Accu-Sort Wins Frost and Sullivan Award

Accu-Sort received the award for its ability to evaluate the business process and successfully integrate RFID technology with existing infrastructure systems, most notably with its Flexible Automation Solution Tools (FAST). FAST Tag reflects a complete end-to-end solution, encompassing bar code labeling systems, RFID components and data management systems.

"The RFID product profile within Accu-Sort Systems exemplifies a percipient understanding of existing market trends," states Frost & Sullivan Industry Analyst Priyanka Gouthaman. "The FAST Tag compliance suite is focused on end-user segments that are being driven by mandate compliances. Retail- and government-driven mandates represent a significant driver in the RFID market and the company's strategic focus in this regard is likely to result in future benefits."

The keystone of the FAST Tag line is the software solution of the product offering. The software ensures comprehensive control over the edge devices, which range from RFID label applicators to desktop printers to bar code scanners and RFID portals. The FAST Tag software controls and integrates these devices while managing the communication to business enterprise solutions such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) and warehouse management systems (WMS). The configurability of the software enables accuracy and reliability of deployment.

Accu-Sort's specialization in supply chain applications is expected to hold significant potential. The RFID market is witnessing rapid strides in supply chain applications where the potential for the technology is slated to be the highest. Frost & Sullivan recognized Accu-Sort's ongoing efforts in product development that are aimed at creating maximum customer value.

Accu-Sort was also commended for strategically positioning itself to address present and future market trends. The RFID product line includes solutions that facilitate the application of tags at a consumer product goods (CPG) manufacturing facility as well as the reading systems at the retailer's warehouse. The tag applicator solutions leverage Accu-Sort's systems integration and software capabilities while the reading systems leverage the company's expertise in over- the-conveyor (OTC) technology for bar code tracking.

Frost & Sullivan cited several business practices that have helped Accu-Sort achieve excellence in auto ID applications, including product innovation, partnerships with Videojet Technologies and other firms, enhanced service levels and systems integration.

"RFID technology is still considered to be in an evolutionary stage," Gouthaman said. "Support services therefore would prove critical until the technology evolves to a state of 'plug and play.' With the industry's largest support network, Accu-Sort's team reflects a customer-centric focus aimed at easing RFID deployment."

The company also addresses the twin issues of integration and compatibility of different hardware components. "Accu-Sort occupies a vantage position of operating as a systems provider and integrator. Evaluation of the business process is critical to a successful integration of RFID technology with existing infrastructure systems. The Accu-Sort deployment methodology is designed to identify specific consumer needs and process challenges and tailor the solution to those needs. Accu-Sort's 'Tag-to-Ship' centralized system architecture enables a scalable integration with existing data management infrastructure," Gouthaman said.