OVERVIEW

We have been portraying the conflict surrounding acceptance or rejection of radio frequency identification in supply chains, taking care to point out arguments from both the advocacy and cynical camps. When a clearer picture of what is involved is mastered, and after a reasonable period of gestation, a company must make a decision on which course to accept and then build a definition of its RFID business posture into its strategic plan. We see a shortening of the time in which the decision can be forestalled, although some cynics are suggesting it is over a decade long. Forward and reverse are the possible directions, but a choice must be made and a strategy developed.

To aid the decision makers, we have promoted RFID as a tool in supply chain visibility and in a wireless technology business environment. With so many constituents seeking information in a contemporary supply chain, increased visibility in a real-time format has become essential. With communication across such an elaborate network also moving inexorably toward a wireless system, we again see a position for RFID to enhance the collaborative possibilities.

From both the positive and negative aspects, we will continue to consider how a firm involved in a supply chain and subsequently as part of an extended enterprise will find important applications for RFID, recognizing that some organizations will wait passively on the sidelines as the scenario plays out. Since we view the development as an inevitable trend, however, it is important that we position acceptance...