TJ Hughes is using a communications system from Vodat to distribute task information to its 50 stores.

The Retail Back Office system was deployed after TJ Hughes implemented a Vodat broadband wide area network.

The system provides instant messaging and workflow functionality. It also supports store activities and administration such as pricing and ticketing, promotions, merchandising, starters and leavers, and emergency procedures.

TJ Hughes Watford store manager Dave Golder said that the system has improved his productivity. “My Retail Back Office diary is probably the most helpful business tool I have. I receive head office instructions at a certain date that have to be completed at a certain time, this has let me get on with the business of selling rather than filling in forms,” he said.

The central operations team can send messages to all stores simultaneously, rather than spending four hours preparing and sending paper communications.

Once messages have been sent, the team can view them and see whether they have been actioned. This has proved especially valuable when dealing with emergency and compliance issues.