A study of the order picking process at PostNord Logistic - improving the picking process by identifying factors that inhibit the prodctivity

Abstract: The goal of this study was to find factors affecting the pickers’ productivity negatively, in the order picking process, and to suggest a change that can increase the pickers’ productivity. By a qualitative approach the initial situation at PostNord was studied. The obtained results, after analyzing the initial situation, showed various factors that affect the pickers’ productivity negatively. All these contributed to waste, meaning that the picker did not use its time correctly according to Lean theory. These factors were analyzed and categorized into four problem areas, which are quality of tools, standardization of routines and leadership, article placement and jam in the corridors. Possible suggestions to improve the situation can be done with smaller or bigger changes. One solution is to improve the work procedures by standardizing the methods, which could be done by cooperating more with PEMA and using the pickers’ knowledge. Some suggestions and adjacent activities must be investigated further to find the best solutions.