Mobile devices have been proving for years that they can significantly help users to conduct a variety of functions and improve their productivity, whether it's checking on finances, browsing online or keeping in touch with others. Now as smartphones and tablets are making their way into the business world, retailers are beginning to take notice by adopting these gadgets for their own benefit.

Wired writes that one of the ways in which merchants are using mobile devices is by equipping sales associates with them so they can answer customers' questions, look up information and even process payments. Analysts expect the trend to grow significantly over the next few years as shoppers and companies realize the advantages of using smartphones and tablets in storefronts, the source explains. The gadgets are not set to replace traditional point of sale systems, but will complement them. Merchants can leverage both payment processing methods by also incorporating a retail management software solution to oversee all transactions.

Although traditional POS platforms won't be going anywhere, the emergence of mobile solutions is forecast to alter the retail industry, according to VentureBeat. Not only will associates be able to accept payments from consumers while on the sales floor, but the entire shopping experience will be changed as patrons now have access to more information about products and services than ever before.

Throughout their daily operations, retailers deal with a vast amount of information. This can pertain to their customers, their revenues, their employees, their competitors – the list is endless. Businesses want to keep this data safe, and for many, the systems they use may be sufficient. However, research has shown that those within the retail industry are becoming a target for data breaches conducted by hackers.

CSO Online reports that according to the Data Breach Investigations Reports by Verizon, there were a total of 621 confirmed data breaches worldwide. Of that number, nearly one-quarter (24 percent) targeted retailers. That accounts for 156 incidents, which highlights the growing need for more secure data management systems within retail operations, the source noted. By doing this, merchants can prevent malicious attacks that attempt to steal consumer payment information, businesses' bank account details and a variety of other sensitive data.

But just how can retailers go about accomplishing more security within their organizations? USA Today recommends that companies develop policies that restrict access to their information, allowing it only to be viewed by authorized parties with strong password protection. In addition, frequently updating malware and anti-virus software can help keep attacks at bay. Implementing secure retail management software and POS solutions provides even more protection.

Big Data is a term that has been used a lot recently, as businesses are learning how to take advantage of the information they have to improve upon their operations. Big Data is making its way into the retail industry, as merchants are learning how to analyze information related to their customers, their sector and many other factors to enhance their strategies.

According to recent research from Monetate, the rise of online commerce has resulted in more Big Data use by retailers. But just how are they taking advantage of this valuable resource to drive their products, offerings and functions? The research revealed that as consumers are frequently using their mobile devices, as well as computers, to shop for and purchase merchandise, businesses are gathering the data from these transactions to gain more insight into what consumers' want and need. Elements such as social media, loyalty programs and review sites are also providing companies with essential Big Data, the source points out.

Monetate found that merchandising is the top initiative that retailers want to improve through Big Data, with 62 percent of merchants giving this response. This was followed by marketing campaigns at 60 percent and multichannel strategies at 44 percent. One tool that could significantly help companies with their Big Data use is retail management software, as these platforms give organizations one solution for maintaining all of their vital processes and procedures.

It seems as though nearly everyone has a mobile device these days, as smartphones and tablets are providing more convenience for users. This technology is making its way into the business realm, and consumers are accessing the gadgets for a variety of purposes. Merchants have begun to take notice of the influx of customers who bring their devices into storefronts as well as use them to make product purchases when they are away from their home and work computers.

Because smartphones and tablets are growing in importance within the retail industry, companies are now looking at how the gadgets can be used to boost retention and loyalty among patrons, both those who visit brick-and-mortar locations and those who prefer to get their shopping done online.

How are mobile devices used for shopping purposes?
It's easy to see why consumers use mobile devices while on the go – they provide convenience for getting tasks done, such as managing finances, sending emails, staying in touch and much more. Now purchasing retail products from smartphones and tablets has become another aspect that individuals are using this technology for, and many merchants are accommodating patrons by offering mobile optimized websites and applications.

But what about when people bring their devices into stores? Wireless Ronin Technologies writes that research from ClickIQ revealed the top uses for these gadgets in retail stores, and 61 percent of customers stated they access their smartphones and tablets in brick-and-mortar locations to conduct product research. One-quarter of respondents said they scan bar codes, while 18 percent scan QR codes and 8 percent send images of products to family or friends.

Using mobile to improve sales, loyalty
So what do these findings mean for businesses? The results point out that mobile devices are great tools for enhancing customer relationships and capturing additional sales. Wireless Ronin suggests that in order to boost retention and loyalty, companies need to think beyond providing mobile sites and apps for online shoppers. They also need to offer solutions for patrons using mobile devices in their stores.

