time mode of operations. All information processing, including
applications, replies, and receipts, are conducted on a real-time
basis.
Third, HQ integrates RFID technology with information system
and supply chain operation. In this study, an RFID reader is installed
at the receiving and shipping dock to automatically capture
the identities and data of RFID tags attached to the cartons and pallets.
The reengineering operation process in CDC and LDC with pallet/
case level tagging is shown in Fig. 4. The pallets/cases are
identified through RFID reusable tags. Each receiving and shipping
dock is equipped by an RFID reader that acts as a portal. Electronic
Product Code (EPC) codes of pallets/cases can be read and the
information is transmitted to WMS through Ethernet network on
a real time basis. The data were manually collected by operators
using traditional barcode, while it is automatically collected by
the RFID system now. To compare the differences between ‘‘asis’’
and ‘‘to-be’’ processes, the significant improvement are described
in details as follows:
The adoption of RFID technologies prompts CDC and LDC to
change the way they conduct their activities by integrating
activities, automating, or automatically performing some operation
processes, such as changing from manual to automatic
scanning of boxes and pallets (e.g., 1.4 in the receiving process
and 5.2 in the shipping process), and cross-docking operation.