Radio Frequency Identification Adoption Research Articles

Assessing the Feasibility of Passive and BAP RFID Communications on Construction Site Scenarios

In order to efficiently manage construction operations, assessing the current status of both engineered components and the field processes making use of those components is regarded as critical. To date, active radio-frequency identification (RFID) technologies are slowly becoming adopted on construction sites by the owners and contractor organizations in order to track unique engineered components and the processes making use of those components. Although the construction industry has shown a strong interest in adopting active RFID tags due to their potential to innovate and streamline existing processes, such active RFID adoption and usage is regarded as costly and hence advances at a very slow pace. To date, there has not yet been a thorough study on passive and battery-assisted passive (BAP) tags to assess their feasibility to effectively communicate within construction sites. Construction sites are characterized by clustered scenarios under varying, unpredictable, and harsh conditions. In this paper, we report on our analysis and experimental results about the feasible utilization of passive and BAP tags to track the identification of construction components under clustered project site conditions. We modified an EPC RFID monitoring system to leverage and monitor the performance and characteristics of RFID communications in a clustered heating plant. Such communications were then compared with those monitored with the same technologies in an ideal laboratory environment with a clear free-air line-of-sight. The results indicate that, due to multipath effects in metal-crowded scenarios, tags can actually perform better in such scenarios.

Factors affecting RFID adoption in the agricultural product distribution industry: empirical evidence from China.

We conducted an exploratory investigation of factors influencing the adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) methods in the agricultural product distribution industry. Through a literature review and field research, and based on the technology–organization–environment (TOE) theoretical framework, this paper analyzes factors influencing RFID adoption in the agricultural product distribution industry in reference to three contexts: technological, organizational, and environmental contexts. An empirical analysis of the TOE framework was conducted by applying structural equation modeling based on actual data from a questionnaire survey on the agricultural product distribution industry in China. The results show that employee resistance and uncertainty are not supported by the model. Technological compatibility, perceived effectiveness, organizational size, upper management support, trust between enterprises, technical knowledge, competitive pressure and support from the Chinese government, which are supported by the model, have significantly positive effects on RFID adoption. Meanwhile, organizational size has the strongest positive effect, while competitive pressure levels have the smallest effect. Technological complexities and costs have significantly negative effects on RFID adoption, with cost being the most significantly negative influencing factor. These research findings will afford enterprises in the agricultural products supply chain with a stronger understanding of the factors that influence RFID adoption in the agricultural product distribution industry. In addition, these findings will help enterprises remain aware of how these factors affect RFID adoption and will thus help enterprises make more accurate and rational decisions by promoting RFID application in the agricultural product distribution industry.

The effectiveness of RFID in backroom and sales floor inventory management

Purpose Perceived as an antidote to poor execution, interest in radio frequency identification (RFID)-enabled visibility has grown. The purpose of this paper is to examine whether and how RFID-enabled visibility with item-level tagging improves store execution. Design/methodology/approach The authors conducted three field-based experiments in collaboration with two Fortune 500 retailers. Findings RFID-enabled visibility resulted in a sizable decrease in inventory record inaccuracy and out-of-stocks for inventory held in both the backroom and on the sales floor. The decrease in inventory record inaccuracy and out-of-stocks was even greater among products stored primarily on the sales floor suggesting the benefits from increased visibility accrue to sales floor inventory management processes. In contrast, the authors found no significant improvement in inventory record inaccuracy and no substantive improvement in out-of-stocks among products stored primarily in the backroom suggesting that increased visibility does not improve backroom management processes. Practical implications The authors recommend retailers focus on sales floor inventory management when seeking to improve store execution through the adoption of RFID-enabled visibility. In the context, only partial evidence exists that backroom inventory management improves with RFID-enabled visibility. Originality/value Retailers seeking to invest in RFID technology must estimate potential performance improvements before making firm-specific cost-benefit analyses. They must also understand where and how these performance improvements will accrue. This research uniquely presents the results of a three field experiments that quantify the changes in retail execution associated with RFID adoption.

