Is the WS50 something you’re looking for or is there other elements we should consider? Reach out to our experts to see how Zebra Technology fit into your business!