Japanese firms using ICT devices to achieve greater accuracy

The use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has made solutions of problems more accurate and transparent in this modern era.

Be it the service sector or retail, the timely and correct delivery of information is essential for business growth.

Japan's Yamato Transport started the use of bar-code scanning in 1976 when it launched the TA-Q-BIN Courier Service.

A better way of information management, it was to make the system perfect for courier service.

With the correct delivery data available online, customers can now check whether the parcel has been e delivered at the designated time.

The device helps to improve service quality for the customers.

Yuji Kuwabara of the Yamato Transport Co. Ltd. said: "This is an input device, a cellular phone and a printer on my waist. We always carry these three devices on delivery. This device is locked automatically. We must protect customer's information. I can only unlock the device with my personal tag. First, before taking out these parcels on to track, I use the device to record information of "checking out", then before going out for delivery, I send the record information to computer. Information will be sent wirelessly."

The gadgets help the delivery boy to transport box on accurate date and time.

It helps to reduce any mistake to happen.

Kuwabara further added: "If the customer was not available and the parcel could not be delivered, email of delivery notice will be sent to the customer. Customer can ask for re-delivery. Also, I can print a sticker with receipt number. Customer can track record and request re-deliver by receiving this number in this home mail box."

In retail too, the use of Information and Communication Technology has made life easier.

Convenience store franchise, MINISTOP is been developing system since they established in more than 30 years ago in Japan.

Earlier, all the transactions, ordering and calculations were handled manually.

Now, MINISTOP is aiming for the innovations and started to adopt various ICT devices for more efficient and smooth operations.

Takahisa Saitoh, Manager, Overseas Division, MINISTOP Co Ltd. said: "In convenience story, there must be multiple staffs placing orders at a time. Each of them is responsible for store and sales management. That's why every one of them uses a tablet device to manage the store and order status. If the store person has to go back to the office every time they make order, it is very inconvenient. By using this tablet handheld device, it is possible to manage everything from placing an order, analyzing sales, managing stock items and operating sales in the store at the same time."

Businesses across the world are making optimum use of Information and Communication Technology to enhance their efficiency.