An imperfect production model under Radio Frequency Identification adoption and trade credit

We develop an economic production quantity model on the basis of radio frequency identification (RFID) adoption, trade credit, and reworking of imperfect products. We determine the optimal values of production cycle time and RFID investment levels for ordering, just-in-time, and operating efficiencies. On the basis of the relationship between the demand and reworking rates, we classify the model into two cases. Furthermore, on the basis of the relationship between production cycle time and credit period, we divide each case into four subcases. We derive the total manufacturing cost for the subcases and develop an algorithm to solve the four-branch piecewise nonlinear problem. Finally, we illustrate the solution approach and perform numerical analyses to discuss the influences of system parameters on decisions.

A technology adoption and implementation process in an independent hotel chain

Successful technological initiatives in the hospitality industry are a product of a well-planned and executed innovation adoption process. This qualitative study investigated the adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) enabled locking technology in an independent hospitality company as a mechanism for service innovation and improved internal process efficiency. Findings from the research generated themes significantly impacting the knowledge and persuasion stages of the diffusion of innovations (DOI) adoption process. Results produced theoretical implications which suggest the dual nature of adoption process in the service industries, as well as practical recommendations for the implementation of new technologies in the hospitality industry.

Determinants of RFID adoption stage and perceived benefits

This study identifies the determinants of radio frequency identification (RFID) adoption stage and explores the perceived benefits from RFID adoption. RFID adoption is divided into three stages, starting from not considering the adoption (Stage 1), to begin considering the adoption (Stage 2) and to finally implementing RFID (Stage 3). It is argued that a firm's RFID adoption stage is influenced by the following factors: Drivers (Internal Drivers and External Drivers), Management Leadership (Top Management Leadership and Middle-level Management Leadership), and Barriers (Cost Issues, Lack of Understanding, Technical Issues and Privacy Issues). The RFID adoption stage will in turn impact the level of perceived Benefits from RFID implementation. Benefits we measure are Customer Service, Productivity, Asset Management and Communication.Through an on-line survey we collected data from 175 organizations and we used an ordered probit regression model to test the factors influencing RFID adoption stage. Business sector and firm size were entered as control variables. The results show that internal drivers, top management leadership, cost barrier and firm size are significant determinants of the stage of RFID adoption. In addition, two-factor ANOVA were conducted to investigate the impact of RFID adoption stage/firm size on perceived benefits. The findings show that RFID adoption stage has a significant positive impact on each perceived benefit. The results also show that firm size has a significant impact on perceived customer service and productivity benefits. Our results offer new insights into RFID adoption factors and broaden our understanding of RFID technology in the supply chain.

Determinants of RFID adoption intention by SMEs: an empirical investigation

Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology has been considered as one of the 10 technologies that will transform firm across industries. However, the adoption and use of the technology has been slower than predicted, mainly because of technological, organisation and environment factors related to RFID. This study develops a conceptual model that explores the role that technological, organisational, environmental and managerial characteristics of small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) play in their intention to adopt RFID technology. To test the model, a web-based survey was administered to 453 SME managers from the USA, the UK, Australia and India. Logistic hierarchical regression is used to test the proposed model. Implications for RFID technology research, theory and practice are discussed.

Radio frequency identification–enabled monitoring and evaluating in the discrete manufacturing process

Process monitoring is a major focus on improving productivity of discrete manufacturing. With the recent application of new technologies such as radio frequency identification to manufacturing process, real-time production information has become available for decision support in manufacturing system. This study presents a radio frequency identification–based visibility monitoring rule for tracking work-in-process. Specific to the aviation manufacturing shop floor, a case study for demonstration is designed. The value of radio frequency identification–enabled real-time information is investigated within the discrete manufacturing operation. For this purpose, a simplified simulation model is developed to test the benefit of radio frequency identification–based rule compared to the classical scheduling rule. The results indicate that the adoption of radio frequency identification brings better production performance.

