New inventory management system to be implemented in FY22

As part of an ongoing effort to safeguard University assets as well as continue to meet A-81 Federal Uniform Guidance, a new inventory management system will be implemented in FY22, utilizing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. RFID technology utilizes radio waves to send and receive data between asset tags and handheld transponders. 

Yale has partnered with Radiant RFID and plans to implement their system over the next several months. Radiant is an industry leader in the RFID field and currently works with a variety of other higher education institution involved with research in laboratory settings. Workday Business Assets will remain the system of record that will integrate with Radiant RFID. This system will allow for overall improved inventory management by reducing human error, increasing efficiency through automating processes, and ensuring proper management of assets. As part of system implementation, the university will retag all active moveable equipment assets with an updated RFID asset tag. Please review your cost centers active MEI to confirm asset information is accurate in Workday—including current location, asset description, serial numbers, etc. Accurate Workday asset records will significantly improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the system implementation. 

Next steps:

• Be on the lookout for additional communications regarding Business Assets (MEI) and RFID.
• Review the role of ‘Business Asset Tracking Specialist’ to confirm it is updated to an active cost center employee responsible with MEI.
• Cost centers will be contacted individually to determine a timeframe for retagging the assets assigned to their cost centers.