Evaluating implementation areas of Real-Time Location System (RTLS) in the production at Scania CV AB Oskarshamn

Abstract: Background Scania’s production unit in Oskarshamn manufactures and supplies truck cabs to the European market. In order to remain competitive, it is necessary for the company to re-evaluate its competencies and technologies. Thus, it is of great interest for Scania to investigate what value newly acquired technology can provide to the company and its operations. Problem description As a part of Scania’s track and trace strategy, the company is currently acquiring and evaluating the possibility of implementing RTLS in their operations. Scania wants to investigate how the technology can contribute to a strategic advantage. Therefore, Scania is curious on where and how to implement RTLS in order to improve e.g., efficiency. Purpose The purpose is to evaluate and identify appropriate areas of RTLS implementations with the aid of a conceptual framework, designed after existing literature and discussed according to Scania’s track and trace operations. Research questions 1. What advantages, challenges, risks and requirements do RTLS entail? 2. How can Scania use the RTLS technology and for which applications? Methodology The abductive approach is used. For RQ1, a structured literature review is conducted. For RQ2, a case study is conducted in order to develop a conceptual framework which is then tested and validated in Scania’s settings. Results The conceptual framework suggests, on a general level, when RTLS is suitable to implement and what to consider. A checklist is also developed to support Scania when seeking to apply the technology. Conclusions It is clear to say that the RTLS kit for this thesis does not meet the requirements set by Scania. This since what the RTLS is capable of is not in line with the purposes of using the technology. However, RTLS could still be used when testing in areas where the purposes are more fit to the capabilities, i.e., in smaller areas and/or where the degree of disturbance is lower.