EC544
Week 3 Case Study
• 1. Become familiar with RFID technology and its potential uses in Harley-Davidson’s supply chain using the information presented in this chapter and information you obtain through the Online Companion links, your favorite search engine, and your library. In about 400 words, evaluate the advantages and disadvantages for Harley-Davidson of replacing its bar codes and scanners technology with RFID. The advantages associated with using RFID technology for supply management are clearly the reason why Harley Davidson would even consider implementing its use. According to the text, RFIDs can be read much more quickly and with a higher degree of accuracy than bar codes. Bar codes must be visible to be scanned. RFID tags can be placed anywhere on or in most items and are readable even when covered with packing materials, dirt, or plastic bands. A bar-code scanner must be placed within a few inches of the bar code. Most RFID readers have a range of about six feet. This in conjunction with improved tracking and inventory procedures would attrach any business who would want to eventually lower coats associated with inventory tracking and supply on demand. One advantage is that RFID tags are very simple to install and RFID technology is better than bar codes as it cannot be easily replicated and therefore, it increases the security of the product. RFID technology is a communication device and with most communications device’s the technology consists of transmission components and receiving components. These are microchips that have all the necessary information on them. The information is comprehended with the help of an RFID card reader. RFID comes in the form of active and passive. The active RFID tags transfer the information directly to the reader without the use of an external battery or source, whereas, the passive tags require external power for functioning. This is what makes its use attract interest in