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The Electronic Queuing Revolution

Bill Roberts
Author: Bill Roberts
Posted on: April 24th, 2012

Electronic QueuingIs there a person on the planet who enjoys waiting in line? Not only is waiting in line a waste of time, it can also raise the ire of customers—especially when they get in the wrong line and watch as several people who arrived after them get served first. Spending time in line can also reduce impulse buys.

Many of the world’s largest companies are combating this problem by installing a digital variation of the old “now serving customer number #45” system. Using that system, a customer would take a ticket with a number on it then wait for one of the attendants to call their number. Using the latest checkout lane systems, companies like Marshall’s organize their customers into a single line then call the next customer using a “call forward” system.

5 Ways to Fail at Digital Signage

Bill Roberts
Author: Bill Roberts
Posted on: March 14th, 2012

ways to fail at digital signageHaving designed numerous digital signage projects from in-store kiosks to digital-out-of-home (DOOH) displays, we’ve compiled a list of the most common implementation mistakes companies make.  Usually, we’re involved early on in a digital signage project.  As a result, we’re able to “begin with the end in mind” and, using a flexible and scalable setup, ensure that the project delivers the powerful communications benefits of digital signage and maximum ROI.

  1. Budget – The fastest way to fail at a digital signage project is to under-budget and over-expect.  Your budget should be commensurate with the desired project outcome.  Often the desired result involves more robust hardware and software technologies.  In addition, it’s important to budget for maintenance based on the life expectancy of equipment, such as replacement monitors, etc.

Network Cabling Installation Helps Retailers Optimize Wireless Performance

Bill Roberts
Author: Bill Roberts
Posted on: March 14th, 2012

wireless deviceExplosive growth of wireless device use is enabling innovative new solutions for retailers and their tech hungry customers.  From wireless table-top kiosks in restaurants to wireless grocery store checkout options, businesses rely on the wireless network to enable a pleasant and secure user experience.  However, retail environments must consider a number of network cabling installation factors that can ensure an integrated and unique customer experience.

Network Cabling Installation: Are You Wired for Wireless?

Bill Roberts
Author: Bill Roberts
Posted on: January 31st, 2012

Even in a wireless environment, network cabling installation is important—not only for the devices but also the data that is transferred to and from the wired and wireless networks. Datatrend experts have identified five key cabling installation areas to consider when rolling out your wireless network.

1.       Secure your network. Consider a DMZ (also known as a perimeter network) to protect your wired LAN but understand what users will be doing on the DMZ.  For large file transfers, a DMZ and a wired Ethernet can significantly improve transfer speeds, but security can be compromised despite the fact that a DMZ is designed to provide an additional layer of security.  Consider additional wireless security—authentication and encryption schemes (See point #3).  If you’re providing guests wired access, then consider a designated Ethernet guest port that bypasses the corporate LAN and routes to a guest LAN using authentication.

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