More and more businesses embrace technology solutions like radio frequency identification technology (RFID) to automate their data capturing and tracking processes. Despite its popularity and proven values, there are many misunderstandings about RFID and its effectiveness. Here are a few of them:
RFID Is Only Used By Big Brands
Since RFID provides an efficient way of tracking, tracing, and monitoring assets, big companies were one of the first to adopt this technology. However, today, enterprises of all sizes can benefit from improved visibility and management aided by RFID regardless of their budget limits.
RFID Requires A Barcode System
Many businesses that use barcode systems have adopted RFID to transition from manual operations to a fully automated system. But a barcode system is not necessary for RFID. You can shift straight to RFID exclusively or improve incrementally and start with barcoding while working towards a more sophisticated approach.
RFID Will Replace Barcoding
In the early days of RFID, many thought that it would completely replace barcoding. This is not true. RFID is more expensive, and many use cases highlight that barcoding is sufficient to meet a business’s needs. On the other hand, if barcoding requires your workers to do too much manual work during scanning, RFID technology will help to make this process more efficient and accurate with a better ROI.
RFID Provides Real-Time Location Information
While it’s a great benefit, not everyone needs to track the location of the items in real-time. Passive RFID solutions offer previously known location information that is sufficient and produces the desired outcomes. Most assume that active RFID tags can give more accurate location information than passive ones, but properly designed RFID tags are accurate within 2-4 feet.
RFID Is Only For Inventory
While RFID is widely used in inventory management, it has many other applications as well. Whether it is equipment and asset tracking, work-in-process tracking, checking items in or out, monitoring chain of custody, or maintenance, RFID has applications in various fields. RFID helps to accurately identify, track and locate items, which is particularly handy when the items are business-critical or high-value assets.
RFID Produces A Privacy Problem
Many are concerned that the RFID tags that track company assets can be used to track their movements or create profiles. RFID technology helps to track employee movement on the premises and limit access to restricted areas. If the building needs to be evacuated because of a fire, the tracking system can help confirm that employees are out of harm’s way.
RFID Can Solve Any Inventory Problem
Just like any other technology, RFID does not solve any conceivable business problem. Not to mention that not every RFID system is the same. Each solution is unique to the business and is tailored to their needs. While RFID can solve most asset tracking and inventory problems, it is best to work with an experienced technology partner who can help you design, implement, and maintain the right system for your needs.
RFID Is Completely Accurate<
While RFID is accurate up to 99.5%, complete accuracy is not guaranteed since it depends on how and where you implement this technology. An RFID provider can help you construct the best solution for each use case and determine whether active, passive, or a combination of both works for you using the right components, including tags, readers, and antennas.
RFID Transition Is A Tough Challenge
Implementing RFID systems can be challenging, especially if the business needs a highly complex, sophisticated, and comprehensive large-scale solution. By working with an RFID expert, you can identify your business goals and explore how RFID can help you improve your workflow and achieve your goals.
RFID Is Difficult To Implement For Effective ROI
While the cost of implementing RFID solutions is more, it also reduces time and improves ROI when it is tailored specifically to your business needs and processes. Partnering with a trusted provider who can implement the right RFID solution is a good start.
If you are considering RFID for inventory management, asset tracking, maintenance, or any other application, feel free to contact us at Trakaid.