RMA tracking software

RMA stands for Return Material Authorization. RMAs flow through the returns process and can be tracked throughout the process. Is blockchain the technology for RMA Software to track returns?

Tracking RMAs

Why should RMAs be tracked? There are 3 main processes in which RMAs can be tracked:

1. return authorization
2. process execution
3. product disposition

Return Authorization

There are several reasons to initiate a return into the reverse supply chain. These reasons can roughly be divided into 2 types:

1. Push: the end-user decides to initiate a return. This happens in e-commerce where consumers return undesired products and in after-sales where users return defective products;
2. Pull: the company decides to initiate a return. This happens in after-sales where companies pull returns for recall and in a circular economy where companies pull end-of-life products that they like to get back.

Process execution

Authorized returns flow through several processes in which tracking can be important:

1. Logistics: products are in-transit when being transported;
2. Operations: products are in the receiving and grading process in a returns center.

Disposition

Disposition: products are in a disposition process when being turned into new value:

1. Repair
2. Refurbishment
3. Remanufacturing
4. Recycling

Tracking delivers value

Tracking of returns with RMA Software can deliver value in different ways. First, it can track customers and products. Second, it can track transactions (RMAs) that combine customers and products. Ask yourself what RMA tracking can offer for your business? Finally, ask yourself what technology is needed to do so?