Keeping up with the most recent changes in retail technology may not always be easy, but it is critical to merchants' continued success in an increasingly digital-based world. Retail Solutions Online addressed some of the main concerns surrounding innovations in retail technology, noting that the cost can be an impediment to early adoption, but that this problem diminishes as equipment or software becomes more widespread. Reliability is another key factor when implementing the latest advances, which decision-makers should investigate before the initial investment. 

However, the source also noted that remote support can overcome some of the hurdles involved with adding more advanced systems to business operations, as this can enable a rapid-response time when trouble arises. 

Because of the prevalence of mobile devices and the utility of in-store product tracking and other advances, the deployment of the latest retail software and hardware can be important to drawing in customers and possessing thorough business intelligence. Retail Solutions Online noted that payment and digital signage-based technology will be two types of platforms that merchants should continue to invest in for better consumer engagement. 

Providing the most personalized shopping experience possible has long been the goal of the retail industry. Serving individual customers' needs can create significant loyalty and long-term interest in returning to a brand, which is why some companies have looked to shopping apps to enhance their in-store operations. 

While these kinds of app services are not yet widespread, they have gained considerably more clout since Apple decided to offer them as of December 6. Apple's iBeacon technology ties GPS and an app together to assist customers. Shoppers visiting Apple stores will be able to use their iPhone to guide them through the location, helping them to pick up orders, upgrade their devices or purchase products. This is not the first such type of technology, with Macy's and J.C. Penney both having implemented mobile notification and guidance systems within their stores in the past. 

With retail technology still undergoing a number of changes, merchants will want to utilize versatile software that can be customized to account for mobile shopping and apps that might link with or provide customer data to the business. Improving the shopping experience can lead to better sales as well as a better understanding of consumers. 

While QR codes are a familiar sight, they often go unused by passers-by. Accessing the information inherent to the codes typically involves a number of steps, from downloading a special app to using them to properly sync a smartphone camera with the image – which may be difficult on public transportation, or more effort than the act is worth on a crowded sidewalk. 

But PayPal may finally have found a use for QR codes: to process payments. According to Retail Customer Experience, PayPal will be introducing a new "Payment Code" app that lets customers shop by scanning QR codes with their smartphones. This is but another step toward mobile payments, which companies like PayPal, Google and Apple have been pushing for. 

The source explained that after customers finish shopping, the app will display a QR code that merchants can scan with their point of sale system to tally the price of all items. Should the retailer lack a QR code scanner, the app will issue a four-digit pin that can be entered to complete the purchase. As with so many advances, the adoption of this technology will likely rely on how conveniently and simply it works. 

With the increasing number of mobile devices available to consumers, many retail industry professionals are considering how to use this technology and its related trends within their industry. Organizations that don't do this may find themselves playing catch up against savvy companies that have integrated smartphones, apps and other modern innovations into their business strategies. 

However, retailers should consider how these changes may benefit their companies as well as the shopping experience they offer their patrons. Just because something is popular and new does not mean that it is applicable for merchants' operations. Even if other shops have integrated certain technologies into their business, the same practice may not be appropriate for the specific market that a brand caters to. 

One common feature that many chains have added to improve the in-store experience and encourage customers to shop longer is free WiFi. Major franchises like McDonalds and Starbucks typically offer the service, and for establishments focused on dining or drink, this may be appropriate. However, for other businesses, it may not accomplish retailers' goals.

WiFi outside the food industry
For more generalized or apparel retailers, free wireless access may not be a worthwhile investment. This appears to be the case with J.C. Penney, which recently decided to end its WiFi program, according to BuzzFeed. A company representative informed the source that only a few customers were using the service, and ending the initiative will save the chain $7 million annually. 

BuzzFeed speculated that many patrons may not be aware that they can use a store's wireless network. Fortune highlighted that Macy's added the service, but it didn't advertise it in the store. This could be affecting why shoppers are not using in-store WiFi, and brands that emphasize it could see more return on their investment. 

However, wireless initiatives can improve the functionality of branded apps and enable the use of mobile payment methods at the point of sale. Rather than relying on uncertain 4G or 3G reception, stores can ensure their customers are fully able to use their smartphones while shopping. Companies that offer WiFi can expand their data-gathering efforts and customer customization endeavors, but only if they are prepared to do so. 

Before integrating new, potentially costly, services to a chain's standard operation, decision-makers should consider how it applies to customers and staff members, and what additional steps may be necessary to enhance their implementation throughout the business. 

