The RFID devices cost more than smart cards, but are re-usable and don't wear out as they don't have to be physically swiped. But unsurprisingly, when bundles of garments go through a washing stage, the RFID devices must be removed. "Our laboratory is developing a waterproof type that can withstand high temperatures, stone and chemical wash," said Ting.

The RFID devices are so successful that other applications are being found for them, including identifying the supplier and batch of fabrics used in production. In most garment companies are still using paper barcodes fixed to garments. "Paper barcodes have to be scanned in batches, they are easily damaged and do not provide real-time information," noted Ting.

Both the Business Intelligence initiative and the RFID technology are providing better management information at Crystal, said Ting "We plan to use the Balanced Scorecard management system to help Crystal's strategic focus," he said. "We have already standardized information between departments and systems and have made it available to our management through the Internet."

Hayco's ERP scheme

When Hayco Manufacturing adopted a new ERP system, its employees were one of the key drivers for implementation. Hayco is a manufacturer and global supplier of diverse modern houseware, ranging from electric toothbrushes to floor cleaners and cleaning products, distributing about 120 million items annually. The Australian company has branches in mainland China, Taiwan and Hong Kong.