Looking ahead: emerging technologies.

In addition to a list of the top ten technologies, the AICPA Top Technologies Task Force issued a list of five emerging technologies. These technologies are expected to have commercial impact in the next 24 to 36 months. The emerging technologies are:

1. RFID (radio frequency identification) one day could be used to track everything from soda cans to cereal boxes. Currently, most such tracking is done with bar codes that need to be scanned manually and read individually. RFID tags do not require line-of-sight for reading. A recent InternetWeek.com report (January 12, 2005) cited a prediction by market research firm In-Stat that revenue from these electronic tags will reach $2.8 billion in five years. Last year's revenues were $300 million. Currently, the tags are used primarily in tracking goods from suppliers to store shelves. This market is being driven by Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world's largest retailer, which requires that its top suppliers use this technology. Similar mandates have been issued by Target Corp., Albertsons Inc., and the U.S. Department of Defense, according to In-Stat. Recently, business media have reported complaints from some Wal-Mart suppliers about costs. The tags can cost as little as 15 cents each to more than $100. Because of the expense...