Because of market and regulatory mandates, companies in life sciences, retail, consumer packaged goods and other industries are turning to radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to improve supply chain security, efficiency and visibility. As its name suggests, RFID devices use radio frequencies to automatically communicate electronic product codes or other information automatically over varied distances to compatible readers. Consisting of chips and antennas, RFID tags provide instant verification of any goods or people to which they are attached. As they initiate pilot programs, companies must think big and start smart. This is how they can most efficiently deliver returns on what are likely to be sizable investments. Organizations that rush forward with large-scale pilots and implementations may put themselves at risk of data overload, excessive spending and operational gridlock.

There are many opportunities to generate value with RFID, from reduced transportation costs and increased labor efficiencies to improved inventory and returns management. But only companies that adopt an intelligent, holistic implementation approach are likely to realize these benefits. The key is to prepare the organization for the RFID revolution, by developing a clear strategy that matches RFID investments to bottom-line business benefits and leverages emerging best practices and standards.

Courtesy Unisys Corporation: www.unisys.com/services/global__commerce__visibility/index.htm