Radio frequency identification (RFID) has become an indispensable tool that allows manufacturers to see information about assets in real time. Applications built around RFID help report immediate deviations and exceptions to any process. RFID has allowed companies to build authentication and confirmation into previously error-prone processes.

“By monitoring assets such as tooling, raw materials, work in progress, computers, vehicles, and any moveable assets, companies can know quickly, exactly, and securely where assets are located,” says John Rattray, of Memex Automation. “RFID is eliminating costly mistakes, resulting in fewer manufacturing errors. These errors were due to wrong parts used or wrong specification settings. RFID is being used to locate semi-finished goods and eliminate delays due to lost or hard-to-find inventories. RFID works hand in hand with operating equipment efficiency, lean, and Six Sigma principles.”

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