Are we in danger about talking too much about RFID privacy - and not enough about managing the data? Or business processes?
While I understand there is a need to put in appropriate safeguards to guarantee individuals' privacy when developing RFID applications, I'd suggest the scales are in danger of being tipped the wrong way.
It now seems to be the default stance to mention the P word (before anyone else does) as a means of lancing the boil - even when you don't actually have a boil. Let's be charitable and say it's about prevention rather than cure. However, some of the recent privacy legislation proposals in the US seem to be built on paranoia, rather than sensible, reasoned effective arguments designed for long-term consumer protection.
According to this insightful article on AIMglobal, there is now a suggestion in place to have some form of global seal or emblem to demonstrate the presence of an RFID tag. In fact, as the article says, there are already two options.
Yes, we should think seriously about privacy. But no more than also thinking about other RFID issues such the future management and manipulation of the data created by the devices, innovative RFID applications for that data, or the necessary middleware to tie it all together.
At the opening of the EPCglobal RFID Test Centre, there was much talk of the other P-word: process.
RFID by itself does not improve on-shelf availability; improve out-of-stocks; reduce inventory; or reduce shrinkage. It is only the enabler, not the solution. Organisations must focus on the process, and not simply the technology.
Comments (2)
I really enjoyed what you said about RFID being an enabler. That is such a great word to describe RFID technology. More people need to be reminded of that concept when they are investing in that type of technology.
Posted by Marie | November 20, 2007 2:39 PM
Posted on November 20, 2007 14:39
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Posted by Jessica | January 29, 2008 12:35 PM
Posted on January 29, 2008 12:35