The impact of real-time data communication on inventory management

Many current and future distribution systems cannot tolerate data capture delays found in periodic batch processing and reporting of inventory quantities, their locations and movement. The increased inventory accuracy and timeliness of real-time data permits the whole spectrum of activities of suppliers, sales and distribution personnel and customers to be performed with confidence and improved profitability. One method of real-time data collection is via bar-coding, scanning and two-way radio frequency (RF) transmission. This provides a “wireless connector” to the host computer no matter what type of items are being manufactured and/or distributed. RF systems integrate the technologies of automatic identification systems (AIS), bar-coding, automatic data capture (ADC) and enhance electronic data interchange (EDI) and quick response (QR) systems. Together with other subsystems, manufacturing and distribution firms are better able to control inventory operations and compete more effectively in servicing domestic and international customers.