Trends, Technology and the Modern Retail Store with Guest Jim Sermonet, Zebra

Brett Cooper and Lee DeHihns explore the findings in the recent report, “Boosting Productivity of Frontline Workers with Modern Mobility”.  This report was conducted by VDC Research, surveying enterprises using mobile computing devices such as rugged Android devices for their frontline workforce.

Findings discussed:

• Shared workforce device model for frontline workers
• Device and app landscape and how it affects productivity 
• Workforce device accountability (checkout, device tracking) 
• Seasonal or temporary workforce and its effect 

This podcast provides valuable insights into the current trends and future directions of enterprise mobility, particularly in how technology is being used to empower frontline workers and improve operational efficiency.

Key points discussed include:

1. Evolution of Mobile Devices: The transition from basic, rugged devices to sophisticated Android-powered tools, and how this has enhanced productivity and efficiency in various industries.
2. Application Stack for Frontline Workers: The importance of collaboration and communication tools, line-of-business applications, human capital management (HCM) apps, and mobile device management (MDM) platforms.
3. Employee Experience (EX): The focus on improving the frontline worker's experience through better technology, including user-friendly interfaces, access to necessary applications, and efficient communication tools.
4. Future Trends: Speculation on future developments, particularly the potential impact of AI in further enhancing the utility and efficiency of mobile devices in enterprise settings.
5. Advice for Companies: Emphasizing the importance of starting with a business analyst perspective, focusing on the business case and user needs before integrating technology solutions.

BlueFletch explores the pros and cons of iOS devices and Android devices in the enterprise environment, and discusses insights and actionable strategies in deciding which workforce device platform is right for your enterprise.

• Different device hardware platforms
• Customization in Android vs iOS
• Consistent Custom User experience
• Availability of accessories

Clint Larson from Liberty Systems joins BlueFletch to discuss RFID technologies and their use in the supply chain, including manufacturing and distribution.

Jim Sermonet, Zebra Retail Solutions joins BlueFletch in discussing challenges retailers are facing in terms of retail engagement, inventory, and compliance, and how technology can help today's modern store in both retail environments and warehouses.

Matt Dermody of Manhattan Associates joins BlueFletch in a discussion on mobile device management systems and the way devices are managed today. Matt discusses how Google has approached the management of Android devices, how device ownership and control is affecting management, and other MDM/EMM advances.

Special guest Brian Gore from Ivanti Wavelink joins Brett Cooper to discuss technology in the modern warehouse; everything from telnet and green screens to modern IoT trends affecting IT in the warehouse.  

In this episode, BlueFletch will explore the perennial debate of ‘Buy vs Build’ when it comes to enterprise mobile software, looking at 5 important considerations to help make your decision.

Customization
Does your business require bespoke software or could pre-built solutions be the right fit?

Time-to-Market
Weigh the potential delays of building software from scratch against the quick implementation of ready-made solutions.

Support and Maintenance
Assess the benefits of vendor assistance versus managing an in-house team.

Importance of Intellectual Property Rights
Discuss scenarios of retaining full ownership or navigating licensing agreements.

Cost-Efficiency
Is building your software a strategic investment or is buying a more economical option, considering development time and resources

In this episode, Brett and Richard talk about the effects AI is having on personalizing content and six things to be cognizant of when trying to customize and personalize enterprise apps for the workforce. 

Ivanti executive Greg Henry joins the BlueFletch podcast to discuss the supply chain, warehouse, and technology for an efficient warehouse workforce.