Investigating the performance of the order-picking process by using smart glasses : a laboratory experimental approach

Background: Order picking process is critical for accurate and efficient order fulfilment. Pick-by-vision is a promising technology that may support order picking process, however there is still a limited amount of research concerning the impact of this technology on the performance of order-picking. The purpose of this paper is to investigate certain operational and technical parameters that affect the performance of pick-by-vision technology in item-level order picking via a series of laboratory tests. Methods: A systematic literature review is conducted for the identification of parameters that affect pick-by-vision performance. Subsequently, the analytical hierarchy process is adopted to rank these parameters, concerning their impact on order picking. Then, the design of experiment and NASA task load index methodology are implemented for assessing pick-by-vision efficiency and perceived workload. Results: The results reveal the parameters that significantly affect the performance of the pick-by-vision system, as well as the best configuration of parameters for the implementation of the proposed system in real environments. Conclusions: The results obtained are encouraging, showing how pick-by-vision technology can support order picking efficiency. Furthermore, practical implications are presented that deal with the organizational culture, process re-engineering, staff resistance to change, and motivation for maintaining the new way of executing order-picking processes.