Objective:
Creating a tracking system using near-field communication (NFC) technology for items sold at stores will allow customers to see what is available in stock as well as where in the store the items are. Using NFC tags also allows store workers to know what items need to be restocked, and furthermore, what sells the most. A more efficient store will waste less money on products they do not need and gain more money on products that sell more. It will also provide a digital customer service, helping customers find products, saving them time and increasing customer satisfaction.
Background:
NFC tracking using tags on products will help both the consumers and the sellers at stores and warehouses.
Methodology:
Products would be tagged with NFC chips and placed on shelves that would contain a NFC Reader. When products are placed or taken away from the shelf, their information would be sent to a Raspberry Pi to collect the data. The Raspberry Pi would then connect to the network to send updates on a digital app used for customers and a database used for the store workers. NFC tags can be taken off and reused once the products are bought.
Expected Results:
This project would help businesses with managing and maintaining large inventories. Stores would be able to estimate trends from the information received from NFC tags that they can utilize to optimize sales and replenish goods. Warehouses would integrate this product to their warehouse management system; It can help identify misplaced items and help automate certain procedures.
Costs:
Raspberry Pi - ~$70
NFC Reader (small) - $10
NFC Reader (large) - ~$105
NFC Tag (50 count) - $16