Strategic values of technology-driven innovation in inventory management: a case study of Zara's RFID implementation

Inventory management has always been at the top of the agenda in the fast fashion business. Companies compete largely on strategic inventory management, which empowers quick market responsiveness. Much interest has recently been aroused by the use of radio frequency identification (RFID) in enabling product visibility along the supply chain. This paper presents a case study of Zara's RFID deployment, one of the largest-scale implementations in the industry, based on secondary data. It explores how Zara's RFID adoption aligns with its existing supply chain structure, business model and IT infrastructure. By drawing on the IT value hierarchy model (Urwiler and Frolick, 2008) in information systems literature, this paper creates a showcase for technology-enabled innovation that brings competitive differentiation in the context of inventory management in the fast fashion industry.

Research on robust multi-period inventory inaccuracy based on RFID technology

Inventory inaccuracy has great influence on the supply chain performance and it has attracted much attention of large numbers of researchers. This paper mainly studies the robust multi-period inventory inaccuracy problem by attaching radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. In particular, the typical retailer-supplier flexible commitment (RSFC) problem is considered to cope with the uncertain environment. After modeling, robust optimization (RO) and the affinely adjustable robust counterpart (AARC) methodology are applied to solve the model. Finally, this paper uses a numerical example for the analysis of how RFID technology can be exploited in supply chain, and the effect of demand uncertainty on the systems. The results highlight the importance of inventory availability related rates and variable uncertainty in determining the profitability of RFID adoption, which can provide managerial guidelines to supply chain firms.

Applications of RFID Technology [Book\/Software Reviews

This book is intended for radiofrequency identification (RFID) system designers, program managers, and regulators. It covers broad aspects of RFID requirements and RFID environments. The first chapter of this book offers an introduction to radiofrequency identification (RFID) history, applications, business applications, and standards. The remaining chapters focus on: radio-frequency spectrum and propagation, the theory of electromagnetism and Maxwell’s equations, near field, far field, and EH field; automatic identification systems (AISs; RFID standards, air interface, key players, and an example of an ultrahigh frequency (UHF) tags; RFID near-field and far-field propagation of low-frequency systems and high-frequency/microwave systems; RFID system design requirements; integrating RFIDs and sensor networks; and RFID market trends, barriers to RFID adoption, security, privacy, health risks, ethics, and moral dilemmas of RFID technology.

The impact of RFID technologies on inventory accuracy in the apparel retailing: Evidence from the field

In this paper, we assess the level of inventory accuracy that can be reached by adopting radio frequency identification (RFID) technology for inventory count operations in the fashion retailing. Thanks to an in-field implementation, we carried out two series of RFID inventory counts and compared the resulting accuracy level with that obtained exploiting the traditional barcode (BC) technology, so as to highlight the main pros and cons of the RFID adoption. As a general conclusion, the findings from the experimental campaigns and the analyses carried out suggest that RFID inventory counts are more reliable than BC ones. Moreover, under several circumstances, RFID allows detecting out-of-stock situations that are not evident when using either the BC technology or the inventory data stored in the company’ information system. From those findings, a trend of the inventory accuracy as a function of the time required for RFID inventory counts is empirically derived. Such a trend can be exploited in practical cases to estimate the accuracy level achievable with inventory counts depending on the time dedicated to those activities.

A conceptual framework of RFID adoption in retail using Rogers stage model

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to develop a research model that links Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) adoption issues with established technology adoption stages suggested by Rogers theory of diffusion of innovation (DOI). The research model proposed in this study suggests that RFID adoption in retail industry progresses in different stages.Design/methodology/approach– A mixed methodological perspective is used in this research. Key research issues were identified from a systematic content analysis of trade and academic articles in the first phase.Findings– Data collected from Delphi study is used to test the propositions. It confirms key research issues associated with different adoption stages. Finally, it also confirms that the stages (knowledge, persuasion, design and decision, and implementation) influence RFID adoption decision.Research limitations/implications– The propositions that are developed in the model can be used in future studies for further development. More relevant items should be added to measure each variable. It can also allow future researchers and practitioners to take a more comprehensive approach to look at RFID adoption process as a whole and thus focus on relevant issues across all adoption stages.Practical implications– The research model can provide insights to practitioner to make more informed RFID adoption decisions.Originality/value– Rogers stage model is very important for technology diffusion studies but is not explored much. There is limited research on understanding the overall RFID adoption process. This study is an attempt to bridge that gap and draw attention toward future research in that direction. The research model that is developed links RFID research with existing research in the area of DOI.

