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Published on September 10, 2007

In the incidents of wrong deliveries, the investigating team traced them to the misreading of color codes by human handlers.  Nippon Paint produces about 1,000 tonnes of paint every month. Since there are literally hundreds of colors (with each having a unique color code) and various types of paints, in varied volume containers (1, 5, 7, and 20 liters respectively), the task of managing the process workflow and production can be daunting on human handlers, many of whom are older workers.

Nippon Paint started to make some simple changes in early 2006, by implementing an Intermec barcoding system to its operations in Singapore, with the support from Intermec's partner MuRho. Nippon Paint's goal was to improve the accuracy of paint delivery, while reducing administrative work.

"We studied our options for more than two years and evaluated several brands before making a decision to standardize on Intermec. The service commitment, support and enthusiasm of MuRho, an Intermec partner, are what we were looking for. Moreover, the trial went smoothly and confirmed our decision," said Christine Fong, senior manager, Nippon Paint Singapore.

Using Intermec's MobileLAN WA22 wireless LAN access point, with Intermec 730 and Intermec 730 i-Safe handheld mobile computers, Nippon Paint redesigned the 5- stage work process with the use of technology; manufacturing, item movement from production to logistics, stock-taking, selection and loading. The process is now barcoded and automatically integrated from where packing begins, and ending when the goods leave the factory premises.

Currently, 27% of the 128 employees in Nippon Paint are between the ages of 40 and 49, and 32% are aged 50 and above. The company intends to keep these workers in the company for as long as possible, and even introduced a Re-employment of Retirees Policy, which rehires workers aged 62 and above on an annual contract, which can be renewed each year based on their ability to perform.

Fong added, "Many of our workers have been with us for more than 20 years, with valuable experiences that we should harness."

The barcoding system and easy to use Intermec handheld mobile computers enable logistics assistants to scan the codes at one click instead of relying on their eyesight to identify items manually, a usual cause for errors. The system has increased the worker's efficiency and improved the productivity of the company. The system also reduces time required to train new staff, and ensures more consistent work processes regardless of staff experience.