Robert Oberle of Vizinex RFID
An exclusive Tech Tribune Q&A with Robert Oberle, the co-founder and CTO of Vizinex RFID, which was honored in our:
Tell us the origin story of Vizinex RFID – what problem were you trying to solve and why?
Vizinex was formed by the management team of an earlier venture, RCD Technology. RCD Technology was an RFID tag company that sought to manufacture RFID labels and flexible tags for the mass market and was unable to scale its manufacturing and product offering quickly enough to succeed in that segment of the RFID market. However, the team that founded Vizinex had confidence in the RFID market and was able to apply lessons learned in the space to the asset (or durable) tag segment of the market.
RFID has never been a plug-and-play market in which a generic tag can be used across a wide array of dissimilar applications. Recognition of this fact, the team’s breadth of experience in manufacturing, and knowledge of the market allowed the team to create a customer-focused business where we create application specific solutions (tags). Our strong commitment to customer engagement and satisfaction and our nimble manufacturing methodology have allowed us to create a strong and so far successful business.
What was the biggest hurdle you encountered in your journey?
As with any self-funded startup, we had to move quickly to recognize opportunities in which we could either succeed long term or cut off those that could not before they became a drain on resources. Additionally, we had to overcome the proverbial “couple guys and a dog in a garage” perception that stigmatizes startup manufacturers. Staying engaged with customers and keeping our commitments have allowed us to gain trust and convert early prospects into long-term customers.
What does the future hold for Vizinex RFID?
The present business environment is a challenge, owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fortunately for us, many of our customers are in markets that are still in very high demand: IT equipment and medical devices. We are staying engaged with our present customer base, controlling our costs, and preserving our ability to deliver the right RFID tag solution for our customers. Recently, we expanded our engineering staff and acquired new equipment that should keep us ahead of demand and rapidly fulfill customers’ evolving requirements. We anticipate being in a good position to continue growing the business when the overall economic situation improves.
What are your thoughts on the local tech startup scene in Bethlehem?
Bethlehem and the Lehigh Valley have responded well to the evolution of the local economy. Certainly the loss of Lucent, Agere, Bethlehem Steel, and heavy industry were huge blows to the region, but the natural assets of an educated workforce, the geographic location, and a much lower cost of living than adjacent areas has allowed the area to rebound. I came to Pennsylvania from New Jersey and can say firsthand that we relocated for the improved environment. Additionally, there have been resources such as the Ben Franklin Technology Partners that foster many startup companies, contributing to the success of the region.
What’s your best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Listen to your customers and work hard to make sure that there is alignment between what they want to buy and what you have to offer.