Computers have been around in retail for quite some time now. But as with any form of technology, change frequently occurs due to rapid innovation and competition. Due to the widespread adoption of touchscreens on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, industries are turning to touchscreen technology as the default input device. Here’s how the adoption of touchscreens is transforming the retail sector.
1- Improved Accessibility
Both customers and employees with physical disabilities, including visual or hearing impairment, historically have had difficulty obtaining or discharging services. With touchscreen displays, the visually impaired can zoom in or zoom out a text to their liking. Correspondingly, hard-of-hearing users can tap through options to get their desired service. Moreover, businesses can cater to foreign clients by integrating different languages into their displays. The customers can then switch to their language on the displays.
2- Promotes Self-Service and Reduces Labor Costs
With touchscreen technology, customers can access information easily without the need for a human guide. For example, with touchscreens in restaurants, customers can access menus and place orders in real-time, reducing the waiters needed. Moreover, businesses can then process the data and push notifications to their clients on these devices. This method was critical during the COVID-19 pandemic when the government enacted strict physical distancing regulations.
3- Maximizes Productivity
The use of touchscreen systems such as at the point of sale (POS) has promoted faster navigation of software by employees compared to using the traditional mouse and keyboard setups. As well, new users do not need to master complex keyboard shortcuts to get going. Correspondingly, due to their familiarity with smartphones, customers find touchscreen displays more straightforward than mechanical systems.
4- Promotes Mobility
Workers can now carry touchscreen devices to their operations without worrying about other input devices such as mice or keyboards. Similarly, customers can sign order forms remotely using e-signatures or fingerprints on touchscreen tablets or other devices.
5- Promotes Security
Owing to the advances in touchscreen technology, people can now successfully verify their identity biometrically through fingerprints. Businesses can now secure their employees’ workstations using fingerprint technology. In addition, customers can use the touch screen to add a second layer of fingerprint security during the payment process.
6- Enables 24/7 Operation
Like using chatbots on the web, clients can now easily access services 24 hours a day from a business using interactive digital signage. Users can interact with apps, bots, or even remote customer service on these machines. Places with an extensive volume of customers which run 24/7, such as car parks, train stations, and airports, greatly benefit from touchscreen displays.
7- Reduces Operational Costs
Touchscreen devices occupy less space than traditional computer setups as they do not require mice, keyboards, or even system units. They also utilize less power and are cheaper to buy and maintain than traditional systems. Lastly, as seen above, they lead to reduced costs in hiring employees.
Touchscreens are the instruments of the future. Adopting touchscreens into your operations will give your business a competitive edge by extending operations and reducing expenses.