Tracking device debuts at 2004 RSNA meeting

A pilot program launched at the last RSNA meeting explored the use of radio-frequency identification (RFID) tracking to assess the needs of attendees.

Registrants who had preregistered for specific case-based courses were informed that they had been selected to participate in the program. The name badges of those who accepted were embedded with a computer chip that contained personal information. Pickup devices at the entrances to meeting rooms recorded their comings and goings.

Data indicate that the RFID system missed a considerable amount of traffic when compared with CME vouchers and interactive audience response information. A decision about the use of the RFID this year is pending.