RE: Failed RFID Implementations

I have participated in 2 "rescue" attempts for botched RFID projects.

Both were results of heightened expectations and misplaced approach:

In one case, the project was designed around pre-assumed frequency of 915 MHz and had a hard time reading plastic bags filled with fluids. We were able to complete the proto by introducing some stand-offs and performing exhaustive characterization.

In the other case, in retail, the plan was to track books in a book-store and the project fizzled because the business case was flaky, budget provided was "wishful" and the technical precision that the (non-technical) Exec Management expected to see was simply not feasible. We declared that right away and did not collect any revenue/profit on it.

I have heard informally of several projects getting cancelled or suspended or left dangling due to a variety of reasons - The main learning that we advise our clients is to start with the easier stuff first.

Bests,
Atul Salgaonkar
www.RFIDsolutions.net