An exploratory study of RFID implementation in the supply chain

Abstract

Purpose -The purpose of this study is to investigate the barriers and motivations for adopting RFID, the level of RFID implementation, the processes RFID is utilized in, and issues in the deployment of RFID. Design/methodology/approach -a survey instrument was developed based on a literature review. The survey was then distributed to the members of the Association for Operations Management (APICS) Rhode Island and Boston chapters. The results were then analyzed. Findings -It was found that the majority of the surveyed firms are not considering RFID implementation. Lack of a business case and lack of understanding were cited as their main concerns. For firms considering RFID implementation and firms that had implemented RFID, better inventory management, obtaining competitive advantage and cost reduction were the three most important motivations for adopting RFID. Financial concerns and the lack of a business case were the most prevalent issues. In addition, product tracking (pallets, cases and items) in shipping was the most cited RFID application. It was also found that considering firms are facing less pressure from customers to adopt RFID and reported a much higher degree of apprehension regarding potential issues than implementing firms reported for actual difficulties faced. Research limitations -One of the limitations was the small sample size (n=49) which may limit the generalizability of the results. Originality/value -By identifying barriers, motivations, and issues in the implementation of RFID, this study further educates practitioners on the challenges and opportunities of RFID, as well as provides direction to academicians for further research on this area.

Accessing antecedents and outcomes of RFID implementation in health care

“…The top three RFID barriers identified by were not applicable in our business, initial costs are too high, and expected benefits are not enough. The survey results of Li et al (2010) were similar to Vijayaraman and Osyk (2006), where financial concerns was rated highest, followed by lack of a business case, and technology. Interestingly, privacy and environmental impact were the two lowest rated barriers.…”

“…We reviewed the three empirical supply chain surveys conducted by Vijayaraman and Osyk (2006), and Li et al (2010) to identify internal reasons companies' implemented RFID technology. An analysis of the survey items identified several categories including visibility, efficiency, asset management, security, customer service, collaboration and cost reduction.…”

“…In the health care environment, unauthorized changes to a patients' tag might result in health complications or even death. Only two studies Li et al, 2010) discussed the environmental problems of RFID readers and tags. Readers emit radiation when they transmit a signal creating a health risk to workers, and tags are non-biodegradable and may contain toxic metals.…”

“…The Li et al (2010) survey found that organizations with RFID experience (piloting, implementing, implemented) rated competitive decision as the highest of six categories for the motivation to implement RFID technology, while respondents considering RFID implementation within two years rated competitive advantage the third highest motivation. Competitive advantage was measured using the survey items strategic initiative and competitive advantage.…”

“…Future research should validate the constructs developed in this paper using a larger sample size. FDA (2004), Vijayaraman and Osyk (2006), Wicks et al (2006), , Correa et al (2007), Li et al (2010) Implementation Level…”