For now, merchants that do not integrate retail apps into their store operations will continue to provide adequate service to the majority of their customers. According to the CFI Group, only 21 percent of shoppers use apps while shopping. This audience skews toward smartphone-owning millennials, and while they are an important demographic, Generation X and baby boomers both remain critical parts of the retail landscape. 

However, the current idea that many smartphone-savvy individuals are millennials may soon become an unsupported perception. The same study also found that only 26 percent of surveyed individuals have been using mobile apps for a year or more. Sixty-three percent were new to smartphone and tablet applications, having only used them for less than a year. 

As app users become more knowledgeable about the technology, retailers may need to shift how they approach mobile device owners. NFC equipment capable of handling mobile wallets at the point of sale may be one way to meet customer expectations. Convenience and a more integrated shopping experience can help retailers adapt to the changing market environment. 

Technological innovations are everywhere these days. With the advent of the Internet, people are now more connected than ever before, and devices like smartphones and tablets have changed the way individuals conduct their daily lives. Now, the retail industry is also shifting due to new technology, as consumers are using various channels and gadgets to get their shopping done.

As as a result, many merchants have implemented or plan to use point of sale solutions that accept all payment forms from customers, whether they are paying with cash, card or even their mobile devices. For this reason, it is imperative that businesses ensure they use secure POS systems – otherwise, they risk losing valuable customers if information is compromised or lost.

Several security obstacles remain
Although retailers do take steps to keep their POS solutions and customer data safe, there are still challenges that linger in this regard. These were recently highlighted in a report released by McAfee and the IHL Group, and one of the first obstacles revealed is the fact that some merchants do not have controls in place to address POS security concerns when something happens. This is one reason why costs related to security issues continue to increase, the source explained.

For larger brands, the study found there is no specific method being used by companies to keep POS systems secure. Some retailers are utilizing whitelisting strategies, while others are employing antivirus software to safeguard their technology. However, one positive trend that the research pointed out is that merchants are paying more attention to POS security and are taking steps to ensure all information – both operational and customer-related – remains safe.

Security provides streamlined experiences
In the end, it all comes to down to excellent shopper experiences, the report asserted. As consumer connectivity increases, patrons will be looking for fast and streamlined interactions with brands.

"Consumers are only looking for one thing – a consistent shopping experience," the source stated. "This could be from a variety of devices or from a range of locations. The consumer just wants to be able to buy anywhere, fulfill anywhere and return anywhere."

Fortunately, with the right POS software and some dedication, brands can make sure that transactions remain secure while at the same time having policies and procedures in place to address any issues that arise.

When hearing the term "big data," one may think of large databases filling a room or complicated processes required to access information. But that's not the case anymore as big data has made its way into nearly every business sector, including the retail industry. Merchants are now taking advantage of big data to gain more insight into their operations by exploring aspects like their inventory procedures, financial statements and point of sale processes.

But another element in which retailers can obtain more valuable information through big data is their customer management strategies. Every day, companies gather a variety of details relating to their shoppers, whether it's product preferences, past purchases and their favorite communication channels, among others. By looking deeper into big data and knowing what it can do for their customer programs, brands can establish more meaningful and personal relationships with consumers, helping to build loyalty and drive repeat sales.

Big data can go personal
Taking advantage of every interaction point with customers is one way in which merchants can collect information that can be used to improve their operations. Wired.com offered several methods for retailers that want to utilize big data to foster more successful relationships with patrons, both in stores and online.

First, the source suggested that brands should not assume that they always know what their shoppers want and need. The only way that companies can truly know what their customers are looking for is to gather and analyze information, the put that data to good use. Second, businesses shouldn't be focused on gathering all of the data that they can; instead, they should collect quality information that can give them the tools needed to boost loyalty.

The source also noted that being flexible and agile is key to building solid customer relationships. Consumer demands are constantly changing, and brands need to be able to change with them. Fortunately, big data gives merchants the information they need to address and implement these shifts in customers' wants and needs, the source detailed.

Other uses for big data
Besides customer management practices, big data technology also provides retailers with the ability to gain more insight into a variety of their daily processes. Business Insider Australia highlighted some of the aspects that can be enhanced with big data. One of these includes information about how brands can engage their staff members and ensure in-store customers are able to easily find associates to answer questions. Another big data element is that it can highlight merchants' weaknesses and strengths, giving them the chance to make their operations more successful.