Manufacturer Upgrades RF Network To Overcome ERP Integration Challenge

McNairn Packaging, a specialty-packaging manufacturer and distributor, was experiencing a common integration issue in its Whitby, Ontario distribution center. A new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system had been installed in the distribution center, but the RF (radio frequency) system being used was not fully compatible with the ERP software. "Because of the technology challenges, the distribution center could not be organized in a way that made it easy for staff to find what they were looking for," said Larry Coe, manager of information systems at McNairn.

Coe acknowledged that an updated RF system was needed to realize the full value of the ERP software. While McNairn's second distribution center in Westfield, MA did not have an RF system, Coe wanted to achieve the benefits of a wireless system there as well. So, he turned to supply chain technology integrator Application Solutions Inc. (ASI) to make recommendations on a new RF system.

ASI recommended Psion Teklogix (Mississauga, Ontario) 7035 handheld terminals for bar code scanning, with 9150 wireless gateways providing the backbone for the RF network. The flexibility of the 9150 wireless gateway was a key selling feature for the Psion Teklogix system. The 9150 has two slots in it for multiple technologies. For example, the second slot provides an option for voice over Internet Protocol technology.

The Westfield installation was completed in a few days, and employees were trained on the new system within a week. "When we implemented RF, we were able to move to a bin-managed system. Now, instead of rushing to complete orders while a truck waits at the shipping dock, employees are working on the next day's orders," explained Coe.

The Whitby facility also realized noticeable benefits by updating its RF system. Full compatibility with the ERP system resulted in greater productivity and enabled the company to take on additional business with the same number of employees.