Wal-Mart upgrades technology usage in stores
Sources from Wal-Mart Stores, recently indicated that the retailer is deploying handheld RFID interrogators. These interrogators are mobile computers that help store staff to pick products that need to be brought out to the sales floor. They have the ability to scan a bar code or alternatively read an RFID tag. Further, these interrogators beep loudly when they are close to an RFID tag. As a result, the associates can find the required cases at a much faster speed.
To further enhance efficiency, the store is also planning to start using forklift reader. This would eliminate the need to install portal interrogators around dock doors and at its distribution centers. These readers read the tags on the pallets that the forklift is carrying and can also read shelf tags. These also possess the ability to decipher location tags that are embedded in the floor of the store. As a result, these would assist retailers in increasing efficiency by helping them to track the exact location of the required pallet much faster.
These efforts are a part of Wal-Marts effort to upgrade its current RFID systems that would improve the stores work efficiency globally.
In the year 2002, as a part of the Auto-ID Center field trial, the company had introduced RFID readers. Since the technology was new to the organization, it took a lot of time to install them. With time, the company became comfortable with the installation process and the usage. As a result, they can now deploy interrogators at a much faster pace.
With the fact cleared established that technology can truly boost efficiency, Wal-Marts decision to upgrade would definitely work to the advantage of the organization.
Subscribe to the comments for this post