Used RFID Technology and Mobility to implement a first of its kind solution in the Indian Beer industry to monitor movement of draught beer kegs on the field using GSM connectivity.
RFID technology was chosen over barcode technology so that no scanning is needed. RFID technologies that support GSM were selected so that transaction could be uploaded to the server from the field. As a result, the system had to be designed with a simple and intuitive interface for it to be effectively used by people involved in the supply chain.
The system helped improve the turnaround time of kegs thereby increasing the availability of kegs for distribution which in turn increases overall sales. The system also helped in keeping track of the keg inventory on a real time basis at all locations and this visibility reduced the loss of kegs, while also improving the overall supply chain planning and execution.
Another important benefit was visibility of kegs lying with customers and also to note their ageing at any given point of time. Using this information, the distribution team is able to improve collection of empty kegs resulting in faster turnaround time and increase in the float available for distribution.
This project demonstrates how a new product line that has high market potential can be made successful by using cutting edge technology. Ramakrishnan, or ‘Ramki’ as he’s more popularly known as, has shown how it’s done like a true business technology leader.