WIP Tracking - Work-in-Process (Work-in-Progress)

WIP Tracking (Work in Progress) Solutions

WIP Tracking or Work-in-process, also known as Work-in-Progress solutions provide vital manufacturing data in real-time. This gives management visibility into the manufacturing process while providing valuable data production workers.

WIP Tracking Uses Production Data to Improve Operations

These solutions provide an ROI by collecting valuable data that improves productivity by eliminating manual paperwork, automating traceability, and allowing for specifically targeted recalls when necessary. In addition, cycle times and other manufacturing data can be recorded allowing engineers to spot bottlenecks and increase production output.

When manufactures can instantly see what products are entering which phase of production and other pertain details they can begin to make strategic decisions to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Different companies desire to monitor different types of production data. BCI has worked with companies to track and record various types of production data. The list below shows the most common information that is tracked.

Employee Tasks
Production Stations
Employee IDs
Date and Time

Work Orders
Product Numbers
Lot Numbers
Quantity Numbers

Tools and Materials
Production Inventory
Wastage
Size and Dimensions

Production Time
Quality Control Data
Comments and Notes
Production Codes

WIP Tracking with Bar Codes and or RFID Technology

WIP tracking can be accomplished with either bar code or radio frequency identification (RIFD) technology. Process and discrete manufacturers use a variety of labels and RFID tags to route materials through automated production processes, monitor choke-points, provide real-time updates to manufacturing management systems, communicate configuration instructions and much more.

Bar codes provide highly reliable identification and tracking.
RFID is also reliable and provides enhanced efficiency, allows for multiple reads at one time, and works in extreme environments such as high heat, vibration, moisture and chemical exposure.
Reduce human errors and improve accuracy through enhanced production monitoring.
Improve efficiency and productivity by eliminating manual paperwork and automating employee processes.
Identify and record in real-time components, assemblies and other work-in-process.
ROI is attainable and measurable because lower labor requirements and errors will reduce costs.
RFID tags are rewritable and do more than just identify they can have pertinent information updated throughout the production process (i.e. configuration information, operator and inspector IDs, quality control test results, data from sensors, time stamps, lot numbers, and much more.)

WIP tracking solutions can involve bar code scanning, RFID technology or both. It is a matter of finding the most cost effective and efficient way to accomplish the goals of a given company. RFID technology is more expensive than bar code technology, but in some cases it can provide a quicker ROI. There have been cases in which BCI has recommended using bar codes over RFID and vice versa. The final decision is always up to the end user and we will always present options that are within the needs and budget of a client. Contact BCI today and together we can begin to plan a WIP tracking solution to meet your specific requirements and improve productivity and traceability.

Read the documents below for more information on Work-in-Process Tracking