The Future of RFID in Retailing: PodCast Debate Within The Same Technology Consulting Firm

Stamford, CT (PRWEB via PRWeb) October 12, 2006 -- Bob Amster and Mark Lilien are partners in the same technology consulting firm. Yet they strongly disagree about the future and usefulness of RFID (radio frequency identification.) You can hear the PodCast of their debate, sponsored by NARMS (The National Association of Retail Marketing Services), on the future of RFID in retailing.

Bob Amster and Mark Lilien debate the speed with which RFID is catching on and the key issues facing the expansion of RFID. They disagree about its current and future uses in the supply chain, including inventory management, product safety, loss prevention, and counterfeit detection. In addition, they debate the benefits and challenges of using RFID versus bar codes and why some retailers aren't moving towards RFID.

Even though RFID has been highly touted again and again, it seems stuck in pilot mode. No major retailer has rolled it out 100%. A complete rollout is a total commitment. Listen to Bob and Mark's PodCast to hear why a total commitment past piloting hasn't been made. Is it the cost? The reliability of the technology? Its unique nature? Are the advantages overlooked or undervalued? Will it really stop brand name merchandise counterfeiting? Millions have been spent developing and testing radio frequency identification. How come the most common use seems be at automated toll stations, not retail supply chains? Is RFID an example of a technology still seeking its usefulness? What's the penalty of hanging back to see if someone else can make it pay off, first?

The discussion is at http://www.narms.com/media.html

The URL for Retail Technology Group is http://www.RetailTechnologyGroup.com

For more information, contact Mark Lilien, telephone 917-355-0359.