Smart Lockers Built Around How You Work

Smart Lockers can be used for much more than package delivery. Organizations can use them to securely distribute and store packages, IT devices, equipment, library materials, retail orders, and other resources. Depending on the application, lockers can also support specialized needs such as temperature-controlled storage, device charging, and temporary item storage. Because Smart Lockers can be configured around different workflows, they can support workplaces, schools and universities, apartment communities, retailers, libraries, and other organizations. 

You don't necessarily need one locker for every person who will use the system. The right configuration depends on factors such as the number of users, item or package volume, frequency of pickup, and the sizes of the items being stored. SumnerOne can evaluate your expected usage and recommend a mix of locker sizes and compartments based on your actual needs. Because Smart Locker systems are modular, capacity can also be expanded as those needs change. 

Yes. Smart Lockers can be configured for both indoor and outdoor applications. Outdoor installations require appropriate placement and mounting, and the specific configuration should be selected based on the environment where the system will be installed. SumnerOne can help evaluate the location and determine the appropriate setup for your application. 

Smart Locker solutions can integrate with many existing systems that provide an open API. The specific integration depends on the software you're using and what you want the locker workflow to accomplish. For example, an organization may want its Smart Lockers to communicate with a property management system, learning platform, or another business application, so existing user and workflow information can be incorporated into the process. More complex integrations may require additional development, so SumnerOne evaluates those requirements early in the planning process. 

Smart Locker workflows can be configured around how your organization needs to receive, distribute, track, or store items. This can include how users are authenticated, how recipients are notified, how items are assigned, and how activity is tracked. More complex workflows and integrations may require additional software development, which can affect both project cost and implementation time. SumnerOne works with FP and your team to identify those requirements before implementation. 

A typical Smart Locker implementation may take approximately two to three months once the project requirements are defined and approved. The timeline can vary based on the size of the system, installation requirements, and the amount of software integration or customization involved. Getting key stakeholders such as IT and facilities involved early can help prevent delays, particularly when the Smart Locker solution needs to connect with other systems. 

Yes. Smart Lockers can provide a centralized delivery point for packages from multiple carriers rather than limiting the system to a single delivery provider. That gives organizations more flexibility to manage deliveries from carriers such as UPS, FedEx, USPS, DHL, and others through one Smart Locker workflow. 

Smart Lockers use controlled access to help ensure that items are retrieved by the appropriate recipient. Depending on the configuration, authentication options can include PINs, one-time codes, key cards, and other methods. Smart Locker systems can also support cameras and tracking capabilities that provide greater visibility into when items are placed in or retrieved from the system. The appropriate security configuration can be selected based on your organization's requirements. 

Yes. With FP Trax, organizations can track packages, mail, and other assets as they move through the delivery process. Items can be scanned into the system, assigned to recipients and tracked through pickup or delivery. Organizations can also establish rules for certain workflows, such as requiring a signature before a particular item is released. This creates a searchable record and audit trail that can provide greater accountability for sensitive or important items. 

Don't evaluate Smart Lockers based on the physical locker alone. The software and support behind the system can have a significant impact on how well it works for your organization over time. When comparing Smart Locker solutions, consider the software platform, integration capabilities, customization options, scalability, implementation process, ongoing software and support costs, and the support available after installation. SumnerOne takes a consultative approach to help organizations evaluate the complete solution, including the hardware, software, workflow, and long-term support required for their environment.