Mar 02, 2003March 3, 2003 - Intellident, a leading auto-ID systems integrator in the UK, has launched a new consulting service aimed at companies looking to understand the implications of developments in radio frequency identification or who are interested in migrating from bar codes to RFID.
"There is a great deal of interest in RFID technologies today, and many companies are looking for someone who can hold their hands and talk them through the current options," says Adrian Segens, Intellident's business development manager.
Intellident has done many RFID installations, including high-profile projects like the installation at Marks & Spencer. Intellident helped the retailer tag more than 3 million reusable containers in its chilled produce operation.
Segens says Intellident is "hardware and frequency agnostic." As a system integrator, it deploys the best equipment for the application and the customer's particular needs. Thus, he says, it's in a position to provide objective advice as well.
The services offered will include helping companies understand the benefits, financial implications and application considerations of RFID, defining performance criteria for various application environments, evaluating and sourcing "best of breed" technology and evaluating the return on investment.
The new service will be run by David Robson, who is the managing principal of DQM International, a UK consulting firm. Robson's RFID experience goes all the way back to 1980, when helped developed the Cotag for use in the coal mining industry. He says the service will focus on defence, health care and supply chain and will be available worldwide.
One issue for many companies looking to migrate from conventional auto-ID technologies to RFID is dealing with the physics of radio frequency, according to Robson. "None of the other systems have an RF angle, he says. "It's hard to grasp, so companies are feeling their way. We can shorten the steep learning curve for them."
Companies do not have to have specific projects in mind. They can simply pay a monthly retainer to receive reports and understand developments in the technology and in the market place. "We think there's a huge demand for the service," Robson says. "If you are just starting to learn about RFID, it can be overwhelming. We can help you get through the morass."
