Operational Insights Archives - Relay

Lineage Westfield

Jess Fischer — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 20:19:56 +0000

LINEAGE WESTFIELD

Lineage Westfield Improves ROI and Slashes Turn Times up to 80%

RELAY PRODUCTS USED

USE CASES

By addressing the communication challenges of its freezer warehouse, the team at Lineage’s Westfield facility is now handling more trucks than ever, reducing turn times, and boosting team morale.

Slowed Down by Communication Gaps in the Freezer

In the fast-paced, cold storage environment of Lineage’s Westfield, Massachusetts facility, clear communication is essential for maintaining peak efficiency and excellent worker safety. Previously, the team relied on traditional two-way radios that struggled to penetrate the freezer’s thick, insulated walls. General Manager Matthew Fortune explained his frustration, “The problem with those radios is they couldn’t penetrate the freezer wall. We only had about a 40% connectivity rate.”

This spotty connection meant that 60% of the time, messages didn’t go through, so team members had to physically go and pass along messages in person. Warehouse Supervisor Ivan Serrano shared what the experience felt like prior to Relay, “I would physically go into the freezer, go down the aisles and scream for the operator to make sure they were seeing me.” This wasted valuable time and created operational bottlenecks, especially when coordinating tasks across the vast warehouse. For a company that prides itself on innovation as a core value, Fortune knew that enhancing team connectivity was the key to better serving their customers and improving the site’s ROI.

“We have significantly reduced our turn times over the past three years and now average between 35 and 45 minutes. The Relay devices had a huge impact on that.”
– Matthew Fortune, General Manager, Lineage Westfield, Massachusetts Warehouse

Achieving 98.7% Connectivity with Real-Time Location

The introduction of Relay was a significant step forward for the Westfield facility. With 98.7% connectivity throughout the warehouse, the team could finally communicate instantly, whether they were in the freezer, on the dock, or in the office.

A key feature for Fortune’s team was the ability to see a live map of the facility showing the exact location of every team member with their Relay. “The Relay devices give us a real-time location of our operators, which we did not have before, and it helps us make smarter, faster decisions that translate to better service for our customers.” This new visibility allowed supervisors to direct freight and coordinate tasks with greater efficiency, eliminating guesswork and wasted movement.

Reducing Turn Times up to 80%

The operational improvements were significant. With streamlined communication and location tracking, the team saw a major impact on their benchmarks. Truck turn-around times were reduced from 3-4 hours to an average of just 35-45 minutes. The facility went from handling 35-40 trucks a day to efficiently managing over 50, with the capacity to handle up to 60 trucks on busy days.

This boost in efficiency had a direct impact on the facility’s bottom line. “The return on investment in this building has improved since we brought the Relay devices in,” Fortune stated. “We’ve been able to handle more trucks than we have in the past.”

Built for the Demands of the Warehouse

Beyond the operational improvements, the team was impressed by how well Relay devices held up in the harsh cold of their warehouse environment.

Durability: In a warehouse environment, devices must perform and survive regular handling, as well as accidental drops. They’ve been durable, they’ve been strong, and they’ve kept operating the entire time,” shared Fortune.
Battery Life: Even in the energy-draining cold of the freezer, the Relays last. “When you’re in the cold, the battery goes down a lot quicker,” explained Operations Manager Cristian Acevedo. “The Relays are in there for hours and they last in the cold.”
Safety & Morale: The benefits have also extended to the team’s well-being. “These Relay devices have also helped us operate safer,” said Fortune. “If we see something that’s unsafe, we can call it over the Relay device and we know it’s going to transmit.” This reliability and connectivity also led to a noticeable boost in spirits. “Everybody was so happy,” Acevedo noted. “It just brought up their morale.”

A Recommendation for Any Warehouse

For Lineage’s Westfield team, switching to Relay was more than just a communication upgrade; it was a fundamental improvement to their entire operation. By connecting their team, they unlocked new levels of efficiency, improved safety, and created a more positive work environment.

Fortune’s advice to other facility managers is clear: “To increase efficiencies and ROI, I would highly recommend that people look into this program and try it out in their warehouse.”

24/7 cold storage facility in Westfield, Massachusetts
Large freezer warehouse with 20 aisles, managing 50-60 trucks daily
Specializing in the preservation, protection, and distribution of food for global brands

INDUSTRY

MANUFACTURING

OBJECTIVE

Replace an unreliable radio system that was prone to dead spots, hindering team safety and creating costly operational delays. The objective was to find a modern communication solution that could penetrate freezer walls, provide real-time team visibility, and ultimately increase the number of trucks the facility could service daily.

RESULT

After replacing traditional radios with Relay, Lineage’s Westfield, MA facility’s connectivity rate jumped from 40% to 98.7% within the freezer walls. This upgrade helped slash truck turn times from hours to 45 minutes, increased daily truck capacity, and improved both safety and team member experience through reliable, real-time communication and location tracking.

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The post Lineage Westfield appeared first on Relay.

Building a Culture of Innovation on the Shop Floor

Meghan Keith — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 18:31:59 +0000

New product design, automation, and state-of-the-art technology are frequently linked to innovation in manufacturing. However, true innovation flourishes on the shop floor, where parts are manufactured, machinery is operated, and issues are resolved daily. It does not only exist in R&D labs or executive meetings.

Establishing an innovative culture on the shop floor is now a competitive requirement rather than a “nice to have.” Encouraging your frontline teams to innovate is one of the most effective ways to stay ahead in a time of rapid technological change, labor shortages, global pressures, and customer expectations for better, faster, and less expensive results.

From leadership techniques to employee empowerment, communication, and continuous improvement, this article examines what it takes to create a shop floor culture that values innovation.

Why Innovation Belongs on the Shop Floor

The shop floor is the heart of any manufacturing operation because it’s where the action happens. Teams manufacture products, handle materials, monitor machines, and create value on the shop floor, making it a hub of practical insights.

Frontline employees directly witness inefficiencies, equipment malfunctions, material waste, and safety hazards. They are the first to notice when a setup takes longer than necessary or when a process slows down. They are also in the best position to develop and implement practical solutions if they have the appropriate resources and support.

Fostering a culture of innovation on the shop floor can yield substantial benefits:

Higher factory productivity through process improvements
Reduced waste and downtime
Faster problem-solving and decision-making
Improved employee morale and retention
Greater adaptability to customer or market demands

Yet many companies overlook this opportunity by failing to recognize the value of bottom-up innovation.

What Does a Culture of Innovation Look Like?

Even though technology is helpful, an innovative shop floor isn’t necessarily populated by robots and digital dashboards. Instead, people and practices define it by encouraging creative thinking, learning, experimentation, and problem-solving.

