New Item-level RFID study finds boost in speed and accuracy
27 August, 2009
category: RFID
Bloomingdale’s and the University of Arkansas recently conducted a study comparing the accuracy and speed of inventory counts at two Bloomingdale’s stores: one outfitted with item-level RFID tracking equipment, the other limited to using bar codes. The study focused on the same limited product area for both stores (denim jeans).
The item-level store was equipped with static readers placed at all entrances and exits, as well as hand held readers for employees to conduct inventory counting. The approximately 10,000 items used in the study were outfitted with RFID tags upon arrival at the store.
The study, conducted over 13 weeks, found that the item-level store experienced a 27% boost in adjusted overall inventory accuracy and achieved 96% faster inventory counts over the control store. It was discovered that on average, 4,767 items could be counted per hour using RFID, and only 209 items could be counted per hour with bar codes. Additionally, the item-level store experienced a 21% decrease in understock.
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