Non-Tech
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Symbol Technologies--A Supply Chain Play
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| An SI Board Since May 2001 |
| Posts |
SubjectMarks |
Bans |
Symbol |
| 38 |
4 |
0
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SBL |
| Emcee:
lkj
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Type:
Moderated
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For the lack of a better place to put Symbol Technologies, I chose to put it under Transportation. I rather see a Supply Chain Technology Category, which would much better describe Symbol's technology and market. Supply Chain is an explosive market. While software from i2 adds a lot of intelligence to planning, Symbol's technology translates the physical items into traceable and manageable electronic listings. In a sense, Symbol's technology puts the digital signature on every physical item.
Symbol is a leader in Scanning Technology and Wireless LAN. Its scanning products range from components such as laser scanning modules to PDAs/PCs with built-in laser scanners. Its scanners can be standalone, or can act as terminal devices to a server through a wireless LAN. Symbol's latest wireless LAN products are based on 802.11b. Symbol also offers some interest products such as the NetVision VoIP Wireless Phone and the 802.11b Compact Flash Card.
One of Symbol's key competitive advantages is its patent portfolio. At the end of Q1/01, it has 620 patents and 300 in the pipeline.
Through direct sales and VARs, Symbol sells products around the world. It divides them into Ameria, Europe/MiddleEast/Africa, and APAC. Correspondingly, they contribute to 67.2%, 27.5%, and 5.3% of total sales at the end of Q1/01.
Symbol's bar code scanning systems are typically used by companies that have to manage a lot of (moving) parts. Its typical customers are retailers, logistics service providers, large manufacturing companies, and the government. To a lesser degree, healthcare companies and education facilities can also use its technology. Symbol's typical customers are The US Postal, UPS, Safeway (I think), and the big 3 automakers. Recently, it has announced Kmart, Walmart, and Sears as its new clients.
Typical sales cycles are long, because system integration needs to be done first. I would guess that it normally takes a couple of quarter to complete. Symbol's technical people really need to get into the supply chain software of its clients before scanned data can mean anything to an inventory management software, a warehouse management software, or a product tracking software.
As you can see, the potential is big. Let's get started!
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