DC Velocity - July 2011

; AIM;–;THE;Global;Leader;for;Standards,;Education;and;Market;Development;;

As the leading international industry trade association for the automatic identification (auto ID) and mobile computing industries, AIM is dedicated to advancing the understanding and intelligent use of bar code, radio frequency identification (RFID) and mobile computing applications to provide robust, cost-effective solutions to a wide range of business issues. AIM currently has over 700 members around the world including those in 13 national and regional chapters in North America, Europe, the Pacific Rim, and South America.

Founded in 1972, AIM's mission has always been one of education, standards development, and market expansion. To accomplish this mission, AIM serves two audiences:

; Providers of automatic ID and mobile computing solutions and

; Current and future users of the technologies.

Current AIM activities are focused on
• Development of bar code and radio frequency identification (RFID) standards and implementation
guidelines
• Education through publications, presentations, trade shows and other media
• Market support through a well-defined platform of member benefits
; Sales support through an international chapter network
Current Opportunities:

; The growing concern about the safety and security of supply chains -- from food and pharmaceuticals to industrial, commercial and retail products -- will require item level serialization to provide accurate track-and-trace capabilities. The use of bar codes, RFID and sensors will all play critical roles in securing supply chains. AIM maintains a leadership position in advising on and developing standards and guidelines for track-and-trace applications.

; As the Internet of Things (Io T) becomes a greater reality, auto ID and mobile computing will be major enabling technologies. AIM is working to identify ways to integrate these technologies seamlessly into the overall global strategy

; Privacy and data security are key issues as the adoption of RFID progresses. AIM has published several policy and guidance papers on privacy and data security. AIM works closely with policy makers and consumer advocacy groups around the world to explain how to properly implement RFID to return the greatest value while preserving privacy.

; The use of bar codes and RFID in smart mobile devices is growing. AIM is working to help ensure that these applications are effective, secure and, above all, beneficial to consumers and businesses alike.

; AIM also produces The AIM Expo -- a cross-vertical trade show and conference program that provides education about auto ID technologies and applications. Taking place in conjunction with Pack Expo in 2011 in Las Vegas, the conference program includes a track on Internet of Things, as well as other important vertical markets.

AIM membership is open to vendors and users of auto ID and mobile computing technologies, academic institutions, government agencies, software providers, and individuals involved in the development or implementation of solutions employing AIM technologies.