WIP refers to inventory that has entered the manufacturing process but is not yet a finished product. Juggling all the moving pieces can pose challenges, such as maintaining the right balance of inventory, identifying sources of inventory loss or damage, and forecasting product completion. The right WIP tracking system can help.
Oftentimes large manufacturers need to locate items for partially completed tasks or goods. 99% of a vehicle or rail car could be sitting at the end of the production line and yet have one missing part holding it back. RTLS tags can help employees locate items to finish production quickly and efficiently.
AirFinder OnSite is used as a WIP tracking system by attaching a puck tag to each set of parts as they make their way through the manufacturing plant. Splitting a facility into several zones allows plant managers to request detailed reports. These reports range from location to length of time in each zone. This data not only helps locate missing parts but also identifies bottlenecks in the manufacturing WIP system.
Manufacturers have used various tracking methods for WIP. These tools range from spreadsheets and dedicated software, to barcodes, RFID, and RTLS. The purpose of these tools is to deliver the following benefits.
Cutting down time spent on reporting
Identifying bottlenecks and choke points in WIP systems.
Gathering fresh data on production cycles and schedules
Preventing unplanned downtime
Many industries can benefit from WIP tracking. Here’s how the AirFinder OnSite RTLS solution can go to work for you!
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