Is the RFID technology ready to integrate supplychain activities?

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is not a new technology andhas been introduced for military applications for a long time. Nevertheless, ithas been recognised as a device that may soon change the mode of operationsthroughout the supply chain. There is no question that the technology willreduce labour and improve accuracy in inventory management by improvinginventory visibility. However, a review of recent research and the developmentof RFID technology in supply chain related applications indicated thatdeployment of the technology are restricted to the mandates of some giantplayers in the industries. It is still unclear that how return on investment ofRFID-based projects could be justified. This paper aims to present a review ofthe technology and some recent development of RFID in relation to supplychain applications. Future research direction is then suggested.