Item-level RFID in real life

Recent research shows that you get the greatest benefit from your radio frequency identification (RFID) investment if you focus on item-level tagging. But, as early adopters have learned, figuring out how to implement RFID at the item level can be tricky.

To provide some insights into how to accomplish this, CSCMP teamed up with the University of Arkansas, Voluntary Interindustry Commerce Solutions (VICS), and the standards organization GS1 to create an annual RFID Forum. This event is designed for retailers, suppliers, and anyone else exploring item-level RFID. Each year, representatives from major retailers share details and what they've learned about their own RFID initiatives. Additionally, the event includes tours of the university's RFID lab and hands-on demonstrations of the latest technology.

Program: RFID Forum
Sponsor: CSCMP, University of Arkansas, VICS, and GS1
Location: Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA
Dates: October 12-13, 2010
Info: cscmp.org/events/rfid

How to identify a problem—and get the okay to fix it

Learn how to conduct an assessment of your company's core supply chain processes at CSCMP's "Performance Improvement Workshop." Participants will assess their processes against current minimum standards and best practices as a way to identify potential areas for improvement. They will then learn how to prioritize improvement efforts, how to present initiatives to senior management to gain approval, and how to build a business case for change. Instructors will use the CSCMP Process Standards booklet as the foundation for the course.

Program: Performance Improvement Workshop
Sponsor: CSCMP
Location: Lombard (Chicago), Illinois, USA
Dates: November 11-12, 2010
Info: cscmp.org/events/performance

Transportation strategies for a changed world

The economic downturn has been especially hard on the freight transportation sector. The market saw steep declines in freight volumes and investment in equipment as well as bankruptcies, consolidations, and downsizing. In the wake of this upheaval, transport buyers and sellers would be wise to re-evaluate and revise their current strategies. "Freight Transportation: Strategies for a Changing Landscape" from Northwestern University's Transportation Center will help guide participants through this re-evaluation process. Topics include the size, scope, and complexity of the global freight marketplace; changes in carrier pricing; the benefits of using analytics in freight transportation; and the current challenges in both the domestic and international freight markets. This program is co-sponsored by CSCMP, and tuition discounts are available to members.

Program: Freight Transportation: Strategies for a Changing Landscape
Sponsor: Northwestern University
Location: Evanston, Illinois, USA
Dates: October 12-14, 2010
Info: www.transportation.northwestern.edu/exec/FT10/index.html