RFID Reality Check

"RFID (Radio Frequency Identification Device) technology is at the peak of the hype cycle where there is over-enthusiasm and unrealistic projections about its benefits. Large retailers around the world, including Wal-Mart, have issued mandates to their suppliers to comply with their RFID initiatives within a specific time-frame. This mandate has sent the suppliers into fast forward mode to implement and comply with the mandate in a relatively short span of time. The majority of RFID implementations are focussed on mandatory compliance for outbound tagging and shipping processes by adopting a slap ‘n’ ship process. These implementations add significant cost to the supplier, while not adding much value to their own supply chain. This begs the question, how can these companies utilise RFID in other parts of the supply chain including manufacturing, distribution, transportation, and realise the true business benefits and value by implementing RFID technology." Source: expresscomputeronline.com