Key characteristics include:

Psychological safety: Workers can speak up and suggest ideas without fear of criticism.
Ownership and accountability: Employees may identify and address issues, rather than just reporting them up the chain of command.
Continuous learning: Teams are encouraged to seek new skills, share knowledge, and learn from mistakes.
Structured idea channels: There are clear pathways for proposing, testing, and implementing improvements.
Recognition and feedback: Good ideas are acknowledged, celebrated, and rewarded.

Leadership: Setting the Tone from the Top

Leadership is the foundation of culture. Innovation won’t be prioritized on the floor if it isn’t at the top.

All levels of leaders, including supervisors, plant managers, and executives, are essential in establishing standards and providing behavioral examples. Among the top leadership techniques are:

Make innovation a part of the mission: Discuss it frequently. Tie it to company goals, such as quality, safety, and customer satisfaction.
Lead by example: Show openness to new ideas. Ask questions. Experiment with various approaches in your decision-making.
Invest in training: Provide resources for lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, creative problem-solving, and other frameworks that equip employees with the tools to innovate.
Flatten hierarchies: Encourage direct communication across all levels. Create opportunities for workers to interact with leadership in meaningful ways.

A shop floor will only innovate when it knows leadership is listening—and willing to act.

Empowering the Frontline Workforce

Empowerment is the engine of innovation. Employees who take pride in their workplace are more inclined to question the status quo, find proactive solutions to issues, and make suggestions for enhancements.

Here’s how to empower your teams:

1. Promote Ideas from the Bottom Up

Provide staff members with avenues to share their ideas, such as digital platforms, whiteboards, and physical suggestion boxes.
Assign kaizen or continuous improvement projects to teams.
Establish cross-functional improvement teams that include maintenance personnel, quality personnel, and machine operators.

2. Provide Resources and Time

Set aside time during the workday for experiments, brainstorming, or improvement projects.
Make simple tools, software, or prototyping materials available so that new concepts can be tested quickly.

3. Celebrate Wins and Learn from Failures

Recognize employee contributions publicly—through shoutouts, bonuses, or awards.
Normalize that not every idea will succeed, but every effort helps the team learn.

4. Offer Autonomy

Allow experienced workers more freedom to adjust setups or tweak processes within clear safety and quality parameters.
Train employees to self-inspect and self-manage wherever possible.

Autonomy signals trust—and trust fuels initiative.

Bridging the Gap Between Engineering and the Shop Floor

Innovation often fails when ideas are siloed between departments. Engineers may design solutions that don’t work well in practice, while operators may encounter daily pain points that are never addressed.

To bridge this gap:

Invite shop floor workers into design reviews or process planning meetings.
Use feedback loops—implement pilot changes and gather structured feedback before rolling out new procedures plant-wide.
Establish cross-functional teams that include production staff, engineers, quality personnel, and logistics personnel to co-create solutions.

The result is better collaboration, fewer surprises, and solutions that work in the real world.

The Role of Technology: Enabler, Not Driver

Although they are effective, digital tools like real-time dashboards, AI-powered monitoring systems, and Industrial IoT (IIoT) do not alone foster an innovative culture. Technology is not a driver; it is an enabler.

But when paired with an improvement-oriented and inquisitive culture, technology can:

Highlight bottlenecks, enabling more targeted improvements
Automate repetitive tasks, freeing workers to focus on higher-value activities
Enable better communication through mobile tools or digital work instructions
Provide instant access to training, standards, and troubleshooting guides

The key is to choose tools that serve the workforce—not replace it.

Relay was built with this philosophy in mind: to enable seamless, real-time communication that supports your workforce and helps unlock smarter, safer operations. Explore our solution at your own pace in our on-demand video demo center.

Training and Upskilling: Building the Innovation Muscle

Innovation requires knowledge. Workers must understand not just what they do, but why they do it—and how it fits into the larger operation. That’s where training and upskilling employees comes in.

A strong training program supports innovation in several ways:

Onboarding that emphasizes problem-solving as part of the role
Regular cross-training to increase flexibility and broader process awareness
Workshops or certifications in lean, Six Sigma, 5S, root cause analysis, etc.
Mentorship programs that pair seasoned operators with newer employees to transfer tribal knowledge

Skilled, confident workers are more willing to contribute new ideas—and more capable of making them happen.

Measuring Innovation on the Shop Floor

What gets measured gets improved. Tracking innovation doesn’t mean just counting patents or R&D spend. Instead, consider metrics like:

Number of employee improvement suggestions submitted and implemented
Percentage of frontline teams involved in improvement initiatives
Reduction in downtime, scrap, or rework tied to shop floor-driven improvements
Productivity gains from process changes initiated by workers
Employee satisfaction and retention rates

Even qualitative feedback—such as surveys or town hall comments—can offer insight into whether your culture is moving in the right direction.

Overcoming Common Barriers

Creating an innovative culture is not without its difficulties. Typical challenges consist of:

Fear of failure: If errors are penalized, employees might be reluctant to propose changes.
Lack of time: Strict deadlines and output targets may not allow much time for introspection or trial and error.
Opposition to change: Certain teams might be dubious, particularly if earlier attempts at improvement were disregarded or shelved.
Communication breakdowns: Without a defined procedure for assessing and implementing good ideas, they may never get spoken.
Language barriers: When teams speak different languages, valuable ideas can be lost in translation, and misunderstandings can hinder collaboration.

The solution is to address these issues directly. Build safety nets for experimentation. Make time for improvement in the schedule. Demonstrate follow-through on ideas. And keep lines of communication open at all times.

Final Thoughts: Start Small, Think Big

Building a culture of innovation on the shop floor doesn’t require a considerable budget or radical change. It begins with listening to your people, empowering them to think creatively, and fostering an environment where learning and improvement are integral to the job.

When workers feel heard, supported, and trusted, they stop just running the machines—and start improving the business.

Innovation isn’t a department. It’s a mindset. And it belongs everywhere—including your shop floor. For your next read, check out our guide to overcoming resistance to change when implementing new technology.

The post Building a Culture of Innovation on the Shop Floor appeared first on Relay.

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Modern Manufacturing

Meghan Keith — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 19:00:10 +0000

Artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved from being a distant concept to becoming a revolutionary force that can transform manufacturing operations. The manufacturing industry has experienced rapid change because AI-powered technologies now provide better productivity, waste reduction, quality, and flexibility.

This article examines how AI is transforming contemporary manufacturing through the optimization of supply chains, robotics, quality control, and predictive maintenance. It also explores the benefits, challenges, and potential future developments of manufacturing operations, which intelligent automation systems significantly impact.

