Middleware, also known as RFID manager software, enables the rapid development and deployment of RFID systems. The middleware absorbs differences in various RFID tags from multiple suppliers and integrates that data, making it possible to build flexible and scalable RFID solutions. The middleware also includes tools to monitor and maintain RFID systems.

Middleware needs to filter non-essential RFID data as close to the source as possible. It is invisible to applications and will not overwhelm the system. The transition from deployments to networks capable of handling this increased load will require a solution that is scalable as the deployment grows. RFID traffic is like other Middleware applications or data types like voice and video.

Correct middleware infrastructure helps to ensure the investment protection of RFID networks. As RFID deployments transition from serial to IP and proprietary, closed Networks to standards-based open Networks, interoperability with equipment made by multiple device manufacturers is required.

IBM was the market leader in the broader RFID market for interconnecting the edge servers to applications in distributed and centralized IT locations. Tibco and WebMethods also had measurable market shares in this segment.

IBM was the market leader in RFID middleware with a market presence in enterprise application integration middleware and edge middleware. IBM had shipments of $30 million in 2004 for RFID middleware, representing 25% market share.

The RFID Edge Middleware market is forecasted to grow enormously in the next few years. By 2010 the market is projected as growing to 769.5 million, up just 47 million in 2004. Just one year later in 2011 the market is going double from 2010 reaching 1,557.5 million.

Report Methodology

This is the two-hundred thirty-ninth report in a series of market research reports that provide forecasts in communications, telecommunications, the internet, computer, software, and telephone equipment. The project leaders take direct responsibility for writing and preparing each report. They have significant experience preparing industry studies. Forecasts are based on primary research and proprietary data bases. Forecasts reflect analysis of the market trends in the segment and related segments. Unit and dollar shipments are analyzed through consideration of dollar volume of each market participation in the segment. Market share analysis includes conversations with key customers of products, industry segment leaders, marketing directors, distributors, leading market participants, and companies seeking to develop measurable market share. Over 200 in-depth interviews are conducted for each report with a broad range of key participants and opinion leaders in the market segment.

About the Company

WinterGreen Research, founded in 1985, provides strategic market assessments in telecommunications, communications equipment, health care, and advanced computer technology. Industry reports focus on opportunities that will expand existing markets or develop major new markets. The reports assess new product and service positioning strategies, new and evolving technologies, and technological impact on products, services, and markets. Market shares are provided. Leading market participants are profiled, and their marketing strategies, acquisitions, and strategic alliances are discussed. The principals of WinterGreen Research have been involved in analysis and forecasting of international business opportunities in telecommunications and advanced computer technology markets for over 30 years.

About the Principal Authors

Ellen T. Curtiss, Technical Director, co-founder of WinterGreen Research, conducts strategic and market assessments in technology-based industries. Previously she was a member of the staff of Arthur D. Little, Inc., for 23 years, most recently as Vice President of Arthur D. Little Decision Resources, specializing in strategic planning and market development services. She is a graduate of Boston University and the Program for Management Development at Harvard Graduate School of Business Administration. She is the author of recent studies on worldwide telecommunications markets and the Top Ten Telecommunications market analysis and forecasts.

Susan Eustis, President, co-founder of WinterGreen Research, has done research in communications and computer markets and applications. She holds several patents in microcomputing and parallel processing. She is the author of recent studies of the Regional Bell Operating Companies' marketing strategies, Internet equipment, a study of Internet Equipment, Worldwide Telecommunications Equipment, Top Ten Telecommunications, Digital Loop Carrier, Web Hosting, and Application Integration markets. Ms. Eustis is a graduate of Barnard College.