علوم و فنون مدیریت اطلاعات (Dec 2022)
Feasibility of Applying Radio Frequency Identification System (RFID) Using the Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) in the Public Libraries of Kerman
Abstract
Objectives: RFID is an acronym for “radio-frequency identification” and refers to a technology whereby digital data encoded in RFID tags or smart labels are captured by a reader via radio waves. Radio Frequency Identification(RFID) is one of the important technical tools for the detection of information resources in the library. This system provides fast and convenient access to resources, prevents theft, accelerates library services, and increases the efficiency of library activities. The aim of this research is to study the feasibility of using RFID in the libraries of Kerman.Methods: The research is survey-descriptive. Its statistical population consists of all managers and employees of 8 public libraries in Kerman. The tool of data collection is a researcher-made questionnaire, which was used to determine its validity, using the face validity method, and the mathematical expectation was 0.73, which is an acceptable value to confirm the validity of the questionnaire. In order to calculate its reliability, Cronbach's alpha was used which is 0.814, indicating the acceptable reliability of the questionnaire. Data analysis was done with inferential statistics tests, a prioritization index based on the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), and SPSS version 20 software. TOPSIS is a multi-criteria decision analysis method that compares a set of alternatives based on a predetermined criterion.Results: The findings indicate that the ability to implement RFID in terms of infrastructure and technological tools in the public libraries of Kerman city is moderate. In terms of existing software, these libraries have the ability to implement RFID. Also, the human resources working in the public libraries of Kerman are moderately prepared for the implementation of RFID. In addition, at present, the technological infrastructure for the implementation of RFID does not seem to be sufficient. It is worthwhile that the selection of the software should be done carefully and studied sufficiently. It is necessary to use RFID in the public libraries of Kerman.Conclusions: The results show that the limitation in the implementation of RFID in the public libraries of Kerman city is mostly related to the expert manpower, budget, and technical issues. According to managers and librarians, it is necessary to carry out this process and take advantage of its facilities. The implementation of educational programs, mid-term and long-term planning, management interaction with library experts for better implementation, and using the capabilities of RFID in providing library services, such as lending, organizing, retrieving, and managing the collection, are among the suggestions of this research.
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