SAP Helps SMBs Tune In To RFID
The software giant last week inked a deal with Intel, Santa Clara, Calif., to feed data collected from RFID tags directly into Intel-based servers or SAP's NetWeaver integration software.
Such direct integration to the back end will be used primarily in "less-complex business environments," they said.
Also last week, SAP, Walldorf, Germany, and RFID hardware vendor Intermec Technologies unveiled Easy Automatic Data Collection for SAP Business One. Upgradable in the field to RFID capabilities, EasyADC is Intermec's entry-level bar-coding system. The solution comprises two handheld terminals, an access point for wireless radio frequency communications and a bar-code printer capable of printing RFID labels.
"Because the business processes for RFID are similar to bar coding, we are using bar coding as the model to help train Business One partners," said Jeff Johnson, global alliance manager for SMB initiatives at Intermec, Everett, Wash. "We are giving SAP partners a chance to decide if they want to sell hardware."
RFID for the SMB market is significant because it "will allow the little guy to compete with the big guy, especially as all the big players are requiring RFID tags," said Dan Carr, president and CEO of Computer Decisions International, a Business One partner in Farmington Hills, Mich. "The real value will come when companies use it internally to improve operations and logistics."
Johnson said EasyADC for Business One will be available the end of April through Avnet, ScanSource and other distributors. "We've set it up so SAP partners can resell it and make margin," said Johnson. The solution carries a $24,995 list price.
SAP also said it hopes to have scheduled by early June a "call-to-action" conference for industry groups, distributors and other vendors.