Towards a framework for designing logistical RFID systems
Author
Summary, in English
Purpose of this paper
The current RFID technology literature considers several issues. However, the implementation models and guidelines available in this literature are quite fragmented and lack certain elements. The purpose of this paper is thus to put all relevant elements together and discuss them within a comprehensive framework for designing logistical RFID systems.
Design/methodology/approach
Two case studies and a literature review are combined. One case study was conducted in the retail industry illustrating RFID technology used in a supply chain and the other was conducted in the packaging industry illustrating RFID technology in a closed-loop setting.
Findings
Critical elements regarding an RFID system designed to improve logistics and supply chain management are identified. Based on logical analysis, these elements are structured in a framework for designing logistical RFID systems. The elements are clustered in four areas; internal options, internal restrictions, external restrictions and logistical impact. The interaction of these areas and their potential impact on logistics are discussed.
Research limitations/implications
Additional analysis is needed to investigate whether the framework is adaptable to various industries and whether it could be extended with further elements. Furthermore, the level of importance of the different elements should be statistically investigated.
Practical implications
The suggested framework offers supply chain managers a structured approach to designing a logistical RFID system. The framework makes it easier for supply chain managers to have realistic potential expectations of RFID technology and to consider critical aspects of it.
What is original/value of paper
This paper extends the current literature on RFID implementation, which contains rather fragmented implementation models and guidelines.
The current RFID technology literature considers several issues. However, the implementation models and guidelines available in this literature are quite fragmented and lack certain elements. The purpose of this paper is thus to put all relevant elements together and discuss them within a comprehensive framework for designing logistical RFID systems.
Design/methodology/approach
Two case studies and a literature review are combined. One case study was conducted in the retail industry illustrating RFID technology used in a supply chain and the other was conducted in the packaging industry illustrating RFID technology in a closed-loop setting.
Findings
Critical elements regarding an RFID system designed to improve logistics and supply chain management are identified. Based on logical analysis, these elements are structured in a framework for designing logistical RFID systems. The elements are clustered in four areas; internal options, internal restrictions, external restrictions and logistical impact. The interaction of these areas and their potential impact on logistics are discussed.
Research limitations/implications
Additional analysis is needed to investigate whether the framework is adaptable to various industries and whether it could be extended with further elements. Furthermore, the level of importance of the different elements should be statistically investigated.
Practical implications
The suggested framework offers supply chain managers a structured approach to designing a logistical RFID system. The framework makes it easier for supply chain managers to have realistic potential expectations of RFID technology and to consider critical aspects of it.
What is original/value of paper
This paper extends the current literature on RFID implementation, which contains rather fragmented implementation models and guidelines.
Department/s
Publishing year
2008
Language
English
Full text
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Document type
Conference paper
Topic
- Other Mechanical Engineering
Keywords
- Supply chain management
- Case study
- Information technology
- Supply chain integration
- RFID technology
- Process improvement
- Packaging logistics
- Literature review
Conference name
20th Annual NOFOMA Conference, 2008
Conference date
2008-06-05 - 2008-06-06
Conference place
Helsinki, Finland
Status
Published