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A perceived lack of standards and an unrealistic understanding of cost implications are still hindering the adoption of RFID technology among many UK organisations, according to a panel of experts at the Softworld Supply Chain event earlier this month.

According to the panel, press hype and high profile RFID implementation projects have resulted in businesses dismissing the technology due to these preconceptions, even though there could be a legitimate business case. Debating the topic of RFID compliance, the panel comprised: Nigel Montgomery (director of European research for AMR Research), Eelco de Jong (global RFID domain lead for LogicaCMG) and David Lyon (EPC global line of business manager for GS1UK).

The panel observed that RFID prices are reducing, and that 2005 is likely to be a good year to start pilot projects due to the major standards already developed - such as EPCglobal. In addition, the panel agreed that the benefits of RFID are not purely limited to the retail sector as many organisations believe, and that other industry sectors can benefit greatly from this technology.

It was also highlighted that many UK organisations have dismissed the technology without proper investigation, and that ROI is not simply about cost reduction but also what the technology can enable you to do that you couldn't do otherwise.

The panel also agreed that, while the case for RFID is very strong, the technology may not suit all organisations at this time. In fact, in many cases, companies have yet to make good use of bar coding and other auto-ID technologies, so RFID may seem a step too far for them.

As a result, the panel encourages companies not to look at RFID in isolation but in addition to a range of other technologies such as GPS and voice technologies, all of which will have an impact on supply chain management within the next decade.

Some of these technologies, along with RFID, were showcased at Softworld Supply Chain, and a number of vendors used the show to launch new products and services. The conference and exhibition, now in its thirteenth year, also provides a free and independent educational programme. The next event is to take place on 8-9 March 2006 at the NEC, Birmingham, UK.

For additional information:
·  Visit Softworld at http://www.softworld.co.uk
·  Visit VNU Exhibitions at http://www.vnuexhibitions.co.uk

Source: VNU Exhibitions