From Automation to Autonomy: A New Era Begins

Traditional manufacturing has long relied on automation to streamline repetitive tasks. Conveyor belts, CNC machines, and industrial robots have improved productivity over the decades. But AI takes things a step further. Unlike conventional automation, which follows rigid, preprogrammed rules, AI systems can learn from data, adapt to changing conditions, and make decisions with minimal human input.

This shift from rule-based automation to data-driven autonomy is at the heart of what’s often referred to as Industry 4.0—the fourth industrial revolution. In this environment, machines not only work but also think, learn, and improve over time.

Key Applications of AI in Manufacturing

Integrating artificial intelligence into manufacturing operations offers a wide range of benefits that enhance efficiency, improve product quality, and drive long-term cost savings across the production lifecycle.

1. Predictive Maintenance

Thanks to AI, predictive maintenance helps manufacturers detect impending equipment failures. They do this by recognizing patterns in sensor data, including increased vibration, temperature changes, and acoustic signals. This feature lets manufacturers fix issues before they cause expensive repairs or unplanned production bottlenecks.

Predictive maintenance outperforms traditional preventive maintenance because it cuts down on unneeded servicing and decreases equipment breakdown risks. It can yield cost savings of between 8% and 12% compared to preventive maintenance and up to 40% compared to reactive maintenance.

2. AI-Powered Quality Control

Quality control benefits from AI-enabled computer vision systems that detect product defects with higher precision and speed than human vision. Real-time assessment of high-resolution camera images through machine learning algorithms enables the detection of small specification deviations in parts and assemblies.

The high precision of this system minimizes waste and rework, particularly in industries with tight tolerances, such as electronics, automotive, and aerospace. Machine learning models develop their capabilities through continuous improvement, leading to smarter quality assurance systems over time.

3. Smart Robotics and Cobots

The implementation of AI technology resulted in the creation of smart robots and collaborative robots (cobots) that now serve as standard equipment on factory floors. The main difference between traditional robots and cobots lies in their ability to work alongside humans in the same area while learning new tasks through minimal programming.

The robots employ AI processing of visual and auditory data as they navigate changing environments to perform complex or delicate operations. The technology enables manufacturers to adopt new production techniques for customized and small-batch manufacturing, which previously required extensive human labor.

4. Process Optimization

AI algorithms optimize manufacturing processes in real time. The systems track production data from machines and workstations to recommend modifications, which decrease energy usage, boost production rates, and optimize material usage. AI systems modify CNC machine tool parameters, including speed, feed rate, and depth of cut, to preserve part quality during changes in material properties and ambient conditions.

5. Management of the Supply Chain

AI’s effects on supply chain logistics benefit the manufacturing ecosystem. Manufacturers can enhance their inventory management and shipping routes by utilizing intelligent forecasting tools to predict demand more accurately.

AI platforms use data analysis to spot supply chain interruptions like supplier delays and geopolitical threats and then offer suggestions to reduce risks. In the current unstable global environment, the ability to quickly adapt becomes even more crucial.

Benefits of AI Integration in Manufacturing

As AI technologies become more deeply embedded in factory operations, manufacturers are beginning to realize a host of tangible benefits that go beyond automation—transforming how products are made, monitored, and delivered.

1. An Increase in Efficiency and Productivity

AI can automate complex decision-making processes that result in better resource allocation and faster production cycles. By scheduling tasks on a production line or balancing energy loads, artificial intelligence helps manufacturers accomplish more work in less time.

2. Better Product Quality

AI helps produce more reliable and defect-free products by improving quality control and lowering human error. Manufacturers can enhance adherence to industry standards and maintain tighter tolerances.

3. Lower Prices

AI offers major cost advantages, ranging from reduced maintenance costs to energy savings and improved workflows. These efficiencies add up over time, providing businesses a competitive advantage.

4. Greater Personalization and Adaptability

AI makes it easier for manufacturers to quickly switch between different product types or processes. Low-volume, high-mix production models that adjust to changing consumer demands are thus encouraged.

5. Using Data to Make Decisions

With AI, manufacturers can glean valuable insights from their data. Dashboards and analytics tools convert raw data into actionable intelligence, enabling better strategic decisions across operations.

Challenges and Considerations

AI integration in manufacturing faces several obstacles despite its potential advantages.

1. High Initial Investment

Deploying AI systems, which include complex robotics and specialized machine learning models, is very expensive. Small manufacturing firms struggle to justify their initial expenditures because they lack a clear return on investment.

2. Data Quality and Integrity

AI thrives on data. Many factories experience data fragmentation and poor data quality as a result of their isolated information. Integrating contemporary sensors with legacy equipment while maintaining steady data flow is a major technical challenge.

3. Workforce Disruption

Automation raises concerns about job displacement. The implementation of AI technology creates new positions in programming, data analysis, and robotics maintenance, but it also leads to the elimination of specific traditional roles. The workforce requires proper reskilling to facilitate a seamless transition between old and new systems.

4. Cybersecurity Risks

Increased connectivity in smart factories introduces more attack surfaces. Protecting intellectual property and operational data from cyber threats becomes critical as AI adoption grows.

The Future of AI in Manufacturing

Thanks to technologies like digital twins, which are virtual representations of physical systems, manufacturers will be able to model and optimize processes before implementing the changes in the real world.

Meanwhile, advances in generative AI could enable machines to design parts, fixtures, or even entire production lines autonomously based on design constraints and performance goals.

The increasing demand for sustainable manufacturing will make AI essential for monitoring emissions, optimizing energy consumption, and implementing circular economy principles.

Conclusion

Artificial intelligence transforms manufacturing operations. It enables manufacturers to achieve flexibility and effectiveness, along with market competitiveness, through its various applications that include supply chain resilience, robotic collaboration, and predictive maintenance. The implementation of this change presents several challenges, including workforce disruption, data integration, and investment costs.

Businesses must implement AI strategically by investing in people, procedures, and long-term change management in addition to technology. The industry’s future development will empower manufacturers rather than replace them, and those who implement intelligent automation today will become leaders in the smart factories of tomorrow.

The post The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Modern Manufacturing appeared first on Relay.

The ROI of Efficiency: How Smart Manufacturing Reduces Costs and Increases Throughput

Meghan Keith — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 19:46:48 +0000

The current industrial environment operates at a rapid pace amid intense market competition. Efficiency, once just a buzzword, now functions as a fundamental survival and success strategy. The worldwide supply chain network is facing increasing stress as labor shortages grow and energy market prices remain unpredictable. Manufacturers face extreme pressure to maximize their output while minimizing their resources.

Smart manufacturing represents a data-based technology solution that transforms operations for businesses at every scale. The combination of automated systems, real-time data analysis, and connected technology platforms optimizes production scheduling and predictive maintenance operations. The result? Lower costs, increased throughput, and a higher return on investment (ROI) across the board.

