Commercial and implementation issues relating to the widespread acceptance and adoption of radio frequency identification technology

Abstract

This chapter examines the perceptions of RFID among Australian RFID suppliers/integrators, and the role and importance that perceptions play in the actual suppliers/integrators, and the role and importance that perceptions play in the actual adoption process. As the Chicago School of Sociology often proclaimed, perceptions are ‘real in their consequences’ (Thomas and Znaniecki, 1927, p.8, cited in Rogers, 1995, p.209). This project also examines how integrators’ perceptions can act upon present expectations of RFID technology. An understanding of what leading integrators think at this moment may benefit vendors and others to create applications that will eventually secure more widespread acceptance. The research study discussed in this chapter was undertaken using qualitative data collection methods, i.e. personal interviews with a sample of leading RFID suppliers/integrators located in Australia.