Before the web was commonly available in the store, sales data only reached the central server the following day. Furthermore, because there was no guarantee that overnight transmissions would work, they had to be monitored daily, requiring a number of manual operations. Yet deploying an in-store IT solution was expensive and time-consuming. Now, using permanent internet access together with improved software, information can be shared in real time across the entire network. Store activity, such as monitoring sales or inventory and controlling fraudulent transactions can be managed online. A cash register can be set up in just a few clicks. Here is an overview of the best practices that will enable users to get the most out of these new technologies.
By Vassili Daronnat, Retail Consultant, Cegid
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