This article examines how smart manufacturing enhances operational efficiency while producing quantifiable financial benefits.

Real-Time Data Leads to Real Savings

The main benefit of smart manufacturing includes its ability to provide real-time visibility into operational activities. Manufacturers utilize sensors in conjunction with machine learning algorithms and advanced analytics to monitor production conditions, including machine temperatures, supply levels, and operator performance, in real-time.

This visibility enables companies to make immediate corrections that prevent minor issues from escalating into costly downtime. A Number Analytics report shows that manufacturers using real-time analytics experience productivity improvements of 10–25%. Additional metrics include:

18% better OEE
13% less unplanned downtime
7% reduction in cycle time

Imagine a facility losing $10,000 per hour due to an equipment failure. If predictive maintenance powered by smart sensors prevents just 10 hours of downtime per year, that’s a $100,000 annual savings, often enough to pay for the system in its first year.

Automation Enhances Labor Productivity

Labor is often the most prominent line item in a manufacturing budget. Although smart manufacturing doesn’t eliminate the need for skilled workers, it can boost productivity by automating repetitive, hazardous, or time-consuming tasks.

The combination of collaborative robots (cobots), automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and robotic process automation (RPA) allows workers to perform high-value tasks, including quality control, programming, and system oversight.

A mid-sized CNC machine shop implementing automated tool changers and pallet systems could achieve double or triple spindle uptime without requiring extra personnel. The implementation of this technology may generate thousands of additional productive hours each year, increasing revenue and reducing labor expenses.

Leaner Inventory Through Smart Supply Chains

Smart manufacturing extends its reach from factory operations into supply chain management. Companies achieve better demand forecasting, automated inventory replenishment, and reduced overproduction through integrated ERP and MES systems that use artificial intelligence and IIoT technology.

The outcome leads to an operation that is both leaner and more responsive. Manufacturers achieve lower warehousing expenses while preventing stockouts and better cash flow management through strategies that minimize excess material capital. A manufacturer who maintains $2 million worth of raw materials can generate $200,000 in working capital through better forecasting and JIT strategies that reduce inventory by 10%.

Quality Control at the Source

Rework and scrap can be major drains on profitability. The traditional quality assurance (QA) methods detect defects after completing each batch. Smart manufacturing implements in-line quality control through sensors and vision systems to catch errors immediately during production.

Machine learning systems can identify minor patterns that show process tolerance drift before defective parts are produced. Early detection of issues leads to reduced scrap production while maintaining the value of each manufactured unit.

A 3% to 1% defect rate reduction on 500,000 annual parts valued at $10 each would result in $50,000 less lost product before even considering rework expenses and the impact on customer trust.

Energy Efficiency as a Profit Lever

In manufacturing, energy consumption is often a hidden expense, especially in high-intensity industries like plastic injection molding, metalworking, and chemical processing. By using IIoT-enabled devices that monitor power consumption at the machine level, smart manufacturing systems allow for energy monitoring and optimization.

Manufacturers can improve their sustainability metrics and lower utility costs by upgrading inefficient motors, modifying load schedules, or optimizing HVAC settings when they identify energy-hungry processes.

For example, a manufacturer can save $50,000 in direct costs by reducing its annual energy bill by just 5%. The environmental, social, and governance (ESG) objectives, which are increasingly linked to public contracts and investment opportunities, can also be supported by this efficiency gain.

Throughput Optimization via Smart Scheduling

Traditional systems use static plans and spreadsheets for their production scheduling. Smart manufacturing uses dynamic scheduling algorithms that respond to current operational conditions, including machine availability, job priority changes, and supply delays.

The system reduces downtime while optimizing equipment usage to boost plant production rates. The increased shift output enables companies to boost their revenue without needing physical expansion or additional staff.

Here’s a performance boost to consider: If an optimized schedule improves machine utilization from 70% to 85%, that’s a 21% gain in productive output. Applied to a $10 million operation, this could translate into an additional $2 million in annual capacity.

Predictive Maintenance Cuts Lifecycle Costs

Because preventive maintenance relies on fixed schedules, companies often replace parts before their actual end of life. Predictive maintenance is enabled by machine learning and IoT, and it monitors equipment health continuously and alerts operators before components fail.

This shift extends the asset’s lifespan and reduces unnecessary downtime and repair costs. Predictive models can even be applied across fleets of similar machines, making the entire operation smarter over time.

According to Deloitte, predictive maintenance can reduce breakdowns by 70% and cut maintenance costs by 25%. Manufacturers using AI-based solutions could see a 20-30% increase in uptime.

Faster Time-to-Market

Smart manufacturing reduces development cycles through the use of digital twins, simulation, and rapid prototyping. Engineers can test processes virtually, optimize workflows before launching physical lines, and adjust designs based on live production feedback.

This enhanced agility enables companies to respond more quickly to customer needs, adapt to new market conditions, and introduce new products to market before their competitors.

A faster product launch by even one month can capture early market share and generate hundreds of thousands in incremental revenue, particularly in fast-moving consumer or B2B technology sectors.

Conclusion: Efficiency Is the New Competitive Advantage

The foundation of long-term competitiveness in today’s market of thin profit margins, worldwide market instability, and rising customer demands is efficiency. Smart manufacturing provides a direct path to success by uniting automation with data analytics and connectivity to boost production rates while minimizing waste and optimizing operational efficiency.

Efficiency’s return on investment is more than just a statistic for progressive manufacturers; it’s a way of thinking. By investing in smart manufacturing now, industry players can position themselves for increased profits and future growth driven by improved agility, resilience, and innovation.

The post The ROI of Efficiency: How Smart Manufacturing Reduces Costs and Increases Throughput appeared first on Relay.

Overcoming Walkie-Talkie Range Obstacles: Terrain, Buildings, and Weather Effects

Meghan Keith — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 13:52:10 +0000

Walkie-talkies took the world by storm back in the 1930s when they were first invented – revolutionizing business communication and forging connections across distances. But, as the landscape (both literally and figuratively) has changed, so has standard walkie-talkie range.

While effective with a clear line of sight, the distances you can communicate with a walkie-talkie vary when obstacles occur – from the terrain and the use of nearby electronics, to wall thicknesses and even the weather.

In business, walkie-talkie range is one of the biggest talking points. Today, companies need fast, clear communications to ensure safety and productivity on their premises. So, how do you achieve good signal, and which two-way radio do you choose?

In this article, we’ll explain walkie-talkie ranges, how two-way radio coverage works, obstacles that can reduce signal, and how to increase the effectiveness of your walkie-talkie and find the best two-way radio for you.

What is the Typical Range of a Walkie-Talkie?

