The role of radio frequency identification (RFID) technologies in improving garment manufacturing operations

A growing number of organisations are using radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to improve their manufacturing processes. A case study approach is used to explore the development of an RFID-based manufacturing process management system in a garment factory in China. The results indicate that both technology push and need pull factors influence the garment factory's intention to adopt RFID technology. We identify eight factors for the successful implementation of an RFID-based manufacturing process management system, namely, vendor selection, organisational motivation, cost/benefit evaluation, top management support, user involvement, the extent of progress supervision, staff competence and training, and policy, structure and operating process compatibility. This in-depth case study details the organisation's experience and identifies the challenges it faces and important issues in the development and implementation of the system. Implications for academics and practitioners are discussed.