• Unexpected Costs: Implementing RFID systems can be expensive, especially for large-scale deployments. The cost of RFID tags, readers, infrastructure, and integration with existing systems can be a significant barrier to adoption, especially for evolving interoperability in enterprises with multiple stakeholders.

• Privacy and Security Concerns: RFID technology involves the transmission of data over radio frequencies, and there are concerns about data privacy and security. If not properly secured, RFID systems could be susceptible to unauthorised access and data breaches, leading to potential misuse of sensitive information.

• Interoperability Issues: There are various RFID standards and frequencies used in different industries and regions. Lack of standardised protocols can create interoperability issues, making it challenging for RFID systems from different manufacturers to work seamlessly together.

• Limited Read Range and Line-of-Sight Requirements: The read range of passive RFID tags is typically limited, and the tags require a direct line-of-sight to the RFID reader. These limitations can restrict the effectiveness of RFID in certain applications, especially when dealing with large distances or obstructed environments.

• Data Collision and Read Errors: In scenarios with a high density of RFID tags, multiple tags may respond simultaneously, leading to data collision and read errors. This phenomenon is known as tag collision and can impact the accuracy and efficiency of RFID systems.

• Environmental Interference: RFID signals can be affected by the surrounding environment, such as metal or liquids, which can lead to signal attenuation and reduced read accuracy. Special considerations and adjustments may be necessary to overcome these challenges in certain applications.

• Tag Durability and Reliability: Depending on the application, RFID tags may be exposed to harsh environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures, moisture, and physical stress. Ensuring the durability and reliability of RFID tags in such conditions is crucial for their successful adoption.

• Resistance to Change and Integration Challenges: Implementing RFID technology may require significant changes to existing business processes and systems. Small pilots alleviate blockages from resistance to change and challenges in integrating RFID with legacy systems can slow down adoption efforts.

• Regulatory Compliance: Depending on the application and the type of data being collected, RFID deployments may need to comply with specific regulations and standards related to data privacy, security, and electromagnetic emissions.

Despite these pitfalls, RFID technology continues to evolve, and ongoing advancements in the field are gradually addressing some of these challenges. As the technology becomes more mature and cost-effective, and as organisations find innovative solutions to overcome these obstacles, the adoption of RFID is likely to increase across various industries.