‘Digital Transformation’ is a phrase we are coming to hear about more and more. Digital transformation is basically the process of using digital technologies to create new — or modify existing — business processes, culture, and customer experiences to meet changing business and market requirements. This reimagining of business in the digital age is digital transformation.
One area of digital transformation pertinent to the current pandemic is self-checkouts and kiosks and with this is the normal process of acceptance by the user. One store we were recently talking to considered becoming either 100% Self-checkouts with no tills or 100% tills with no Self-Checkouts. After much discussion decided that they needed both because the customers the only use, the tills would no longer visit the store if it was 100% Self Checkouts and vice versa. The simple fact is that some people are challenged by technology, and some embrace it, some distrust technology, and others welcome every advancement. However, retail outlets must think of their valued customer base and cater to all.
A recent survey provides evidence that self-checkout technology has become more established and accepted in the mainstream, giving value to both consumers and retailers alike. Shoppers appreciate the convenience and speed of self-checkouts, and retailers see the value to customer experience and an increased bottom line.
When shoppers were asked what they liked about self-checkout, the top three responses were convenience (44%), simplicity (40%), and speed of self-checkout technology in comparison to cashier assisted lines (32%)
When asked where shoppers would most like to have access to Self Checkouts, the top responses were supermarkets (64%), mass merchants (49%), discount department stores (34%), DIY stores (34%), and convenience stores (32%)
There is no doubt that Self Checkouts are here to stay. When five till operatives can be replaced by just one operative monitoring a bank of Self Checkouts, there is a substantial cost saving in a very competitive market and an all-important return on investment.
Do you need help with your Digital Transformation? The team here at Sci-Net have over 25 years’ experience in helping business embrace such changes.
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