The typical range of a walkie-talkie is between 2-5 kilometers (1-3 miles). Long-range walkie-talkies operate across distances up to 15 kilometers (around 9 miles). Radios that operate on cellular or Wi-Fi have a nationwide range (meaning they provide national coverage).

What is the Maximum Range a Walkie-Talkie Can Achieve?

Technically, a walkie-talkie can reach a nationwide range at a maximum (distances of 1000+ miles/kilometers). Yet this is only possible with a walkie-talkie that operates on Wi-Fi or cellular networks. These are often referred to as two-way radios or smart radios, rather than walkie-talkies.

Traditional walkie-talkie ranges (that operate via antenna and radio frequencies) vary. A vehicle walkie-talkie claims to have the longest range, up to 48 kilometers (or 30 miles). GMRS and Ham radios also claim to have longer ranges, yet these require a license to operate.

However, it’s important to remember that frequency radios can experience interference which can reduce distances – potentially quite significantly.

What Types of Environments Reduce Walkie-Talkie Range?

The best environment is a flat, open area, like a desert or a field, as this allows the radio to communicate further. Areas with obstructions, like mountains, buildings, or people, can experience poorer signals.

The natural environments that can reduce walkie-talkie range include:

Hilly or mountainous areas: Hills can block signal and reduce range
Forests or jungles: Trees and dense shrubbery can absorb and scatter radio waves, thus reducing range
Rainy, snowy, or foggy weather: Can interfere with signal strength, reduce range, and cause static
Extremely humid conditions: High humidity can absorb and scatter radio waves, similar to the effects of rainy weather
Inside buildings with many internal walls: Concrete and steel inside buildings can block and reflect waves, reducing range
Areas surrounded by obstruction: Any large objects, like shelving units in a warehouse or vehicles in a parking lot, can reduce range

Business environments that can struggle with walkie-talkie signal and experience poor range include:

Airports: Operating walkie-talkies across buildings or in an area surrounded by planes or vehicles can obstruct signal strength
Warehouses: Boxes and shelving units can interfere with range
Manufacturing buildings/factories: Machinery, steel, and concrete walls can affect signal and decrease range
Hotels: Large premises and heavily partitioned buildings can struggle with signal strength and range
Construction sites: Sites with obstructions and frequently used electronics can cause line of sight or electromagnetic interference
Large venues at full capacity: Signal strength can be weakened when large groups of people are gathered close to walkie-talkies

How Can I Increase the Range of My Walkie-Talkies?

Try the below to increase the range of a walkie-talkie:

Change channels/frequency: Switch the channels or frequency of the radio to see if any provide a clearer or longer range in your area
Obtain a clearer line of sight: Operate the walkie-talkie in an open area without any obstructions, or obtain higher ground in a populated area (like at the top of a hill or building)
Fully charge the battery: Low walkie-talkie battery life can disrupt the range and signal, so make sure the device is fully charged
Create distance between power lines or electronics: Use a walkie-talkie away from any potential electromagnetic interference
Obtain a repeater: Install a walkie-talkie repeater with an antenna in the location, ensuring the repeater is compatible with your walkie-talkie and you have the right licenses to operate it
Wait for better weather: Trying to operate a walkie-talkie when is raining, snowing, foggy, or during a storm may cause static
Switch to cellular: Use a two-way radio that operates on 3G/4G/5G or Wi-Fi to increase radio communication range and remove all interference (learn more about Relay radios with nationwide range)

How Do Different Walkie-Talkie Frequencies Affect Range?

When purchasing a walkie-talkie, you’ll usually find the following in their specification: the frequency they operate on (UHF or VHF) and the radio service they use (typically FRS, MURS, GMRS, or Wi-Fi/Cellular).

The frequency and radio service impact walkie-talkie range, and which environment it performs best. This only applies to walkie-talkies that operate only on frequencies, not radios that work on LTE, 3G/4G/5G, or Wi-Fi (like Relay).

Types of frequencies:

The most common frequencies found in walkie-talkies are VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra-High Frequency):

VHF: Has a frequency range between 30-300 MHz and operates on a longer range compared to UHF. However, it struggles to penetrate through buildings and works better in open areas.
UHF: Has a frequency range between 300 MHz to 3GHz, but has a shorter range compared to VHF. It works well in urban areas and can penetrate through walls, buildings, and other obstacles.

Types of radio services:

The main types of radio services you can access with a portable radio are FRS, MURS, GMRS, and LTE/Wi-Fi:

FRS (Family Radio Service): Is a publicly available frequency, accessible without a license. These types of walkie-talkies come in short and long ranges. FRS is authorized for 22 channels in the 462-467 MHz range and operates best in urban areas.
MURS (Multi-Use Radio Service): Doesn’t require a license and uses 5 channels within the frequency range of 151-154 MHz. It operates across short and long distances, but generally performs better in rural areas rather than in urban areas.
GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service): Is available via a license and can cater to short and long distances. It utilizes channels around 462-467 MHz, but has additional channels compared to FRS, plus repeater channels, which enable extended ranges.
LTE/Wi-Fi: Typically requires a subscription (see Relay pricing) and offers nationwide range. It combines Wi-Fi with all major U.S. cellular networks (switching automatically to find the best coverage) and offers superior audio quality and reliable communication.

How Does Line-of-Sight Affect Walkie-Talkie Range?

Walkie-talkies are designed to perform best when there is a clear line of sight. This means if two people are holding a walkie-talkie, they should be able to see each other to gain clear, strong, and long-range communication.

Anything that interferes with the line of sight reduces how far you can communicate with a walkie-talkie. For example, if there is a person, building, hill, or even fog in between you, it can decrease range.

What are the Best Long-Range Walkie-Talkies?

The best walkie-talkie for you depends on your location and your primary use of the device. Read our guide on how to choose the best walkie talkie for your business.

When choosing a two-way radio for business use, it’s important to consider:

Whether you need long or short-range communication
The obstructions on the business premises
How critical indoor and outdoor communications are (including emergency communication)
FCC regulations and licenses required
Any additional features you need in a communications device (e.g., man-down alarms, location tracking, and live language translation)

Using Relay for business

Alongside enabling fast, clear communication between employees – even those in different buildings nationwide – Relay radios are designed to improve productivity in the workplace, with features including:

Group communication and push-to-talk
Reliable, nationwide range
Live translation of 30+ languages (to remove language barriers and improve communication between employees)
Make phone calls between devices
GPS and Bluetooth to locate people and things
A built-in panic button, enabling employees to discreetly call for help in an emergency or dangerous situation
A Relay App, enabling management to use Relay features and communicate with employees, without having a device themselves

Learn more about Relay at your own pace in our on-demand video demo center.

FAQs

Can Walkie-Talkies Work Through Walls or Obstacles?

