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Learn how to optimize your inventory process using technology such as scanners, tablets, barcodes, and RFID. Discover the benefits of automation and improve accuracy, accountability, and efficiency.
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Using Technology to Streamline the Inventory Process Sean Pugatch, AssetWorks Sean.Pugatch@assetworks.com1-512-347-7400 ext. 1865
Methods of Conducting an Inventory • Wall-to-Wall Inventory • Inventory by Exception • Inventory by Random Sample
Wall-to-Wall Inventory • An inventory of ALL items in a given location. • Systematic approach • Time-consuming • More accurate than some methods (especially if automated).
Inventory by Exception • Counts items that have been “touched” recently as already inventoried. • Saves time and effort • Can miss new items • May still need to supplement with wall-to-wall inventory.
Inventory by Random Sample • Inventory asubset of assets, identified by a statistically valid and random sample. • Greatest opportunity for saving time / $$ • May be less accurate than desired All Assets Sample
Using Technology in the Inventory Process • Scanners and Tablets • Barcodes and RFID • Overall Benefits
Scanners and Tablets • Both effective ways to automate inventory • Can increaseaccuracy and accountability • Provide real-time results when synced w/database • Can improve processes for all types of inventory
Scanners and Tablets: Additional Considerations • Does the device need to work offline? • Will there be good lighting in all areas? • How much battery life will I need? • What is the read range for the device? • What accessories are available?
Barcode Tags and RFID:Some Common Misconceptions of RFID • 1. RFID will eliminate the need for physical asset verification • 2. RFID will allow me to inventory assets from a long distance • 3. RFID will eliminate the search for assets in the field
Barcode Tags and RFID:Understanding Types of RFID • Active RFID ($$$$) • Continuous internal battery • Larger in size • Store up to 128 kb of data • Read/Write capability • Applications: vehicles, military, livestock, pharmaceuticals • Passive RFID ($$) • No internal battery – powered by energy emitted from reader • Smaller in size • Store up to 128 kb of data • Read/Write capability • Applications: consumer goods, inventory, books, smart cards
Which is best for inventory? • Battery: Tag only needs to emit frequency when prompted by a reader. • Size: Though human readable capability is required, the smaller the better. • Data Storage: Asset ID ties all current asset details to a master profile. Storage size becomes a non-issue. • Read/Write:Tags will be used simply for asset identification purposes. Write capabilities are not necessary. • $: Cost can make RFID implementations unattainable. Passive RFID Tags
Barcode Tags and RFID:Understanding Types of RFID • High Frequency RFID ($) • Store large amounts of data • Very short read range • Secure communication • Applications: libraries, textiles, documents, healthcare • Ultra High Frequency RFID ($$) • Store small amounts of data • Longer read range • No secure communication • Applications: warehouse management, pallet identification, inventory, healthcare
Which is best for inventory? • Data: Only record asset ID. No need for large amount of coded data. • Read Range: The longer the read range the better. • Data Security: Sensitive data will not be stored in the RFID tag, therefore secure communications is not an issue. • $: Cost is a major consideration, but read range is necessary. Ultra High Frequency RFID Tags
Barcode Tags and RFID: Use Both for Exceptional Results • RFID • Difficult to reach assets • Difficult to reach asset tags (hidden, high) • Assets that should not be handled • Assets that are highly mobile • Barcode Tag • All other equipment
Benefits to using Technology in the Inventory Process • Save time and $$ • Increase accuracy • Increase accountability • Simplify reconciliation
Thank you! Any Questions? _______________________ Contact Information: Sean.Pugatch@assetworks.com1-512-347-7400 ext. 1865