Key factors for the adoption of RFID in the logistics industry in Taiwan

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to comprehensively examine the factors that influence the adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) in the logistics industry in Taiwan, and to objectively identify the key factors (KFs) for successful adoption. Design/methodology/approach – First, the factors were collected from a review of the literature, and then arranged in a three-layer hierarchical table. The fuzzy analytic hierarchical process (FAHP) was then used to determine the weighting of each factor, based on the opinions of various logistics professionals. The acceptable advantage concept of VlseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) was then used to identify the KFs. Findings – Nine important factors were identified from the total of eighteen factors, with a total accumulative weight of 64.68 percent, and from these, four KFs were determined: meeting the demands of clients, sharing real-time information, creating advantages in overall delivery, and reducing operational errors. Practical implications – The results show that the logistics industry in Taiwan should focus on the improvement of four KFs when adopting RFID. Eight practical implications of this study are also discussed in the paper. Originality/value – This study used multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) tools to obtain the importance (weighting) of each factor and to identify the KFs that influence the adoption of RFID. The research results can serve as a reference for the logistics industry, enabling firms to better allocate their resources when adopting RFID, and thus, to achieve a good outcome at lower cost and with greater efficiency.

Measuring the benefits of tracking medical treatment through RFId

Purpose– Radio frequency identification (RFId) technology has a great potential to improve process efficiency and effectiveness. However, because of the variety of application areas and achievable benefits, structured assessment models are needed to support managers in the adoption decision. The purpose of this paper is to describe a structured method to support the evaluation of the benefits enabled by RFId technology in medical treatment support in the healthcare industry. The method, and its application to an Italian case study, are deeply illustrated so as to increase the knowledge available to decision makers.Design/methodology/approach– The research underlying this paper has modelled the relationship between the technology and the performance driver of the target process, and then between the performance driver and the measurable key performance indicators of that process. This knowledge, focused on the healthcare industry but still quite general, has been formalised into 12 causal maps. Starting from these maps, a six-step procedure to prioritise the analysis, tailor the maps and adapt (or develop) analytical models to estimate the benefits is presented. The overall method and its application to an Italian case study are deeply illustrated so as to increase the open available knowledge to decision makers.Findings– The findings are twofold: first, the knowledge represented by the causal maps; and second, the findings of the case study, which shows that efficiency benefits can cover the operative expenses of RFId adoption, but need to be integrated with effectiveness benefits in order to fully justify the investment costs.Originality/value– The paper provides a contribution for both researchers and practitioners. As the former are concerned, the paper is a first attempt to fill the existing lack of structured approaches concerning the evaluation of potential benefits of RFId for product traceability within a healthcare facility. As for the latter, the presented method has been developed to practically support all those managers who are evaluating whether to adopt RFId technology in their organisation or not. This contribution has a relevant practicality, as it helps decision makers to address their decisions relying on a sound conceptual baseline, and on objective evaluations.

Enhancing customer lifetime value in fast fashion retailing with RFID initiatives

Fast fashion retailers can achieve superior shop floor performance through deployment of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags at item level. Some of the key benefits of RFID adoption are reduced stock out, reduced labour cost, reduced inventory cost, enhanced visibility, and increased customer satisfaction. This paper aims to examine how fast fashion retailers can adopt RFID to achieve overall business excellence through value added-customer centric approach. The paper gives a better understanding of potential benefits of RFID deployment for fast fashion retailers in terms of enhanced customer lifetime value (CLV). This paper offers a conceptual framework for identifying business value added for a fast fashion retailer upon the RFID deployment and formulates a list of propositions, which form the broad basis of an empirical research agenda. The paper provides a case study of RFID deployment by fast fashion retailer and highlights new directions for further research.

