ERP Software

ERP Supply Chain Open Source Software Couples with RFID

Some companies, like Wal-Mart, require their suppliers use Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to tag inventory.  This means that all suppliers need some type of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Supply Chain software that interacts with RFID.  In Wal-Mart’s case, they operate RFID with SAP Supply Chain software.  However, RFID functions with open source software as well.  For example, open source vendor, RadioActive, offers an open source suite of RFID applications.

Using open source ERP Supply Chain and Inventory control software allows you to easily scan your merchandise using radio frequency.  The RFID tags have encoded data that tells you what is contained in the shipments.  The open source ERP supply chain and inventory software system interprets the data from the tag and immediately directs the merchandise to a warehouse location.  The open source software prints a label at the same time, which you put on the merchandise as it continues on to its warehouse location. 

Open source tools for developers are growing vast and wide making open source development easier.  But, don’t run out and jump on the open source ERP Supply Chain band wagon.  Evaluate other types of software solutions.  Evaluate your business needs.  Go to ERP Supply Chain vendor websites and take their demos for a ride.   Keep in mind that licensed ERP Supply Chain software has most likely been better tested to work with RFID.   Wal-Mart is experiencing great success with SAP Supply Chain integrated with RFID. 

Small organizations might have a better chance of implementing open source versus an on-site licensed solution.  Smaller organizations typically have less need for customizations and functionality.  However, big businesses don’t need to spend big to have a highly functional ERP Supply Chain RFID system.    Hosted ERP Supply Chain systems provide extensive functionality and cost less then on-site systems.  Many large ERP vendors like Oracle and SAP offer hosted solutions.  Software as a Service (SaaS) is another option. 

Today, in the year 2010, the economy is recovering from a recession.  Keep this in mind when you choose an ERP Supply Chain and RFID solution.  Make that vendor work for you, as you need not work for them by adjusting your business to their solution.  Choose a solution that is easy to use.  Why spend tons of money only to have a technically and functionally challenging solution?  You don’t want to have to spend weeks in class trying to understand simple tasks.  And, you don’t want your employees to have to do the same.  User-friendly applications make every happy.

Written by :

tracey boxer