The introduction of radio frequency identification or RFID has streamlined most business activities, improving efficiency and reducing costs. For instance, it can be used for inspecting business equipment, controlling manufacturing processes, managing assets, and tracking and distributing goods.
Typically, an RFID system employs three components: a transceiver, a scanning antenna, and an RFID tag. It operates using a small device with a microchip that can hold massive amounts of information.
Today, different RFID systems are suited to specific applications and have different types of technology, readers, and tags. The RFID tags are further classified by frequency levels (low, high, and ultrahigh) and how the tag connects with the reader (active or passive). The read range for an RFID tag depends on certain factors, including reader type, RFID frequency, tag type, and disruptions in the environment.
Read further to discover more about the applications of RFID in Dubai and its benefits to modern businesses, regardless of the industry.
5 Common Uses for RFID
RFID systems can be employed in different industries, but here are the common RFID applications today.
1. Asset tracking
Tracking assets is highly beneficial across industries. With a reliable system that allows users to share data across different business units, you can collect valuable actionable data. From the supply chain through the point of sales, everything will be accounted for. Most importantly, anyone can count inventory in minutes using a portable RFID reader.
2. People tracking
RFID systems have features like attendance management systems, message services, parents’ tracking systems, and student location tracking. In addition to the education sector, the RFID system can also be used in other industries like healthcare, financial services, retail, distribution, and logistics.
For instance, the RFID attendee solution can eliminate registration lines at entrances and track traffic flow when managing a conference. Moreover, the data obtained during the event, like the number of booths visited or sessions attended and the duration guests spent at each booth and demos, can be used to make your next event more engaging and successful.
3. Material management
In factories, warehouses, and construction industries, materials are the largest expenditure. Finding materials can also be a hassle. With a reliable RFID solution, guesswork can be taken out of the equation.
4. Access control
In any industry, some areas require a high level of security and limited access. From parking lots to doors, RFID tags can restrict entry only to authorized personnel.
5. Real-time location system
In most business applications, tracking the real-time location of employees, assets, and customers is crucial. Whether you need to measure the effectiveness of a new store floor plan or the efficiency of employee movements, or monitor the current location of your valuable resources, RFID technology can provide real-time visibility in different locations.
6 Benefits of RFID Systems
RFID technology can benefit your business in several ways.
1. Improve employee productivity
Since RFID systems automate different processes, employees are spared from some labor-intensive tasks like searching for misplaced tools and taking inventory. With a reduced workload, they will have enough time to focus more on other important tasks, thus increasing their daily productivity.
2. Prevent errors
Human error is one of the main drawbacks of manually tracking business assets. On the contrary, RFID systems eliminate the need for human intervention. Since the technology is automated, the workflow will improve drastically, preventing confusion and errors.
In an industry where people are doing the same tasks, RFID systems can eliminate errors due to duplication and misunderstanding. It can also help prevent failure to record data associated with the tasks performed by each worker. Different team members can use RFID tags to update any progress in specific projects.
3. Readily provide relevant data
Businesses need access to pertinent data. Whether it is about quality assurance, the latest shipment, or reaching the quarterly quota, all these pieces of information are crucial in making the right decision. Thanks to RFID systems, everything can be made readily available anytime through a computer, smart device, or a cloud-based system.
4. Prevent lost items
Since RFID systems can help you monitor equipment and products, you will know immediately whether misplacement, theft, or mistakes in delivery occur. Tagged objects can be tracked in real time, allowing you to perform investigations and make informed decisions quickly.
5. Improve customers’ shopping experiences
RFID systems can be used in retail stores and shopping malls in Dubai to improve a customer’s shopping experience in different ways.
By analyzing the movement of RFID-tagged items in the store, you can learn how customers navigate your premises and which products are in high demand. You can then use this data to make the necessary adjustments in terms of product placements and purchases.
6. Boost security
RFID systems can be used to boost security inside business premises. With all the assets having tags, deceitful individuals can’t take them out without paying for them because scanners on the exits will set off alarms. Company-owned supplies and equipment can also be tagged to eliminate theft within the premises.
RFID systems are equipped with essential features to ensure that businesses run smoothly and all assets are safe and well-accounted for. But not all RFID systems are created equal, so make sure to be meticulous when deciding which technology to use. Work only with the best solution providers in retail analytics and business intelligence who can help you identify the areas that require RFID and the processes that must be changed.
