Rfid Technology and Supply Chain Management: Evidence from Three Industries

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is a disruptive technology that transmits information like barcodes but does not need “line of sight” contact to function. These systems allow managers to better monitor the supply chain by transmitting data in real time. Faster, more accurate information helps managers to make better decisions. Companies like Procter and Gamble have reduced inventory by 70% (Thonemann, 2002). What benefits are there to be had from the wide implementation of RFID? Are barcodes a legacy technology? How do RFID tags increase efficiencies? To answer these questions, this research examines RFID implementation within the contexts of the 1) retail, 2) healthcare, and 3) criminal justice sectors. A SWOT (strength, weakness, opportunity, threat) analysis approach is utilized to synthesize results from these industries. The primary findings of this study offer serious insights and implications for the future of RFID technology and the leverage within supply-chain management systems. RFID, Radio Frequency Identification, Supply Chain Management,