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When RFID got its first big commercial push - thanks to the Wal-Mart and Department of Defense supplier compliance mandates - many consulting firms were called in, not only to help companies understand what the technology is and how it works but also to determine what the business case might be for its use.
Companies implementing RFID are now using large consulting firms in two new ways, according to ABI Research. These consulting firms are acting as integrators and project managers as well, and they are also helping many of their clients to develop long-term plans. ABI Research suggests that the next evolutionary phase in the consulting process is beginning in earnest: the staffing and organisation of consulting groups that are set up to specifically target vertical markets. 116.30.147.133 This article is copyright 2004 UsingRFID.com.
Good strategy
"This strategy makes perfect sense because RFID isn''t a ''one size fits all'' solution: different industries and applications have very different needs," said Erik Michielsen, director of RFID and ubiquitous technologies for ABI Research. "Consultants stand to benefit greatly, so it''s no surprise that many of them are adding RFID-trained staff at the rate of 25% per quarter."
Players'' games
According to Michielsen, Accenture is particularly aiming at the pharmaceutical industry. For Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, transportation is a key strength. IBM began with defence applications and is now establishing groups across a number of industries, while defence specialists such as Northrup-Grumman are branching out into the consumer realm.
"One of the key benefits of this integration is that, by focusing on verticals, you enable knowledge-sharing with new projects," concluded Michielsen.
ABI Research''s report, entitled ''RFID Integration Services Markets'', includes models for RFID verticals and applications, and assesses compliance initiatives and spending for trial, compliance, and full-scale RFID implementations, including profiles of leading players in the field. The report can be obtained from the ABI Research web site.
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