The source explains this can be done by developing location-based deals and discounts that are redeemable through consumers' gadgets. Having games and other interactive elements that require the use of smartphones and tablets is another way to improve loyalty and revenues.

In addition, merchants can also offer mobile POS systems that allow customers to pay with their devices, which creates faster and more efficient transactions for all parties.

Mobile devices like smartphones and tablets are being increasingly adopted by consumers, and for this reason, many retailers are implementing solutions that allow shoppers to use their gadgets not only while online, but in stores as well. However, merchants may not be fully aware of all the benefits they gain by incorporating mobile systems into their operations to accommodate device-carrying patrons.

Retail Info Systems News highlights some of the advantages that businesses are able to see when they adopt mobile devices and solutions to perform a variety of daily tasks and responsibilities. One of these benefits is having more efficient control over inventory processes and related information. By using smartphones and tablets, managers and sales associates can access the latest and most accurate data pertaining to what products they have in stock, allowing them to make informed decisions and provide merchandise information to customers.

In addition, the source notes that merchants can gain insight into what consumers see when using their devices in stores, giving businesses the chance to develop sites, apps and other elements to fit the needs and wants of shoppers. Offering mobile POS solutions is perhaps one of the best ways to enhance satisfaction among smartphone and tablet users in brick-and-mortar locations.

Thanks to the emergence of technology solutions and consumer adoption of digital devices, retailers now have a variety of channels on which to promote and sell their products. One of the most popular new forms that merchants are using is their websites, and these platforms are also making their way into the mobile realm, as shoppers are taking to their smartphones and tablets to browse for and buy merchandise. Although the technology is proving effective in terms of boosting sales and customer loyalty, there are still many things that retailers need to improve upon when it comes to their websites, especially when viewed on mobile devices.

Mobile sites need some work
Econsultancy reports that a study by EPiServer revealed that consumers find mobile retail websites increasingly difficult to navigate, which is influencing their purchasing decisions. The research found that 37 percent of respondents stated mobile sites are hard to view and use. This is higher than the 32 percent who said the same a year ago, the source notes.

Of the main problems patrons were having with mobile sites, slow loading times was the most common issue, with 49 percent of responses, followed by trouble with scrolling both horizontally and vertically (48 percent) and links that are hard to click due to their small size (35 percent).

If shoppers are having trouble effectively using retailers' websites through their mobile devices, this could be enough to turn them off from brands and instead turn to competitors to find the products and services they are looking for. In fact, EPiServer discovered that 38 percent of customers would stop using a site that was difficult to navigate, and ultimately they could decide to stop doing business with certain merchants altogether.

Effective strategies for successful retail websites
These findings should be enough to convince companies they need to up the ante on their website development maintenance. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to creating retail websites, there are strategies that merchants can follow to ensure their mobile sites are solid and help to boost sales.

MultiChannel Merchant recommends that businesses first conduct internal – and external, if possible – research to determine what their shoppers want from mobile sites. Taking problems and working quickly to fix them is one of the best ways to enhance mobile customers' experiences. In addition, the source notes that companies can optimize their sites to fit on smartphone and tablet screens, eliminating hard-to-read content and links that are too small.

Every day, businesses deal with a variety of information, whether it pertains to their customers, their operations or other factors. To effectively manage all of this information, merchants look for various solutions. Some may rely on more traditional or manual methods, but for the best possible processes, retailers need to use technology solutions to handle their big data. This can come in the form of retail management software that stores and tracks all kinds of information – business intelligence, customer preferences and many other aspects.

Big data not a strong suit in retail industry
Although merchants are dealing with all of this information, they are not doing a good job of successfully managing it, according to retail industry professional Brian Lent, cofounder of Medio. Lent spoke with InformationWeek and discussed what he believes is a severe lack of "big data skills" within the retail sector. The importance of maintaining control over big data is growing, as consumers are now using smartphones and tablets for shopping purposes, Lent asserts.

"You can collect and store a lot of data efficiently," he said to InformationWeek. "But if you don't know how to take that data, do analytics on it, and put it into operational use, you don't get the real value out of it."

If companies take the steps now to implement solutions that allow them to collect, store and analyze data, they will be sure to see results almost immediately. This information can also be used to improve operations, such as enhanced customer service, better product lines, more accurate inventory processes and many other elements.

