Should I convert to mobile PoS or keep a degree of fixed PoS?

Mobility can empower store staff with product knowledge

It’s undisputable that mobile devices are changing the face of retail, delivering a host of features, such as mobile PoS, extended product ordering and CRM, but the challenge for retailers is getting the right balance of mobility and fixed PoS touch points, says Roy Patrick, multichannel product director at Micros Systems.

Mobility brings with it many benefits. It can motivate store staff to interact with customers, improve customer service and as a result increase sales.

But can it deliver the same impact across all retail sectors with varying target audiences?

Shoppers between 18 and 35 years old are not impressed with the stereotypical in-store service that we have become accustomed to, Patrick says. “They want retailers to be both inventive and joined- up with their offering and expect store staff to be helpful, knowledgeable and equipped to interact in the way the consumer wants.”

Mobility has the power to motivate store staff and add value by arming them with accurate stock data, product knowledge and customer information.

But retailers must consider their entire target audience and cater to all needs.

One thing all customers have in common is that they desire a better experience but individual needs differ, so achieving equilibrium and relevance is imperative.

Other areas to contemplate are the location and size of the store and value-added services offered in each store – the use of multiple devices may be an option.