In an ideal world, supply chain operations would be seamless. Accurate data would flow continuously in and out of Oracle and always be up to date.
Unfortunately, the reality is very different. Complicated and always fluctuating, organizations must do everything they can to mitigate uncertainty.
For businesses using Oracle ERP systems like Oracle Fusion Cloud SCM, E-Business Suite, and JD Edwards, many are finding success with mobile solutions that include automation and barcoding. However, most of these solutions are limited by connectivity to Wi-Fi or cellular networks.
That’s where offline mobile technologies can fill the gap, ensuring seamless continuity of operations, regardless of connection status.
When Mobile Devices Can’t Access the Network
In the most common disconnected scenario, a mobile device lacks adequate network signal. Users become frustrated that they have no network connectivity when entering certain areas, such as freezers, far-away storerooms, and locations just outside of Wi-Fi range.
Conducting cycle counts or attempting to interact with Oracle via the mobile device is impossible. For it to work, the device must store the data locally to upload later—which not all enterprise devices can. Even fewer mobile solutions offer this capability.
To solve this problem, look to offline mobility solutions that enable users to continue working while the device is offline. This way, data can be stored locally until connectivity is restored, at which point the data is transmitted to the ERP system.
Mobile Operations in the Field
Similarly, employees operating in the field frequently run into connectivity issues. Delivery drivers and field technicians need access to critical order and routing information. Since their mobile devices are outside the company’s main network, they must rely on cellular signal.
In this scenario, they can’t access important ERP information, nor can they update it with changes. Updates must be entered manually at the end of each workday, creating the opportunity for errors.
Instead, Oracle users can implement a field mobility solution that enables timely data communication between mobile devices in the field and the ERP system.
Disconnection from the ERP
As more ERP users migrate to Oracle Fusion Cloud, network connectivity becomes even more crucial to continuity of operations. When connection to the ERP goes down, data stops flowing, meaning operations grind to a halt. The cost of downtime can be immense.
But this doesn’t have to be the case.
New solutions are emerging to overcome this hurdle. A continuous availability solution can enable operations to continue seamlessly while the ERP system is unavailable for any reason, from being down for maintenance to loss of internet connectivity.
Off-Network Mobility for Yard Management
For supply chain operations that take place in the yard, trying to stay connected to the network is next to impossible. Wi-Fi ranges are limited, especially outdoors. In remote areas, cellular connectivity can be spotty or nonexistent.
Even if the rest of the operation is fully connected and automated, many companies must resort to old-fashioned paper processes and data entry for yard management.
Again, an offline or off-network technology solution can bridge the gap. Technologies like geolocation yard management allow workers in the yard to maintain connectivity to Oracle while also receiving guided instructions for storage, picking, and loading.
Solve the Offline Data Gap with Mobile Solutions
As the modern supply chain evolves, technology’s role in creating predictable resilience cannot be overstated. The key to ensuring operational continuity is to solve for off-network scenarios with smart mobile solutions for Oracle ERPs. By eliminating dead zones and the unpredictable with innovative offline solutions like those provided by RFgen Software, businesses can elevate efficiency, visibility, and profitability while also reducing risk.
About the Author
Bill Arban is Regional Sales Manager for RFgen Software. To learn more about Oracle-certified mobile data collection solutions for offline operations, contact the experts at RFgen Software.