Value of RFID tracking: A case study from the paper product supply chain
Author
Editor
- Susanne Hertz
Summary, in English
The purpose is to explain the value of utilising tracking data for material flow control purposes in different supply chain areas.
The research methodology is based on a literature review and a case study of a distribution system originating from an international paper manufacturer. The distribution system in the analysis started RFID technology adoption more than ten years ago and has developed to include a comprehensive and well-functioning goods flow. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and through access to company documentation and databases.
The paper provides an analytical structure (a framework) explaining the value of using tracking data in different supply chain areas. The analytical structure identifies three areas, i.e. planning flexibility, process control and integration, where utilisation of tracking data
affects logistics performance. For these three areas, it explains the impact of utilisation of tracking data on manufacturing, transport, inventory and customer gains.
The framework is tested on empirical data from one case study.
Supply chain managers could use the framework presented to map the value of using tracking data. It could thus facilitate structured discussions about the value of collecting and using tracking data in order to justify an investment in implementation of unique identities, or to enable collaboration with supply chain partners.
The paper extends the current knowledge base in tracking literature by providing and testing a framework, which aims to explain the overall effect of using tracking data in the decision-making process of managing material flows.
The research methodology is based on a literature review and a case study of a distribution system originating from an international paper manufacturer. The distribution system in the analysis started RFID technology adoption more than ten years ago and has developed to include a comprehensive and well-functioning goods flow. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and through access to company documentation and databases.
The paper provides an analytical structure (a framework) explaining the value of using tracking data in different supply chain areas. The analytical structure identifies three areas, i.e. planning flexibility, process control and integration, where utilisation of tracking data
affects logistics performance. For these three areas, it explains the impact of utilisation of tracking data on manufacturing, transport, inventory and customer gains.
The framework is tested on empirical data from one case study.
Supply chain managers could use the framework presented to map the value of using tracking data. It could thus facilitate structured discussions about the value of collecting and using tracking data in order to justify an investment in implementation of unique identities, or to enable collaboration with supply chain partners.
The paper extends the current knowledge base in tracking literature by providing and testing a framework, which aims to explain the overall effect of using tracking data in the decision-making process of managing material flows.
Department/s
Publishing year
2009
Language
English
Publication/Series
[Host publication title missing]
Full text
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Document type
Conference paper
Publisher
NOFOMA
Topic
- Other Mechanical Engineering
Keywords
- Identification
- Material flow
- Tracking
- RFID technology
- Case study
- Packaging logistics
Conference name
21th Annual NOFOMA Conference, 2009
Conference date
2009-06-11 - 2009-06-12
Conference place
Jönköping, Sweden
Status
Published
ISBN/ISSN/Other
- ISBN: 978-91-86345-01-3