Yes, walkie-talkies can work through walls or obstacles, but how well depends on the device, frequency, and radio service. Usually, the fewer obstructions and walls around you, the better the range.

Some devices operate better through walls than others (like FRS radios), while others have no issue communicating with obstacles around them (like Relay devices that work on LTE/Wi-Fi).

How Do I Troubleshoot Poor Walkie-Talkie Range?

If your walkie-talkie isn’t communicating very far or has static/fuzzy signal, try the following to stop radio interference:

Switching channels
Pointing the antenna vertically
Extending the antenna to its full length
Charging the battery
Moving away from electronics
Obtaining a clearer line of sight between the two devices
Waiting for better weather

How Do I Test the Range of My Walkie-Talkies?

The best test of range for a walkie-talkie is to simply have one person holding one device and another person holding the other, and continue moving away from each other to see when the signal gets fuzzy.

It’s important to remember that manufacturers may test range with a clear line of sight (unless stated otherwise). Therefore, anything around or between you and the other person can change the expected range.

Upgrade to Relay Radios For Reliable, Extended Range

Designed for businesses big and small, Relay radios operate with nationwide signals to deliver superior audio quality for your employees – no matter where they are.

With an all-in-one communications solution that combines the most essential features for frontline teams, Relay can unlock your productivity and streamline business communication. Ready to upgrade your business radios? Book a demo or see our pricing plans today!

The post Overcoming Walkie-Talkie Range Obstacles: Terrain, Buildings, and Weather Effects appeared first on Relay.

Phoenix Integrated Security

Jess Fischer — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 23:18:41 +0000

PHOENIX INTEGRATED SECURITY

Phoenix Integrated Security Enhances Team Communication Across Hundreds of Miles

RELAY PRODUCTS USED

TEAM COMMUNICATIONS

OPERATIONAL INSIGHTS

USE CASES

A Michigan-based physical security solutions company needed a more reliable and professional method of communication than cell phones for its widely dispersed teams. They implemented Relay’s cost-effective and long-range solution, centralizing management capabilities via the Relay Dashboard and ultimately improving operational oversight and efficiency.

Securing Operations Across a Large Geographic Footprint

Phoenix Integrated Security, headquartered in Wayne, Michigan, delivers comprehensive security services to its clients, with operations spanning across numerous cities and municipalities. Their highly-trained teams are responsible for on-site guarding and ensuring the safety and integrity of large-scale facilities, such as vehicle manufacturers and processors. Maintaining clear, reliable, and professional communication is paramount for the business’ dispersed teams, who provide a vigilant presence and rapid response capabilities 24/7/365.

Cell Phones Lacked Oversight and Professionalism

Before implementing Relay in 2023, the security company relied on cell phones for team communication, including phone-based walkie-talkie app, Zello. Because the app resided on employees’ personal phones, the lines between work and personal time were blurred. The Head of Operations shared, “there was really no way as a company or as an operation for us to manage it professionally.” With reliable communications being a top priority for the business to ensure the safety and security of its employees and clients property, Phoenix Integrated Security knew there had to be a better solution out there, one that could provide the oversight they wanted.

Enter Relay: Cost-Effective and Reliable Across Long Distances

Over the years, the security company has evaluated various radio options and consistently found Relay to be the best fit with its built-in long range, user friendliness, centralized management capabilities via the Relay Dashboard, helpful customer support, and of course, affordability. Switching to a traditional radio system would have required high costs and complex startup infrastructure in order to use them across the hundreds of miles within Phoenix Integrated Security’s operations. The Head of Operations noted, “It’s always come down to Relay has been here for us and we’ve been there for them, and they’ve always done what we need them to do.”

“Other radio providers offer a similar service but they can’t do it the way Relay does it. Especially for the cost and the quality that you get.”
– The Head of Operations at Phoenix Integrated Security

Enhanced Operations, Reliable Insights, and Proven Efficiency

With over 1,000 messages being sent across devices on a busy day, Relay’s Dashboard has become a central asset for Phoenix Integrated Security’s Operations Center, significantly enhancing visibility. “We have all the data now right at our fingertips,” the Head of Operations stated. Features like location tracking have proved invaluable for verifying personnel positions and locating lost devices, while Relay’s geofencing provides real-time alerts when devices leave designated areas. “Location tracking is phenomenal with us operating in so many different cities,” they shared. “It’s not always practical for me to go to the site and ask questions but I can look at the location tracking and see where an employee was when an incident occurred.” The team also leverages Relay’s message transcriptions to verify events for reporting and compliance scenarios.

The team in the Security Operations Center (SOC) actively uses Relay’s Dashboard to manage device settings remotely, such as ensuring devices aren’t on “Do Not Disturb” and volumes are turned up loud enough so no essential communications are missed. They are even utilizing pre-scheduled broadcasts for standardized announcements like charging reminders at shift change and weather alerts to improve efficiency. The Head of Operations shared, “Relay has allowed my Operations Center to become a tool that really helps us oversee and maintain our team.” Communication across their extensive service area became so seamless that, “it doesn’t feel like we’re operating in eight different cities when you sit in our Security Operations Center (SOC) and you hear everyone talking like it’s just another conversation,” they continued. “With the distance we span with them, I think we’re really closing the gap.”

“Using Relay across the vast distance of our operations has streamlined communications from the field to my security operations center. All they have to do is press that button and say whatever they need to say and my Operation Center has got it instantly.”
– The Head of Operations at Phoenix Integrated Security

Physical security company headquartered in Wayne, Michigan
Offers 24/7/365 security for large-scale facilities
Relay customer since 2023

INDUSTRY

SECURITY

OBJECTIVE

Phoenix Integrated Security wanted a more reliable and professional communication method than cell phones for their widely dispersed teams, to improve operational oversight and efficiency.

RESULT

By implementing Relay, Phoenix Integrated Security was able to centralize management capabilities via the Relay Dashboard and securely communicate across hundreds of miles, all while avoiding the high costs and complex infrastructure a traditional radio system would have required.

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The post Phoenix Integrated Security appeared first on Relay.

Advanced Incident Response: Custom Workflows With Relay

Jess Fischer — Wed, 21 May 2025 13:54:11 +0000

Everyday, frontline workers across industries unfortunately find themselves in emergency situations. Not only are emergency situations scary and stressful, they can be confusing too. Knowing who’s supposed to be doing what, where, and when can help employees stay calm, and speed up the incident response process.

Beyond having an emergency plan in place, teams need to be able to communicate with one another quickly and know where an incident has happened. Many paging and overhead systems only pass along information one-way and broadcasting messages to everyone within earshot can escalate high-stress situations. You may also find it difficult to get in contact with the right people using radios and cell phones.

