IMRA Introduces Web-based RFID Course
"Discovering RFID" Developed in Conjunction
with ePC Group and Sun Microsystems
On January 25, 2004, the International Mass Retail Association (IMRA) will unveil the first-of-its-kind Web-based Discovering RFID management training course. Designed as a primer for retailers and product suppliers on the successful implementation of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, Discovering RFID is geared toward mid- to senior-level managers who may have only a peripheral knowledge of RFID and what implications it has for their operations. The course, which takes approximately 50 minutes to complete, identifies key technology, infrastructure, culture and management issues that every company must consider before implementing RFID technology.
>From selecting the right members of the project team to defining the business case behind RFID to developing an implementation checklist, Discovering RFID contains important information as to what RFID can and cannot do, as well as definitions key to understanding the technology.
"Companies can get started implementing RFID today and with Discovering RFID, executives with any level of RFID knowledge will understand the impact this game-changing technology will have on their operations," explains Don Gilbert, senior technology consultant with IMRA charged with overseeing the Discovering RFID project. "We want to make sure all areas of management understand what RFID can bring to the table."
Developed in conjunction with ePC Group and Sun Microsystems, Discovering RFID clarifies the business and technology issues that surround a successful RFID implementation in both the retail and merchandise manufacturing industries. The course ˆ peer reviewed by both retailers and manufacturers ˆ will be kept current as this technology evolves, and will be presented over time in multiple languages.
As the leading alliance of retailers and their product manufacturing partners, IMRA has undertaken many discussions with its members regarding the business case and implementation of RFID.
IMRA is pleased to partner with ePC Group, the leading global RFID advisory practice, and Sun Microsystems, the foremost provider of industrial-strength hardware, software, services and education that make the Internet work for retail.
According to Pete Abell, co-founder and senior partner of ePC Group, "Executives need to understand the product-specific and site-specific factors that make 100% read rates a challenging yet attainable goal. This course will help them identify and mobilize the Subject Matter Experts within their organization needed to make this cross-functional initiative a success." Bob DeLaney, director of Worldwide Industry Marketing at Sun Microsystems continues, "As one of the first technology companies to become involved with the development and direction of RFID, we understand the importance of having RFID based on open and standards-based technology; yet it is incumbent upon executives to fully understand the potential this technology can provide."
In order to make the application available to the widest audience possible, IMRA will offer Discovering RFID for only $100 per participant. The Web-based course can be taken at anytime over any type of Internet connection. To pre-register for the course, which will be available January 25, visit http://rfid.information.sun.com. For more information on Discovering RFID, send an email to rfid@imra.org.
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The International Mass Retail Association (IMRA) is the world`s leading alliance of the fastest growing and most innovative retailers and their product and service suppliers. IMRA members represent more than $1 trillion in sales annually and operate more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers nationwide. Its member retailers and suppliers have facilities in all 50 states, as well as internationally, and employ millions of Americans.
The ePC Group, Ltd. is the leading global RFID advisory practice, with deep expertise in RFID implementation. Its impartial guidance allows clients to confidently navigate the maze of RFID standards and emerging technologies. The ePC Group logo and "Making waves .work" are trademarks or registered trademarks of The ePC Group, Ltd. in the United States and other countries.
Sun, Sun Microsystems, the Sun logo and "The Network Is The Computer" are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sun Microsystems, Inc. in the United States and other countries.
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