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Inventory Management: Implementing Bar-Code, RFID Technology
OTHER PARTS OF THIS ARTICLEPt. 1: Inventory Management: Managers Need Time, ResourcesPt. 2: Best Practices for Supply-Chain and Inventory ManagementPt. 3: Inventory Management: Bins, Shelves, Racks Create Efficient StoreroomsPt. 4: Best Practices for Stocking MRO PartsPt. 5: This Page
In discussing technology solutions for inventory management, managers have been known to claim they are installing new technology in their facilities, referring to bar-coding systems and radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology. In reality, bar coding was invented in 1948 and first used commercially in the railroad industry and grocery business in 1967.
The biggest challenges with these technologies relate to implementation, use and management. Properly handled, though, bar coding and RFID enable managers to improve existing business processes by collecting much more relevant data and having access to it in real time.
With properly allocated time and resources, bar coding and RFID systems have resulted in numerous examples of continuous improvement. Ultimately though, it comes down to the business processes. If managers do not have solid processes in place, implementing bar coding and RFID will only facilitate the mistakes.
Andrew Gager is director of consulting services with Marshall Institute, a consulting and training company that helps clients improve the maintenance contribution to organizational performance.
Continue Reading: Special Report: Timely, Cost-Effective Inventory Management
Inventory Management: Managers Need Time, Resources
Best Practices for Supply-Chain and Inventory Management
Inventory Management: Bins, Shelves, Racks Create Efficient Storerooms
Best Practices for Stocking MRO Parts
Inventory Management: Implementing Bar-Code, RFID Technology
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