Use Case

Pharmacy device consolidation for daily workflows


Retail pharmacy operations suffer from device sprawl and fragmented workflows, significantly hindering daily tasks. The Zebra EM45 RFID and Zebra OneCare resolve these challenges by unifying communications and data capture, creating a streamlined operational ecosystem.

A pharmacy technician uses a Zebra EM45 RFID reader with a mobile computer for data capture and inventory management in a retail pharmacy.

Overcoming pharmacy device sprawl

Retail pharmacy associates rely on multiple devices to complete their daily duties, leading to severe device sprawl. They juggle consumer grade smartphones for communication alongside separate enterprise devices for operational tasks. This fragmented hardware landscape creates disconnected workflows and drastically increases information technology management overhead. Furthermore, these older setups lack built-in readiness for modern initiatives like advanced inventory tracking, leaving pharmacies struggling to keep pace with evolving consumer demands and critical healthcare requirements.

The negative consequences of these fragmented workflows are substantial. Pharmacies experience high costs due to managing and replacing excessive hardware fleets. Associates face operational bottlenecks when switching between tools, which slows down patient service and leads to customer dissatisfaction. Ultimately, lost revenue and reduced productivity prevent the business from scaling efficiently or providing the best possible healthcare experience.

The device sprawl and fragmented workflows solution

To overcome excessive hardware fragmentation, the Zebra EM45 RFID and Zebra OneCare deliver a unified working environment. By deploying the correct hardware paired with comprehensive support services, retail pharmacies consolidate their communication and operational workflows. The Zebra EM45 RFID and Zebra OneCare work together seamlessly to enable a smartphone takeover that improves overall operational efficiency. This combination provides precise on the go inventory tracking while minimizing the risk of downtime or workflow interruptions on the busy retail floor.

Potential benefits

Replacing fragmented hardware with unified Zebra solutions shifts the focus from managing technology to serving customers. Pharmacies realize significant operational improvements and measurable business outcomes that directly support their strategic growth and daily retail efficiency.

Consolidated device functionalities

reduce the reliance on multiple consumer-grade smartphones and legacy scanners

Decreased overhead 

by simplifying the technology stack and reducing the burden on internal teams

Precise inventory tracking

by bringing accurate RFID capabilities directly to the retail floor

Minimized workflow interruptions

by providing comprehensive repair coverage 

How the solution works

A pharmacist uses a Zebra EM45 mobile computer to manage data and inventory in a retail pharmacy setting.

Consolidate communications and scanning tools

EM45 RFID acts as the associate’s single workflow device, replacing multiple phones, scanners, and RFID tools that slow down daily pharmacy operations. Its smartphone-like form factor minimizes the learning curve for associates. It combines an enterprise grade scanner for receiving goods, cellular and wireless telephony for staff communication, and an integrated RFID reader. By bringing data capture capabilities and mobility into one device, the EM45 RFID helps pharmacies reduce tool switching, improve inventory visibility, and keep associates focused on faster, more reliable patient service.

Protect operations and minimize device downtime

With associates relying on a unified tool, a breakdown stops their workflow completely. Zebra OneCare supports the hardware by offering comprehensive repair coverage for accidental drops on the pharmacy floor. It provides next day replacement to eliminate the risk of extended downtime. Access to expert technical support and software updates keeps the technology running securely. Maintaining the fleet proactively is the best way to extend device life, prevent disruptions, and keep the staff focused on patient care.

Operational excellence across the retail floor

Investing in a unified hardware approach significantly lowers long term operational expenses and resolves workflow bottlenecks. The consolidated technology stack empowers associates to perform their tasks faster, elevating patient experience and driving overall retail profitability.

Let's discuss how Zebra's solution can work for you

Note:

Use case figures, savings estimates and images are illustrative only and may be derived from customer data, projections, or controlled testing. They do not represent guaranteed results, and actual outcomes will vary by application; customers should consult a Zebra sales representative to evaluate their specific environment.