What data is being collected?
Although retailers are not particularly adept when it comes to collecting and using big data, many businesses are currently managing various types of information in the hopes of finding their strengths and learning where their weaknesses lie. A study by Bronto revealed that customer purchase data is one factor that merchants are collecting and analyzing to develop better marketing messages.

The research found that 84 percent of retailers are taking advantage of this information to create email content that recommends related products based on past items that shoppers bought. This approach is an effective way to boost sales as well as loyalty, as customers feel valued and appreciated by brands.

There are many ways that merchants can successfully leverage the data they have in their possession, and it all starts with the right mindset and technology solution.

Cash registers and card readers are still prevalent within retailers' brick-and-mortar locations, but another payment form is quickly becoming preferred by many shoppers – mobile payments. Merchants are incorporating this kind of technology into their operations to accommodate device-carrying consumers who like to complete transactions with their smartphones.

The Associated Press reports that businesses across the globe are turning to mobile payment solutions to boost satisfaction among mobile customers. Some of the big-name brands include Urban Outfitters, Barney's and J.C. Penney, among others. These companies are bringing in technology that allows them to not only process payments from mobile devices, but also equip sales associates with tablets and smartphones to answer shoppers' questions and help the find the products they are looking for, the news source explains. However, just because this method may seem as though it could replace traditional cash registers and card readers, that certainly is not the case. These payment forms remain popular and will continue to be required in the future. Mobile POS solutions are just another way for brands to offer greater convenience for customers.

And while larger businesses are busy incorporating the technology, that doesn't mean that smaller retailers can't do the same. In fact, offering mobile payment options now can significantly help merchants' boost retention and loyalty among device-carrying patrons.

Some businesses may have tried to put it off for as long as possible, while others implemented the technology right away to accommodate customers, but mobile solutions are quickly making their way to the forefront of the retail industry. Now is the time for merchants to adopt systems and applications that cater to consumers who prefer to shop with their smartphones and tablets. Whether patrons browse for and purchase products through their devices while at home or bring their gadgets into brick-and-mortar locations, companies need to be prepared to offer solutions for these shoppers, as this is an effective way to boost loyalty and revenues.

Ignoring mobile can result in risks
Mobile technology could very well be the next innovation in customer service and satisfaction. For these reasons alone, retailers should not ignore these solutions and take steps now to incorporate them into their online and store operations. According to a recent study by Conlumino and eBay, the rise of 4G networks from mobile carriers is expected to result in a huge boost in mobile shopping over the next few years.

In the United Kingdom alone, the study estimates that purchases made from smartphones and tablets could jump as much as 113 percent within a year due to 4G technology. This is a trend that could be seen worldwide as well.

"Retailers today must take every chance to engage consumers, inspiring them and giving them every possible opportunity to buy and interact with their brands," stated Co​nlumino director Neil Saunders. "An omnichannel approach is key to making this happen, and with universal 4G on the horizon, retailers can't afford to stand still."

Mobile commerce rising fast
There are plenty of other signs pointing to further growth in mobile commerce, which is giving retailers more reasons to adopt the technology. Internet Retailer reports that research from Affiliate Window, which operates more than 10,000 websites, found that sales made through mobile devices will skyrocket this year. These results stem from the fact that Affiliate Window processed its millionth mobile purchase in March. This milestone in 2012 took as long as August to reach, highlighting the increasing importance of mobile solutions for retailers.

By offering mobile POS systems, applications and even deals and discounts redeemable through smartphones and tablets, merchants can significantly boost customer retention and loyalty, as well as bring in more revenue.

Besides ensuring customers are satisfied, keeping track of inventory and managing finances, another task that retailers must face is preventing theft from their stores. This can come from customers, employees and sometimes even accidental errors. However, solutions like retail management software can help merchants save significant amounts of revenue.

The New York Times reports that many businesses are turning to technology to prevent theft and fraud, mainly among employees. Some are logging information about workers' illegal activity into databases that are shared throughout the industry, meaning that any infractions among staff members are made public to professionals within the sector, further reducing the chances that these employees will be hired by other merchants.

This approach has its good and bad points, but other solutions are available to pinpoint instances of theft, not only by workers but customers as well. Retail management software helps businesses keep track of their inventory and gives them insight into when merchandise goes missing. This is especially important, notes LP Magazine, as 78 percent of shrinkage, or theft, comes from shoppers and employees. Having the technology in place to catch illegal activity saves companies revenue.