The radio frequency identification (RFID) middleware market has come a long way since the first-generation middleware with the evolution of edgeware, intelligent hardware devices with embedded middleware and cloud-based solutions. The pure middleware participants could well be on their way out if they do not adapt to the demand for more economical, precise and scalable middleware solutions that can support expansion.
The radio frequency identification (RFID) middleware market has come a long way since the first-generation middleware with the evolution of edgeware, intelligent hardware devices with embedded middleware and cloud-based solutions. The pure middleware participants could well be on their way out if they do not adapt to the demand for more economical, precise and scalable middleware solutions that can support expansion.
New-age middleware systems should also have the ability to be customized, easily integrated into any process, and support multiple technologies and not merely RFID.
New analysis from Frost & Sullivan, Strategic Analysis of the Global RFID Middleware Market, finds that the market earned revenues of $1.05 billion in 2010 and estimates this to reach $2.99 billion in 2017 due to the widespread integration of RFID technology into business processes globally.
"The RFID middleware market is becoming increasingly characterized by integrated end-to-end solutions providers, as customers are looking for one-stop providers to make their experience hassle free," says Frost & Sullivan Senior Research Analyst Nandini Bhattacharya. "As a result, the market is experiencing greater participation from system integrators and enterprise application software providers."
The rising market density and thereby, intensifying competition is the result of several technological advancements and the availability of cost-effective, innovative solutions. Large investors looking to make the most of the opportunities available often resort to acquiring smaller companies or expanding their business to become holistic service providers.
Mergers and acquisitions as well as strong partnerships are critical to survive in this price-sensitive market. Although the costs of middleware have reduced in the last couple of years, they are prohibitive to many end users with budgetary constraints.
Further, numerous potential customers are unaware of the benefits and features of this technology. In some parts of the world, people are still not comfortable with RFID, and they would rather use bar codes. The lack of skilled laborers makes the implementation of RFID middleware all the more difficult.
Despite all these challenges, the RFID middleware market is poised for impressive growth, as the governments of various countries are automating their processes for real-time access. The market is expecting considerable demand from the defense, aerospace, healthcare and security verticals. Participants can also contain costs to some extent with the passing of the Electronic Product Code (EPCglobal), which is a globally accepted standard regulating RFID technology in the global supply chain. This standard encourages the use of less expensive tags and readers.
"The availability of standard-compliant products and solutions has lowered the prices of the solution and mitigated the compatibility issues," notes Bhattacharya. "The EPCglobal standard also lowers the risk of implementing EPC/RFID technology, giving a huge thrust to the market."