Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The design and implementation of an automated inventory control system for a manufacturing organization is crucial for enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs. This research project focuses on developing a system that utilizes advanced technologies such as RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) and IoT (Internet of Things) to track inventory in real-time. The system aims to automate various inventory control processes including tracking stock levels, monitoring inventory movements, and generating alerts for low stock or expiring items. The proposed system will integrate with the organization's existing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to ensure seamless data flow and accurate inventory information. By leveraging RFID tags and sensors, the system will enable automatic identification and monitoring of inventory items throughout the manufacturing facility. This real-time visibility into inventory levels will help in optimizing stock levels, reducing stockouts, and minimizing excess inventory holding costs. Furthermore, the automated inventory control system will include features such as automated reorder point calculations, dynamic safety stock adjustments based on demand fluctuations, and predictive analytics for demand forecasting. These capabilities will enable the organization to make data-driven decisions regarding inventory management and procurement, leading to improved supply chain efficiency and cost savings. The implementation of the system will involve the installation of RFID readers, sensors, and IoT devices across the manufacturing facility to capture inventory data continuously. Data collected from these devices will be transmitted to a centralized database where it will be processed and analyzed in real-time. The system will provide a user-friendly interface for inventory managers to monitor stock levels, track inventory movements, and generate reports for inventory analysis. Overall, the design and implementation of an automated inventory control system for a manufacturing organization will revolutionize the way inventory management is carried out. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, the system will enable the organization to achieve greater accuracy, efficiency, and visibility in managing its inventory. This research project aims to provide a comprehensive framework for developing and deploying an automated inventory control system that can drive operational excellence and competitive advantage for manufacturing organizations.

Thesis Overview

1.0 INTRODUCTION

An inventory control system contains a list of orders to be filled and then prompts workers to pick the necessary items, and provides them with packaging and shipping information. Inventory control may be used to automate sales order fulfilment process and also manage in and outward material of hardware. Automation is the replacement of human workers by technology. For optimal sales and inventory management process, robust functionality is needed for managing logistics facilities. Warehouse management functions for inventory control cover internal warehouse movements and storage and its support helps in the recording and tracking of materials on basis of both quantity and value.This application takes care of all supply orders reducing cost for warehousing, transportation while improving customer service. It significantly improves inventory turns, optimizes flow of goods. It also improves cash flow, visibility and decision making providing efficient execution of tasks using this fast and reliable computerised method2

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The Nigerian Breweries PLC was established in the year 1946. It aims at providing satisfaction and nourishment to the Nigerian population through the distribution of drinks like beer, coca-cola, fanta, sprite etc. It is second to none and for this reason, the demand is high and the company responds to the increasing demand by stabilizing supply to strike a balance. Justifiably, the company has the problem of keeping adequate record of goods transfer and since it is done manually, associated problems of insecurity, high cost of operation and delay in supply arise. Data processing in Nigerian Breweries PLC is presently carried out using people, pens, and paper to control stock and inventory. The design and development of an automated inventory control system for the Nigerian Breweries PLC will no doubt bring immeasurable relief from the problems associated with the manual system.31.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The Nigerian Breweries PLC is to an extent manually operated and reveals a number of problems.ï¶ The recording of sales and cash received are done manually on a book that appears rough. Thus, the books are exposed to physical damage, information can be lost and dust particles are accumulated.ï¶ The long list of supply orders waiting to be attended to on daily basis.ï¶ The control system is time consuming, less accurate and less efficient, and the environment is not user friendly.ï¶ Inaccuracies often ensue from human error.The manual system is quite tedious and can be reduced or eliminated with the introduction of the proposed system.