Google Latitude For Supply Chain Track and Trace?

The essential elements of supply chain track and trace are location, time and the associated business process. A scanner and/or RFID is/are usually used to associate the business process with each tracking activity.

High cost processes increases lead time can be identified for improvements this way.

At a supply chain level, sometimes we do not need activities to be recorded at a fine granular level. In this case, Google Latitude may allow track and tracking to be done quite easily. Just set a smartphone or device with Google Latitude app to record location actively, then sent it together with your shipment. Easier still if it is a truck delivery. You just have to associate its delivery contents with the smartphone activated with Google Latitude that is with the driver. Allow customers/consignee to view gps location on Google Latitude and you got it!

With some simple programming, one can also apply geo-fencing capabilities to alert customer/consignee that packaging is reaching or alert you if the truck deviates from its route. You can also track your supply chain performance this way too.

By relating to food and pharma traceability standards, google latitude can be used to enhance drug security and food safety too.