1. GETTING STARTED
1.1. RFID/ EPC EssentialsThe concept of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and Electronic Product Codes (EPC) is fairly simple. RFID has been around for more than sixty (60) years when it was first introduced during WW II by the allied forces who needed to identify "friend or foe" aircraft by sending Radio Frequency "squawks." Now, we use Radio Frequency every day, on toll roads, using speed passes at the gas pumps and access passes in secure areas at work and in countless other ways. EPC, on the other hand, is only six (6) years old and was developed at MIT Auto ID Labs. The "buzz" in the marketplace is the concept of storing product identification on chips no larger than a grain of sand, then placing these chips on tags, which in turn are placed on objects so they can be uniquely identified. The applications and possibilities for EPC/RFID are endless as these objects in motion are traced throughout the supply chain. RFID/EPC Essentials will highlight concepts, components, and applications to enable technical knowledge for beginning the road to implementation. Yes, it's a simple concept with technical ramifications but it's driven by business and process re-engineering possibilities which require commitment, resources and time to reap the many benefits associated with adoption. 1.2. RFID/ EPC Implementation GuidelinesThe RFID/ EPC Implementation Guidelines provide an overview of key actions and executable milestones recommended by EPC/RFID early adopters based on their real-world experiences. Related actions are grouped into categories and chronological phases for easy reference. Based on the business drivers at hand, an individual company may choose to adopt all or a selective list of actions to create their customized roadmap. It is important to note that separate roadmaps may be required for compliance versus business transformation types of RFID initiatives. Iterative steps in the roadmap may be necessary to get the job done. 1.3. Working with EPCglobalBy subscribing to EPCglobal, your company has joined a dynamic, global community dedicated to developing global standards for the use of Electronic Product Code(tm) (EPC) and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology within the supply chain and promoting rapid and efficient implementation of the EPCglobal Network(tm). Employing EPCglobal Standards and EPC/RFID technology via the EPCglobal Network will provide your company with increased accuracy and visibility at all points in your supply chain. To get the most from being an EPCglobal Community member, take advantage of all EPCglobal has to offer:
EPCglobal is committed to providing you with the information, tools and support services to increase the efficiency of your supply chain through the rapid and efficient implementation of EPC and RFID technology.
Working with EPCglobal Action Groups
Working with EPCglobal Simple Standards Development Process
1.4. Public Policy OverviewIt's been stated that "RFID has the potential to jeopardize consumer privacy, eliminate anonymity and threaten civil liberties. It uses technology to invade privacy, and these new instruments will surely doom civilization." These statements from consumers and consumer advocates are certainly thought-provoking and designed to raise questions regarding RFID. They are good questions, and they deserve honest answers. That's why EPCglobal states "Privacy is as important as anything else we are doing!" Our commitment is to understand and address the complex questions that surround consumer privacy. The EPCglobal mission regarding Public Policy and Privacy is to manage critical issues, displace negative misinformation with a positive perception of EPC technology and to ensure that EPC technology is deployed responsibly without undue public, legislative or regulatory delays. In this section of the Cookbook, you will learn how EPCglobal addresses these and other issues surrounding Public Policy and Privacy. 1.5. Importance of Data SynchronizationCompanies require detailed information about their products and supply chain, and the ability to share that information with their trading partners in order to facilitate commercial transactions and the movement of goods and services. In order to serve various needs for information, two distinct information networks have been developed: the Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN) and the EPCglobal Network(tm). The GDSN ensures the quality of static information about commercial entities and product/service groups among partners for collaborative trading. The EPCglobal Network(tm) provides access to dynamic information about the movement of individual items as they pass through the supply chain. The EPCglobal Network and the GDSN each provide significant benefits in their own right. Moreover, for companies striving to achieve a fully collaborative business model, the combination of the EPCglobal Network(tm) and the GDSN can provide a comprehensive, integrated approach to electronic collaboration and, as a result, can be complementary in the effort to optimize global trading relationships. |
