RFID SYSTEM AND ITS IMPACTS ON SUPPLY CHAIN

摘要

The advent of information technologies (IT) has generated numerous challenges and opportunities in the way enterprises comprehend and perform processes both internally and along the supply chain. RFID applications can provide corporate information systems with the identity of each a physical item in the supply chain in an automated and timely manner. The real time availability of item identity allows other information, related to the item, to be drawn on in order to assess both the current state of the product and future actions required. In the context of supply chain operations, widespread introduction of such systems represents a major opportunity to overhaul and improve tracking and tracing systems, process control and inventory management. In the longer term, it is possible that RFID systems may enable a complete re-engineering of the supply chain, by removing a number of the constraints that limit today's supply chain structures. This paper introduces the main elements of an RFID system including tags, readers, and antennas, and reviews some key challenges in supply chain operations today. We focus on the application of RFID to improve four basic supply chain management processes: shipping, transportation, warehousing and custom relationship management (CRM). RFID systems should mean that many operations which require identification can be performed automatically, more accurately and faster, leading to reduced costs and increased timeliness. Beyond the cost cutting and improved processes offered by RFID, it can facilitate strategic improvements in store and warehouse operations and in network-wide agility.