Ubiquitous Computing: Why Auto-ID is the Logical Next Step in Enterprise Automation

This paper identifies and analyzes potential business benefits of ubiquitous computing (UbiComp). Its aim is to challenge whether the growing visibility of topics such as ubiquitous or pervasive computing, automatic identification (Auto-ID) and radio frequency identification (RFID) can be justified from a business perspective. To do so it analyzes the business contribution of existing UbiComp applications, reconstructs their development phases, introduces the business-relevant base functionalities and discusses implications for the design of products, processes and services using UbiComp applications. The creation of an alternative and rather cost-efficient machine-machine relationship between already established information systems and the real world things they try to manage has been identified as the main source of business benefit. However, before businesses can systematically leverage all potential benefits, some technical and political questions, such as creating robust solutions and solving privacy issues, have to be answered. Key points for management Ubiquitous computing technologies make it possible to improve business processes in the areas of supply chain management, product life cycle management and customer relationship management. It also enables new business models such as leasing or pay per use. – Ubiquitous Computing (UbiComp) is a logical next step in business computing. – The associated global standardization required in the area of automatic identification (Auto-ID) is advancing at a swift pace. – Software companies such as SAP are already developing infrastructure software to support UbiComp applications. – Particular importance must be given to the issue of privacy when designing applications involving consumers.