Supply chain expert Spectech France, part of the STAG Aerospace Group, has enhanced its line-side RFID tag / Kanban inventory control system. First launched in 2010 under the brand name 'TagBin', the system was designed to improve stock forecasting and parts management in the aerospace industry.

The enhanced RFID tagging / Kanban system, now called 'TagBin Live' and incorporating a live data feed, is part of the company's extensive portfolio of supply chain tools and techniques, which are configured to meet customer inventory management needs. These include parts control using barcodes, RF tagging or Kanban, inventory level and storage system evaluation, supplier negotiation and forecasting tools. In addition, comprehensive operator training and post-install system reviews ensure successful implementation of supply chain projects.

Spectech reports that the addition of the live data feed from the RFID technology replaces the need to have supplier personnel on customer sites and enables operation of a true Kanban system tracked in real-time. Combined with the company's advanced forecasting tool, which was developed in-house, and 'Kanban Live' software managing data, Spectech can demonstrate real-time production tracking and maximise the use of component storage. In addition, all the conventional and costly manual steps normally associated with Kanban systems run via purchasing departments are removed. Commenting on the expansion of the company's supply chain portfolio, Chris Osborne, Directeur des Opérations Spectech France, said:

“The STAG Group service philosophy uses a 'consultancy project team' approach, which concentrates on developing close relationships linking suppliers and customers worldwide. This partnership approach results in bespoke supply chain solutions which include a blend of interlinked inventory control techniques.”

The addition of real-time information from RFID tags on trackside component bins, and the enhancement of Kanban software, provides demand forecasting for 100,000 plus lines and the ability to generate accurate purchasing schedules on a daily / weekly basis.