Mobility Hits The Supply Chain

December 2012 Integrated Solutions For Retailers

By Doug Brown, marketing manager for supply chain, Honeywell

Mobility has already made its way from the consumer to the in-store associate. Now it is making its way into the hands of the DC/warehouse associate.

Retailers face an interesting challenge with regard to their supply chains. The point of sale is in the midst of seismic change as a result of consumerization from mobile devices. Forward-thinking retailers are equipping their store associates with the same smartphone operating systems they use outside of work.

This has several benefits: accelerated training, improved employee satisfaction, and most importantly, enhanced customer engagement. Associates, using a consumer-grade device docked into an enterprise sled, are able to scan loyalty program codes from a shopper’s cell phone and offer customized recommendations.