Jul 5, 2016

rfid tracking tagRadio frequency identification (RFID) technology is most commonly used within our industry to track the placement of products within warehouses. But more than that, RFID trackers allow companies to reduce cargo theft liabilities, track carrier performance and streamline day-to-day operations.

While implementation of an RFID program can allow for all of these benefits and more, it can take some time to get there. But rest assured, there’s a few ways leadership teams can make the entire process simple.

All the ducks are in a row
The RFID task force team has determined the type, read range and size of the tags that will be implemented. They’ve created a plan to tackle interference. They’ve chosen which vendor will supply the tags. And they’ve developed a strategy for how the tags will be attached to the assets needing to be tracked.

The next logical step seems to be a full-scale roll out, right? Not so fast. A successful implementation should always start with testing.

Run a pilot program
A small-scale pilot program should highlight any problem areas. It will also allow for tweaks to be made to the implementation process prior to involving the entire warehouse team.

The pilot program should be implemented for a small number of assets and involve a dedicated testing team. This team should document the entire process from start to finish, as well as any issues that should arise with implementation. Then, the program should be taken a step further to determine the successful tracking of assets from the initial tagging through to the end of its lifecycle.  

Measure results
The pilot program team should have expectations and goals in mind prior to starting the testing phase. With that set of criteria in mind, the team should measure the results throughout each step of the process. When the small-scale pilot has been deemed a success more than 90 percent of the time, then the full-scale implementation can begin.

Ready, set, implement
Once the leadership team has determined the RFID system is ready to be implemented across the board, it’s important to spend a significant amount of time training the teams that will be working with the technology. It’s best to be over prepared than to struggle through major bumps during the implementation process.

Take it from the professionals at King Solutions, RFID tracking technology isn’t just a trend, it’s here to stay, so a smooth and successful implementation will ensure your team is set-up for the future.

Want to learn more about how our team uses this technology for our partners? Contact us today, we’re happy to let you pick our brains. Â