The time needed to implement an RFID system greatly depends on the scope of the implementation. But assuming it’s a purely mobile-play solution where assets are tagged with RFID and mobile computers are used to inventory these tags, RFID technology can be implemented within a couple days. On the other end of that range, it can take up to a few months if you’re implementing in a large warehouse, where you may be trying to build portal technology across thirty overhead doors and all the physical equipment that needs to be installed and configured. Also take into consideration the required time for training and developing the new processes for the key stakeholders.

The RFID Installation Process

One of the key steps to any RFID installation process is to understand the breakdown of your workflows. Assuming that we’re talking about using fixed antennas and readers for a large area, you need to determine where you are experiencing the most loss of signal strength and truly isolate the weak signals. The next step would be to devise a workflow solution and test it thoroughly for read range and performance to make sure that it is effective in your particular environment. Generally, for this type of sophisticated “Gap Analysis” we encourage the organization to bring in an asset tracking consultant, like A2B Tracking. The asset tracking consultant will then design a plan for implementation and that plan should be delivered as part of the site visit reporting.

Once the implementation plan is agreed upon, you can move forward with configuring your software as well as acquire and install all of the needed infrastructures. Once the hardware and software are in place you will need to take the time to configure the software, tune the hardware, and get it working properly as a cohesive unit and system. As soon as your new RFID system is operating properly, we would recommend a dry run with a professional services team to validate the effectiveness of the system.  The final step is training and documentation for your team in order to develop an efficient workflow moving forward.

Install RFID Technology without a Hitch

Having the right people involved during the RFID installation process is needed to ensure the successful deployment of this technology. Assuming, a lot of fixed equipment is being installed as well as software, having a Facilities manager along with an IT specialist is fairly critical from a technical standpoint. Obviously, there would also need to be involvement from someone in Operations in order to clarify what items need to be tagged and to establish the workflows and business processes that will support the new system. It goes without saying, that buy-in from all of the stakeholders along with support from the organization, throughout the implementation and beyond, is key to making this kind of an infrastructure investment successful.

To learn more about how RFID could improve your operation watch our recent on-demand webinar: How RFID is changing Asset Tracking. In this webinar, our CEO, Peter Collins and CTO, Darryl Lane, explore the benefits and challenges of a modern RFID implementation. Watch now and learn the answers to important questions that you need to know for your organization before you consider implementing RFID technology.