RFID TECHNOLOGY AND ITS ROLE WITHIN THE TRANSPORT INDUSTRY
RFID and NFC technology is making a large impact in the world and is the key for efficient and streamlined processes. The technology is progressing rapidly and making changes globally in different industries and sectors. Within Africa, RFID/NFC is growing and has already proven to be useful in many industries, in particular the transport sector. Within this sector, RFID technology is making a great impact due to its versatile range of applications. The Transport industry is dependent on fast & efficient processes to get large numbers of people to their destinations safely. RFID technology within this sector has the built-in benefit of aiding the rapid achievement of Government and private sector goals, on a continent poised for growth and development like no other at this time.
WHAT IS RFID?
Radio-Frequency Identification refers to a technology that allows for data to be transmitted at high speeds, accurately and securely. This technology is user-friendly as it does not need a line of site and can be used in a variety of settings and industries.
RFID AND THE AFRICAN CONTINENT
There are a variety of factors that influence the demand for RFID technology in Africa:
• There is an urgent need to reduce theft and fraud
• Many industries need to increase efficiency and productivity
• RFID technology can efficiently track and trace both products and people
• The continent now has the opportunity to leap-frog the rest of the world in making use of this technology to benefit core operations and ultimately bring about faster growth and development.
RFID AND THE TRANSPORT INDUSTRY
This type of technology allows for labour-intensive tasks to become automated, therefore saving on labour costs and ensuring that tasks are more streamlined. RFID technology allows for users to track the status of tasks and where certain assets or people are at any given moment. The benefits surrounding this technology are immense and the following examples will outline the different uses within the transport industry specifically:
1. RFID TAGS ON VEHICLES
The technology allows business or customers to track vehicles when they arrive or leave depots or locations at any given time as well as for identification purposes when vehicles arrive on site. The use of RFID in this manner, allows for faster, more efficient and streamlined identification and logistics processes.
2. SHIPPING CONTAINER TRACKING
The use of RFID technology in tracking shipping containers may be one of the most common uses. This allows for containers to be scanned at the port and then again at its arrival destination. Live feeds for the tracking of containers, for example, all along its journey is possible and offers operators real-time management information.
3.HIRING EQUIPMENT
Companies that offer equipment for hire to customers will benefit from the use of RFID. These businesses can equip their assets with RFID tags which can aid in reducing the possibility of loss or theft. By tagging the equipment, the company will be able to keep tabs of their assets and easily track and locate their location at any given time.
The above advantages of RFID technology show how the African continent can benefit in a myriad ways. The transport industry in particular, is poised to lead the way.