Optimizing Shop Floor Operations with RFgen Implementation 

To enhance warehouse operations as part of a strategic initiative, the client—a prominent cheese manufacturer with production facilities in Wisconsin and a portfolio featuring local and imported cheese varieties—embarked on an RFgen implementation project. This effort was designed to improve process efficiency, boost user productivity, and accommodate the demanding cold and wet conditions of the shop floor. 

Key Challenge

To support the operations of a newly established warehouse, the client decided to replace their existing DSI scanning solution with RFgen. The cold and wet conditions of the shop floor made the use of computers or laptops impractical, necessitating a robust scanning solution. The objective was to leverage the legacy DSI scripts as a foundation to configure standard JD Edwards (JDE) versions and RFgen scripts, ensuring a seamless and efficient transition. 

Project Scope

The initial implementation included developing RFgen scripts for key processes such as work order issues, work order completion, super backflush, inventory adjustment, cycle count entry, inventory transfer, PO receipt, and label reprint. Post-deployment, additional functionalities like pick confirm and item/location inquiries were incorporated. To meet specific requirements, two custom label formats were designed, and RFgen services were employed to enable seamless record writing to the client’s internal label printing table.

Approach

The project team adopted a systematic and collaborative approach: 

 Script Development:  

• Using flow charts, screenshots, and recorded demonstrations of existing DSI scripts provided by the client, the development team created RFgen scripts tailored to the client’s requirements.  

• While standard JDE versions were employed, custom logic was developed to handle dual units of measure, minimize user clicks, and meet specific operational needs.  

• Notable customizations included a super backflush version focused solely on reporting labor hours and optimized user interfaces for sales order picking. 

Collaborative Workflow:  

• Weekly update meetings with the client ensured clear communication, progress visibility, and timely resolution of any challenges. 

Testing and Deployment:  

• After unit testing by the development team, select business users conducted user acceptance testing (UAT).  

• Feedback and reported issues were documented, prioritized, and resolved promptly to ensure a smooth production rollout.

The Outcome

 The client successfully transitioned from DSI to RFgen without experiencing any operational downtime. The new system not only optimized key processes but also delivered an intuitive user experience, empowering shop floor employees to perform efficiently in challenging environments.