Wednesday 14 December 2011

Bar Coding And RFID For Effective Inventory Management.

Bar Coding and RFID both are processes that help keep track of each item that enters into the supply chain. This technique is increasingly being used by businesses worldwide because of the convenience with which products can be tracked no matter what stage of production they are at. Although both bar coding and RFID technologies serve similar purposes, their technique differs from each other. Bar coding involves the reading of printed bar codes using laser imaging while in the case of RFID, the codes are read using radio frequency signals. Both these processes significantly help in reducing the costs once they are installed because of the reduced manpower needs that were earlier required to keep track of all items manually.

In the case of these technologies, each item is fitted with a tag on which a unique identification code is entered using a computer system. Each item has a bar code that is different from the rest. This helps identify every item that is in stock so that missing items can be pointed out instantaneously. This not only helps keep track of any discrepancies on the part of employees but also helps increase overall accountability. As the exact stage when products go missing can be determined, the factors responsible for their loss can be properly recorded. This information can be effectively used to eliminate such problems from recurring.

Bar coding forms an essential part of an effective inventory management system as without the maintenance of complete and comprehensive records of the stock, a firm cannot hope to maximize its sales or profits. There are a host of advantages that have been known to accrue to businesses that incorporate bar coding into their inventory management systems. There is a certain amount of training that needs to be imparted to employees on the use of bar coding technologies initially for the seamless transition to this method of maintaining inventory related records. This can be provided by holding workshops for the same and educating the employees regarding the benefits and correct usage of bar coding and RFID.

McLane Logistics Technology provides Inventory Management Software system for effective Inventory Management in your business firm. For more details visit them at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call at 1-800-989-7568.