Many of our existing customers chose Relay as their two-way communication tool because of Relay’s additional safety features. To enable our customers to handle emergency situations as quickly and efficiently as possible, in a way that works best for their specific business needs, we upgraded our incident response capabilities.

What are Relay’s Advanced Incident Response Capabilities?

Our advanced incident response capabilities allow you to further customize who needs to be aware of emergency situations and how they can respond. Now you’ll be able to:

Dispatch incident alerts directly from the Relay dashboard or mobile app*
Create and name custom codes based on your phrasing preference*
Customize responder roles by choosing who receives an alert about the incident versus those who receive an alert and can communicate in the incident channel
Configure emails that are automatically sent when incidents are created

*Incident Dispatch and Custom Phrases are only available for certain plans

These additional capabilities are especially useful for properties with sophisticated security teams, as well as those within the education or healthcare industries.

By setting up these workflows BEFORE an incident takes place, employees will be better prepared to deal with emergency situations.

Setting Up Relay’s Incident Workflows

Incident workflows are triggered by voice on Relay devices or may be dispatched from the app or dashboard.

To set up incident workflows in your Relay dashboard, navigate to the Incident Setup page and then follow the steps below.

Click Configure Incident Phrase or Incident Dispatch*
Type in a custom phrase or choose from the preset codes provided.*
Select who you would like to have the ability to trigger each workflow.
Select your responders

Following setup, you’ll be able to view all your workflows in the dashboard.

*Incident Dispatch and Custom Phrases are only available for certain plans

How to Initiate an Incident Phrase Workflow

To initiate an incident, hold the assistant button and say the code name assigned to that workflow. If you would like to add additional context to the incident, say that after the code word, e.g. “Code Red fire in the kitchen”.

Any assigned responders to that code will hear the notification “Code Red fire in the kitchen by Scott. Tap the talk button to continue”. A communications channel will then be created with the person who triggered the incident and any responders.

Dash (web) or Relay App users may see the Incident Details, including timestamps for who triggered the incident and responded, all messages transcribed and any location changes for the person who triggered the incident. This can be referenced after the fact in the incident history as well. Message history and transcriptions are only available for 7 days.

See Relay’s Advanced Incident Response Capabilities in Action

Here’s a demo of Relay’s advanced incident response capabilities from our recent webinar.

Click here to learn more about Relay Incidents.

The post Advanced Incident Response: Custom Workflows With Relay appeared first on Relay.

Walkie Talkie Alternatives: Choosing the Best Communication Tool for Your Team

Jess Fischer — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 15:00:06 +0000

Staying in touch while you’re working should be relatively easy. Unfortunately, various obstacles can stand in the way, from technological limitations to the unique needs of different work environments. Whether you’re in an office setting, a manufacturing plant, or out in the field, finding the right communication tool for your team is crucial for productivity and efficiency.

In this list of walkie talkie alternatives, we’ll examine the pros and cons of various options, including cellphones, smart radios, PTT devices, and software solutions like Microsoft Teams and Slack. We’ll also consider factors like cost, ease of use, security, and specific features such as language translation and AI capabilities. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of which communication tools best suit your team’s needs and how to overcome those communication hurdles.

6 Walkie Talkies Alternatives

One thing is for sure; there is no shortage of workplace communication tools. Of course, having tools available and being able to actually use them are two different things. Let’s find out which walkie talkie alternative works best.

1. Cellphones

Cellphones definitely have a big advantage in that almost everyone has one in their pocket. These smart devices make it simple to fire off a quick text. Alternatively, you could call a coworker if you have a question.

On the downside, not everyone wants to use their personal phone for work and providing phones can be very expensive, both upfront and monthly. Cellphones also rely on only one cellular provider and if connectivity is lacking in your work environment, calls and messages may get delayed. There are also other downsides to using cellphones for work, including them being a distraction, looking unprofessional, and their lack of durability.

Pros:

Easy to use
1:1 communications
Nationwide range
Better mobility

Cons:

Can hinder productivity
Security risks
Privacy concerns
Expensive to provide
Reduced work-life balance

2. Smart Radios

Smart radios can be a wise alternative to walkie talkie technology. One of the main perks of adopting smart radios is that your team can talk on the top private LTE networks and WiFi rather than relying on radio waves. In other words, no one outside of your network will be able to interrupt your workforce and you’ll get nationwide range. Additionally, smart radios are better suited for harsh environments than cell phones, and you won’t have to worry about your team using them for personal uses.

With smart radios, you also unlock a fleet of capabilities that don’t come with traditional walkie talkies, such as 1:1 calling, real-time language translation, a built-in panic button, GPS tracking, message transcriptions, and more. Of course, you may have a higher initial investment, though this is often offset over time with the warranty and trade-in programs smart radio providers like Relay offer.

Pros:

All-in-one communications and safety device
Redundant nationwide connectivity
Easy to use
Built for tough environments
1:1 and group communications
Customizable cloud-based features such as AI-powered language translation

Cons:

Initial investment cost
Workers may experience radio fatigue

3. Slack or Microsoft Teams

Slack or Microsoft Teams can be good choices for coworkers who want to remain in constant contact with each other, but this walkie talkie alternative is best for an office setting. In other words, if your business is an office environment, they will work fine for non-urgent real-time communications. However, if you run a manufacturing plant, it will be too difficult for your line workers to stay up to date.

The downsides of choosing Slack or Microsoft Teams include lots of potential distractions and information overload. They also come with a rather steep learning curve, and messages can easily get lost in the shuffle.

Some companies may choose to utilize these desktop messaging apps for their office staff, while providing an alternative communication method for those on the line. If you choose not to do this, everyone may need 10-15 minutes each day to check out what’s been posted.

Pros:

Mobile accessibility
Integrates seamlessly with other services and apps
Remote collaborations
Provides a centralized communication tool
Enables voice calls and video conferencing

Cons:

Not designed for time-sensitive communications
Steep learning curve
Number of groups and messages can be distracting
Not ideal for deskless workers

4. Push-to-Talk Apps

Push-to-talk (PTT) apps allow hands-free communication. Although this is similar to the way walkie talkies work, PTT is much cheaper as it relies solely on Wi-Fi and cellular networks. Instant communication makes PTT apps an easy way to stay in touch too.

However, you’ll face many of the same issues as using cellphones to communicate. For instance, relying on a singular cellular network means you can expect occasional outages. Additionally, using PTT can drain your workers’ cellphone battery. And, of course, they’ll need a smartphone to take advantage of PTT technology.

Pros:

Nationwide connectivity
Compatible with multiple devices
Cost-effective if employees are using personal devices
Easy to use

Cons:

Occasionally drops or delays calls
Internet dependency
Data usage costs

5. Collaboration Tools

Google Workspace

Google Workspace has been around since 2006. Although Google Workspace can be accessed for free, it also offers enterprise features. As an example, you could pay a fee to receive your own custom email addresses, along with unlimited storage.

