The Peloton Approach : forecasting and strategic planning for emerging technologies : a case for RFID

Abstract

The RFID industry is going through a sea of change and at different levels within the industry. Forecasts have been done on different facets of the RFID/EPC industry like the market size or the possible financial returns. However, the forecasts to date are not based on a collective view on the evolving, dynamic and inter-relating nature of such technology covering Retailers, Suppliers and Industry experts on the same landscape. The EPC Peloton Forecasting and Strategic Planning Tool was developed out of a need to collaborate and form consensus around the events and milestones that are critical for the widespread adoption of EPC for the Fast Moving Consumer Goods ("FMCG") industry. Though developed around its need in the RFID space, this tool can be used for decision making around any emerging technology. We are at a critical juncture in the history of RFID where there is excitement among stakeholders and the technology's promise needs to be harnessed by providing the stakeholders with a clear idea of (a) where the technology's future lies and (b) how consensus on how to achieve such a future can be facilitated.

(cont.) The Peloton Approach deals with how to identify or develop a technology forecasting methodology that could capture inputs from all dimensions of the industry and lay down a range of possible future paths. To address the latter issue of collaboration, the Peloton aids in identifying the various stakeholders and their stages of adoption and provide a platform for people at a similar level of adoption to collaborate or enable those seeking information to be able to get into the bandwagon and adopt relevant strategies.