A Simulation Tool For Radio Frequency Identification Construction Supply Chains

Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) technology is being used more and more in the construction industry. RFID tags and peripheral equipment are becoming cheaper and more suitable for application in the supply chain. However, it is difficult for contractors to estimate the costs and benefits of using RFID technology in their production processes. Based on a case study and simulations, the aim of this study is to develop a simulation tool for contractors that would help them to decide how to use RFID technology in specific supply chains. In the case that was studied, the simulation tool provided insight into what errors in the supply chain resulted in unnecessary processes but gave hardly any idea of the cost reduction of the production process by using RFID technology.