Shop-floor and operations data capture: the information collected by data collection terminals is typically consumed by which business subsystems?

Introduction / Context:
Barcode scanners, RFID readers, and time/quantity entry terminals capture operational data at the edge (receiving, work centers, warehouses). Understanding where this data flows is crucial for designing integrated ERP/MES solutions and accurate financial reporting.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Terminals capture quantities, times, locations, and identifiers.
• Multiple subsystems require this data for control and accounting.
• We must identify all typical consumers.

Concept / Approach:
Captured data feeds the inventory subsystem (on-hand balances, movements, lot/serial status), the production subsystem (work order progress, completions, scrap), and the cost subsystem (labor/machine time, material issues and variances). This closed loop maintains traceability, WIP accuracy, and standard-to-actual cost reconciliation.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
ERP reference processes (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft) show common integration points between shop-floor data capture and inventory control, production reporting, and costing modules.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Choosing any single subsystem would break reconciliation and reduce operational visibility; “None” contradicts standard practice.

Common Pitfalls:
Delaying postings (batch instead of real-time), leading to stock inaccuracies; failing to capture scrap and rework, which distorts costs and schedules.

Final Answer:
All of the above