Auto-ID is about automatically identifying objects, collecting data about the objects, entering the data directly into computer systems, without human involvement, and using the data.

An example is the use of a handheld device in a retail shop to read a barcode on an item.

The device collects data about the item and enters the barcode’s data automatically into a computer system. The computer system then instructs the shop assistant to request payment from the customer.

Auto-ID is used in biometrics, magnetic stripes, radio frequency identification (RFID), optical character recognition (OCR), smart cards and interactive voice recognition (IVR) technology.

A May 2008 survey by ABI Research suggested the overall worldwide RFID market will grow 15 per cent to US$9.7bn from 2007 to 2013.

At Interface Solutions, we now boast a full complement of technology vendors, 350 specialist resellers and a number of non-specialist resellers looking to acquire skills and up-sell auto-ID products to their existing customers.

Transport and logistics is an important sector for auto-ID. Haulage firms want to manage the collection and delivery of goods more efficiently and effectively.

They can check entire pallets of goods in and out more quickly through barcode or RFID scanning, or simply by using a handheld device and electronic signature.

Retailers want to make their warehouses and shop floors more efficient.

New legislative and Government efficiency initiatives suggest that healthcare may soon become a prime area for auto-ID sales as well.

For example, patient wristbands must conform to a specific format and by July 2009 must be printed from a patient demographic system.

Patients’ samples and treatments should be barcoded and matched to patients’ wristbands.

Also in the public sector, waste now has to be tracked through collection, transport and disposal.

In recent years there has been margin erosion on traditional IT kit but, as auto-ID is more niche, margins are higher.

What’s more, resellers who traditionally sell notebook or desktop PCs to large organisations can offer auto-ID solutions to support back-office warehouse operations.

Drawing on the support of distributors, resellers can also win business in the auto-ID market without requiring new skills or large investment.

Martin Smith is auto-ID business unit manager at Interface Solutions