IT News:Microsoft

MS in talks with retail chains for RFID software

MICROSOFT is in talks with retail biggies, financial service providers and government agencies for its new radio frequency identification device (RFID) software. The software, called Microsoft Biztalk server 2006 R2, can be used across sectors to improve business processes such as asset tracking, supply chain management and inventory control. This is possible as the software enables all types of RFID to become fully compatible with the Microsoft platform.
The US retail chain Wal-Mart adopted radio frequency identification device software nearly three years ago to improve its back-end operations. Retail chains in India could take a cue and use the new platform for inventory management. Banks, on the other hand, can use it to track transaction records or even their high-networth clients. RFID solutions
can be used for e-passports as well.
BizTalk RFID was developed at the MIDC centre in Hyderabad. Microsoft has tied up with over 100 partners including HP, Intel, TCS, small software and hardware vendors to develop the platform. In fact, TCS was among the early movers in developing RFID applications. “We have implemented this technology for ITC’s cigarette unit in Kolkata,” said Pradeep Misra, centre of excellence (RFID), TCS.
HP is also implementing the technology for Bajaj Auto in partnership with Microsoft. The technology can also serve many other enterprises. “With the drop in hardware prices and devices becoming standardised, RFID technology will become affordable. With our easy to use software, RFID technology will be ready for mass adoption in due course, said Srini Koppolu, corporate vice-president, Microsoft India Development Centre.