Operations Terms and Definitions

Radio-frequency identification (RFID) uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects. An RFID system consists of a tiny radio transponder, a radio receiver and transmitter.

2D symbology is a two-dimensional matrix that has a pattern of elements that carries information in two directions: vertically and horizontally. Matrix symbols can encode hundreds of times as much data as linear barcodes.

A warehouse management system (WMS) is a software solution that helps manage the operations of a warehouse or distribution center. They ensure that goods and materials move through warehouses in the most efficient and cost-effective way.  A warehouse management system handles many functions that enable these movements, including inventory management, order picking, replenishment, packing, put-away, shipping and wave planning.

A warehouse control system (WCS) is a type of software that directs the real-time activities within warehouses and distribution centers. It integrates with the WMS (warehouse management system) in order to keep everything running smoothly and maximize the efficiency of the material handling subsystems.

A building information modeling (BIM) system is an extensive set of drawings, control systems, etc. that in total provide information about a building including the systems & equipment therein as well as mechanicals, architectural drawings, HVAC, MHE, bills of materials, control systems, dashboard status, etc

Golden weight refers to a weight that the system learns is a case of “N” items of product. Once this golden weight is known by the system, one item can be scanned, the entire case can be placed into the tote, and the system will recognize this as a full case with correct item count.

A brand of ‘smart glasses’ consisting of an optical head-mounted display designed in the shape of a pair of glasses. It was developed by X (previously Google X) with the mission of producing a ubiquitous computer.

In supermarket retail, a hi-lo operator is a store that offers a variety of prices. Sometimes an item is priced high. Sometimes the item is on sale and priced low.

A Greenfield project refers to new building construction on a new site, and lack constraints imposed by prior work on the site. They typically entail development on a completely vacant site whereby architects can start from scratch. In contrast, a Brownfield project is one that carries contraints imposed by prior work on the site.

Decentralized fulfillment utilizes multiple warehouses to store goods closer to the end buyers. Merchants can reach customers in more locations in less time when products are located in warehouses closer to them. It also mitigates the risk of holding all inventory in one place. Decentralization also provides companies with the means to offer a more relevant local variety of goods to customers.