Network management Toolkit

RFID: Overcoming the challenges

Tags:
RFID

Mark Palmer ZDNet.com

Published: 01 Mar 2004 16:55 GMT

Standardisation watch
Lastly, RFID standards, both industry and de facto, have yet to mature. Rapid changes can be expected, as exemplified by the recent transformation of the AutoID Center turning into a joint initiative of UCC and EAN. Early adopters of RFID must choose those elements of the RFID standards that have practical value to their deployments, rather than push the proverbial envelope. Rather than leap ahead of emerging standards, it would be best to plan for the certain changes in business process and data volume that any deployment will generate.

The hype around RFID is based on the belief that real-time, automated asset tracking is the only way companies can dramatically improve the efficiency of their operations. Changes in business process, technology, and standardization are, as Machiavelli once said, a "perilous and uncertain" business. But they have the most dramatic pay-offs, as well.

RFID promises a sea change in the way we buy, distribute, track, and secure the assets of the world. Proceeding ahead makes a lot of sense, but doing so with an eye on the challenges that may ensue will better ensure that the journey is successful.

Mark Palmer has 15 years of experience in the operational data management and middleware industry as a chief technology officer at YouthStream Media Networks and director of product strategy at IONA Technologies. He is currently RFID technical evangelist with ObjectStore, a division of Progress Software. Email at mpalmer@progress.com.