#Japan #Toyota Mobility #Hammock #Mito #WOZE

Transformation in Data Management at Toyota Mobility Parts

Toyota Mobility Parts Corporation's Ibaraki branch has made a significant stride in its operational efficiency by implementing the cloud-based data input service, WOZE. This move aims to streamline their data management processes, particularly for automotive parts transactions. The Ibaraki branch, located in Mito City, primarily deals with the wholesale distribution of genuine parts, supplies, and automotive products for Toyota vehicles.

As a subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, they are not just involved in parts supply but also play a vital role as a consulting entity focused on supporting the growth and improvement of Toyota dealerships and the maintenance industry in their region. This strategic implementation aligns with their mission to enhance the local car life while maintaining a strong connection with their community.

Addressing Challenges in Logistics

The logistics industry in Japan has been facing a critical shortage of truck drivers, which is projected to escalate, with an anticipated shortfall of approximately 34% in transportation capacity by 2030. In response to this pressing issue, the Japanese government has initiated plans during a ministerial meeting in February 2024, focusing on "prompt capital investments," "standardization of logistics and data coordination," and advancing logistics DX (Digital Transformation) and GX (Green Transformation).

Additionally, the after-sales parts market faces increasing demands for just-in-time logistics due to advancements in safety technology and the electrification of vehicles, necessitating enhanced efficiency and rationalization across the sector.

To tackle these challenges, the Supply Management Department's Purchasing Group decided to begin the selection process for an OCR (Optical Character Recognition) system. This advancement is part of their initiative to promote automation and reduce manual labor.

The Implementation of WOZE

Previously, the manual entry process for data entry was labor-intensive. Employees would arrive as early as 7 AM to spend around two hours entering data, followed by another team member spending over three hours reconciling delivery slips with entered information. This situation led to substantial workloads during the inventory input stage.

While the initial use of OCR systems demonstrated high recognition accuracy, they still fell short of guaranteeing 100% accuracy, with subsequent verification tasks remaining unavoidable. This highlighted a need for a more reliable solution.

Enter WOZE, which utilizes patented "WOCR" technology for high-precision AI-OCR, combined with visual checks performed by remote workers. WOZE allows only the discrepancies identified by the OCR results to be checked by remote workers, ensuring high data integrity and significantly reducing in-house verification workloads. This feature was highly appealing as it minimizes transcription errors while alleviating the verification burden on company employees, leading to a decisive choice for implementation.

After integrating WOZE, the Supply Management Department's Purchasing Group optimized their operation where data verified by remote workers covered the discrepancies identified by OCR, with only the most ambiguous recognition errors requiring in-house correction. Consequently, they achieved a reduction of approximately 3.7 hours in daily work time, equating to roughly 0.6 person-days saved per day. This operational improvement meant that early shifts became unnecessary, reducing commuting stress and allowing employees to secure more personal time, contributing positively to their work-life balance.

Amid the societal demands for transport capacity and logistics rationalization, the continuity of just-in-time logistics is being assured.

Overview of Toyota Mobility Parts

Toyota Mobility Parts Corporation's Ibaraki branch specializes in distributing a wide range of genuine parts and supplies for vehicles, including tires, batteries, oils, navigation systems, and more. For further information, visit Toyota Mobility Parts.

What is WOZE?

WOZE defines a cloud-based service that addresses various document-related tasks seen in order and billing processes, focusing on digitization and human confirmation and correction. By integrating two unique types of OCR technologies (patent no. 5464474) alongside cloud workers, WOZE radically enhances efficiency compared to traditional methods, enabling cost-effective and swift data digitization. By alleviating the routine work of data input, WOZE aids companies in fostering environments where talented individuals can maximize their capabilities.

About Hammock

Hammock is a corporate software manufacturer based in Shinjuku, Tokyo. They aspire to create new experiences through technology, aiming to resolve clients' challenges, needs, and issues via IT solutions. Their focus is on delivering previously unseen functionalities at a high quality and competitive prices. For more details about Hammock and its services, check their website at Hammock.