Single platform system improves multichannel store operations
Merchants that want to improve customer engagement, data analytics and retail inventory management require streamlined, efficient retail technology. According to a recent report by the National Retail Federation (NRF), Demandware and the University of Arizona, 35.8 percent of retailers are considering a single-platform solution to help them manage their multichannel operations.
The survey polled more than 200 retail business technology executives in the U.S. and Europe and found that the majority plan to upgrade their retail software and increase or maintain technology investments. With the growth of ecommerce and omnichannel marketing, many companies see single-platform solutions as the best choice.
"In this consumer-led industry, retailers are working overtime to keep up with the expectations and demands of their savvy customers, and are intent on integrating the digital shopping experience like never before," said NRF Vice President of Retail Technologies Tom Litchford.
A single platform is advantageous because it seamlessly integrates information from all channels. Store associates can have instant access to updated inventory information on their retail POS devices after an online sale occurs. It also facilitates comprehensive customer intelligence. As IBM CEO Ginni Rometty said at the NRF Convention, big data is becoming a "natural resource" for the retail industry, and businesses need access to consolidated, up-to-date information.