Qualitative analysis of RFID technology applications for healthcare management

Managing facilities effectively is crucial for healthcare organisations. Acquisition of relevant data from the facilities is essential not only for reliable building operations but can also help in monitoring of various tasks which are associated with the health and safety management of the patients. The usage of evolving technologies such as radio frequency identification (RFID) offers comprehensive solutions in information tracking for operations and maintenance works for improved services in the healthcare sector. RFID systems along with other communication technologies increase effectiveness in healthcare operations by reducing costs. Researchers around the globe have presented various solutions based on RFID technology to assist the healthcare professionals in monitoring their patients and assets in the hospital environment remotely to ensure safety and enhancing the working efficiency of healthcare centers' staff. A qualitative analysis of RFID enabled management systems has been presented in this paper along with a brief introduction of operating principles, advantages and limitations of the RFID technology. This paper also outlines the major barriers to RFID adoption in healthcare environments.

An examination on RFID innovation diffusions in Chinese public intelligent transportation services

Radio frequency identification (RFID) has been widely used in not only industries but also public services. As a typical application of RFID, the electronic toll collection (ETC) has great contributes to public transportation services, especially in the developing countries. This study developed a research model based on innovation diffusion theory to identify critical factors impacting the RFID adoption intention in public services. Specifically, it investigated the correlations of perceived characteristics of innovation (PCI), communication channels and government polices with adoption intentions. In total, 180 valid survey datasets of ETC users in China were obtained. The partial least squares structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to analyse the model. The results indicated that the PCI were significant in impacting RFID adoptions. Communication channels had a strong influence on people's perceived relative advantages. A moderate effect of government policies was also found. The theoretical and practical implications were presented later.

Determinants of RFID adoption in Malaysia's healthcare industry: occupational level as a moderator.

With today's highly competitive market in the healthcare industry, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a technology that can be applied by hospitals to improve operational efficiency and to gain a competitive advantage over their competitors. The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors that may effect RFID adoption in Malaysia's healthcare industry. In addition, the moderating role of occupational level was tested. Data was collected from 223 managers as well as healthcare and supporting staffs. This data was analyzed using the partial least squares technique. The results show that perceived ease of use and usefulness, government policy, top management support, and security and privacy concerns have an effect on the intent to adopt RFID in hospitals. There is a wide gap between managers and healthcare staff in terms of the factors that influence RFID adoption. The results of this study will help decision makers as well as managers in the healthcare industry to better understand the determinants of RFID adoption. Additionally, it will assist in the process of RFID adoption, and therefore, spread the usage of RFID technology in more hospitals.

Developing and validating a model explaining the assimilation process of RFID: An empirical study

In this research we studied the assimilation process of a technological innovation (i.e. technovation) called Radio Frequency Identification (RFID). Like many other technovations, RFID is considered as a revolutionary one, but its assimilation is an evolutionary process. Here, we extended the conventional assimilation theories and initiated an intellectual argument by introducing extension as an important stage of assimilation, which is contextual and highly relevant for RFID assimilation process. Data for the empirical tests were collected via survey from 221 livestock farms in Australia that are using RFID for livestock identification and tracing. We examined ten Technology-Organization-Environmental (TOE) factors on four stages of RFID assimilation process. Empirical results, based on Partial Least Square (PLS)-based Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), suggest that assimilation of RFID technovation does involve four stages: initiation, adoption, routinization, and extension. We also found that one single factor may have different effect on different stages of assimilation, which may even be different directioned. For instance, external environmental uncertainty has a positive impact on RFID adoption while it has a negative impact on RFID extension. The paper discusses the results and practical implications in detail.