In this book version of his dissertation, Uckelmann painstakingly details the limitations and obstacles to success for two key emerging technologies: radio frequency identification (RFID) and the EPCglobal architecture framework. RFID technology, according to Attaran, can save a company money now, and make it more competitive for years to come by “offering direct insight into consumers’ buying habits and increasing efficiency and accuracy” [1]. Uckelmann emphasizes that the EPCglobal architecture framework was designed to provide better supply chain visibility [2].

The most important contribution of this research, however, is not the rich descriptions of these technologies and their benefits. It is this: Uckelmann demonstrates that the traditional types of cost benefit analyses for these kinds of technology adoption projects are flawed, in that they do not convince managers to adopt them. He provides an alternative basis for doing what he calls the value of information (VoI), which is essentially a means for information pricing.

Formulating pricing information in supply networks, Uckelmann contends, means addressing several questions (pp. 104-105): How are prices set? Does the price of information reflect its value to the information recipient? How often can prices change? Can prices vary by participant? Can any information be sold?

The answers to these questions can provide flexible pricing schemes and market-focused means for information value creation.

Executives, supply chain managers, and business analysts may need more background and context to apply Uckelmann’s fresh insights and concepts. Attaran confirms details, critical success factors, and challenges in adopting and implementing RFID technology and systems in supply networks [1]. Hedgepeth provides a historical perspective about RFID technology and a comparison to other technologies [3]. Tian et al. outline an equally ambitious framework based on the Internet of Things. They articulate their own architecture, rather than utilizing the EPCglobal framework [4]. Goetschalckx details supply network design principles, practices, and techniques, and Song and Panayides highlight information-sharing opportunities in maritime supply chains [5,6].

Readers of this book will gain an understanding of how to properly define and evaluate information flows in a supply network.