Small-to-medium sized businesses will get the most out of Google Workspace, followed by freelancers and anyone who primarily works in the cloud. Using it does require the internet, though, so when you suffer an outage, you’ll be unable to access Google Workspace.

Zoom Workplace

Zoom Workplace is a recent addition to the many walkie talkie alternatives you can use. Launched in 2024, it primarily relies on AI-powered capabilities and collaboration. You can use this feature to summarize meetings, compose a chat message, etc.

On the other hand, Zoom Workplace can support large audiences for meetings and webinars. Plus, many workers are already familiar with Zoom’s features and setup, due to the pandemic.

Pros:

Easy to use
Scalable
Robust integrations
Good collaboration features

Cons:

Not designed for deskless workers
Requires the internet
Paid accounts are expensive, especially with add-ons and subscriptions
Not ideal for urgent communications

6. Company Intranet

Setting up a business-specific intranet enables your team to have secure, internal conversations. Your employees will have access to company news, documents, and resources, which they won’t have to browse the internet to find.

Unfortunately, many people still think of their company’s intranet as being clunky and difficult to use. Intranet access has come a long way from its earlier predecessors, though, so it might work great if your team works exclusively in an office environment.

Pros:

Boosts employee engagement
Encourages knowledge sharing
Makes employee onboarding easier
Improves internal communication

Cons:

Navigation is complex
Might cause information overload
Not meant for urgent messages
Time-consuming and costly

Choosing the Best Walkie Talkie Alternative

Which walkie talkie alternatives will work best for you? It really depends on what type of business you run, along with your work environment. For example, if you run an office, tools such as Microsoft Teams or Slack might be best. However, if your team isn’t tethered to desks, a push-to-talk device like a smart radio is by far the better option.

Smart radios such as those offered by Relay make it easy for your team to stay connected, even if they’re not within sight of each other. Relay enables you to speak to many people at once, or 1:1. Their smaller size is a plus, as is their built-in ability to instantly translate more than 30 languages.

Are you interested in building stronger communication between your employees? Unlock Relay’s pricing today.

The post Walkie Talkie Alternatives: Choosing the Best Communication Tool for Your Team appeared first on Relay.

6 Reasons Why IT Leaders Are Making the Switch to Relay

Meghan Keith — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 15:29:31 +0000

In IT, one of the biggest frustrations is when technology doesn’t work as expected, especially during critical moments. Whether it’s overly complex systems, delayed support, or tools that fail when you need them most, IT leaders don’t have time for unreliable tech. That’s why more teams are switching to Relay. The smart radio solution that delivers the reliability, simplicity, and control they need, even during routine shifts or emergency scenarios.

1. Carrier Redundancy That Just Works

Relay devices come with a built-in eSIM that holds profiles for all major carriers. If one network goes down due to a localized outage or infrastructure failure, Relay can automatically switch to another carrier without any action required from the user. This built-in redundancy ensures continuous connectivity and eliminates the risk of total communication loss when one provider fails.

2. Ready for Disaster Recovery

Relay’s redundant connectivity is designed to keep devices working even if a cellular network or WiFi drops. Many of our customers use Relay in disaster recovery scenarios where service may be compromised. Those customers often have battery backups, generators, and Starlink set up to maintain connectivity. With Relay working in tandem with the backup infrastructure, teams can continue communicating through the chaos, which is critical for evacuations or managing a reduced emergency crew.

3. Minimal Bandwidth, Maximum Impact

Despite supporting real-time voice communication, Relay is incredibly bandwidth efficient. A fleet of 100 active Relay devices uses less bandwidth than a single person watching a YouTube video. The system is optimized for connection stability and low latency, making it a great fit even in environments where bandwidth is limited or inconsistent.

4. Simple, Cloud-Based Management

Setting up Relay doesn’t require a mess of wires or on-site configuration. IT teams can manage everything through a centralized web portal—from adding Wi-Fi credentials to assigning users and creating channels. These settings are pushed to the device over cellular, so Relay is ready to go as soon as it’s out of the box. It’s a faster, easier way to deploy and manage communication tools across teams.

5. Enterprise-Grade Security Built In

Relay prioritizes security rigorously. The company maintains SOC 2 Type 2 compliance, executes frequent security audits and penetration testing, and employs encryption protocols for all data both in transit and at rest. Access is strictly managed, and in the event of device loss or theft, remote disablement is immediate. Relay communication permits access solely to authorized users, thereby providing a fundamental level of safeguarding for confidential operations.

6. Dedicated Customer Support

Relay has a dedicated customer support team based in the U.S. They provide the support, training, guidance, and resources needed to learn, implement, and use Relay across your organization. It’s one more way Relay stands out from typical tech vendors.

Bottom line: Relay offers IT teams a reliable, secure, and easy-to-manage communication solution that performs when it matters most. If you’re looking for a smarter, more resilient way to keep your team connected, it might be time to switch to Relay.

The post 6 Reasons Why IT Leaders Are Making the Switch to Relay appeared first on Relay.

How to Locate Powered-Off Relay Devices

Jess Fischer — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 15:41:43 +0000

Exciting news: RelayX devices can now be located even when they are powered off! This enhancement was designed to further help with loss prevention, for customers who may need to locate lost devices even after they have run out of battery.

It can also be useful for saving time locating lost devices, identifying an employee’s last-known location (especially in remote areas), and deterring theft.

How Does Powered-Off Location Tracking Work?

RelayX has bluetooth sensors that are activated when a device is powered down. A device can then be detected by nearby online Relay devices (up to 50-75 feet away), and its location will be reported to the user’s Relay Dashboard or App every 60 minutes. The reported location will be the online device’s location, whether indoors or outdoors.

Learn more about indoor location tracking.

How Long Can the Device Be Located?

Once a device reaches 4% battery life, it should automatically power down. The powered-off location tracking is expected to last up to 90 days for RelayX.

Location Tracking in Relay’s Dashboard

To locate a powered-off device in Relay’s Dashboard, navigate to the Indoor or Outdoor Location screen and filter for Show Offline Devices. The device will be represented by a cloud icon and will say “Seen at Location”.

The powered-off device’s location will also be present in the location history. In the example below, you can see the device was in the Celebration room, went offline for 15 seconds, and then was seen at 4616 Reedy Creek Rd.

Location Tracking in Relay’s App

To see the location of a powered-off device in Relay’s App, navigate to the Location Tab, select Filters, and select Offline Users. Offline users will display “Seen at Location”.

The post How to Locate Powered-Off Relay Devices appeared first on Relay.