Posts by Tom Call

In 1947, America’s first self-service gas station opened in Los Angeles. The concept of customers doing it themselves has come a long way since then, as we have all experienced with grocery stores, banking, and other types of business-to-consumer interactions. But self-service is no longer strictly reserved for the general public. Take self-service IT. Self-service IT solutions are precisely what the label implies: employees can resolve IT issues on their own rather than involving IT…  MORE

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In the 21st century, retailers are constantly adapting to new market conditions by implementing ever-innovative technology. One primary – and very recent – example is how brands are adjusting to the rise of the “deskless” employee. Deskless workers are just that – they spend most of their time on their feet, interacting with customers and products. And retailers are counting on them more this year, as we continue to see a post-pandemic increase of in-store…  MORE

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When it comes to technology, success isn’t strictly determined by the products you create or the services you offer. Competitive advantage, and the profits that come with it, often stems from the strength of your business partnerships. But developing a valuable alliance requires more than a handshake over coffee. Many estimates show that nearly 70% of strategic partnerships end in failure. That’s due to unrealistic expectations, misaligned objectives, and lack of precise communication. Don’t let that…  MORE

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Retailers are all-in with the latest technology. They’re automating pricing, inventory management, checkout, and other tasks. And by definition, they’re also reducing the amount of workers on the floor. At the same time, store operations have become more complicated. Online fulfillment and pickup and delivery are now common aspects of retail. It’s all well and good. That is, until both small and large stores see a rise in theft, poor customer service, and lackluster brand…  MORE

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It’s not what you sell, but rather the data you use to sell it. That’s the winning sales philosophy for today’s retailers. Indeed, your actual product offering plays only a small role in modern day retail success. From grocery chains to clothing outlets, leaders understand that the higher the quality of data, the better the customer insight, market analysis, and potential for profits and growth. And the secret sauce is mastering how to engage consumers…  MORE

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No technology leader can be blamed for feeling a bit overwhelmed with how to handle artificial intelligence (AI). On one hand, there’s the prevailing message that AI will not only fundamentally change business, it will completely transform how we live. On the other hand, CIOs and CTOs must not be blinded by any amount of potential hype. Those competing mindsets are causing many leaders to employ a pragmatic approach to AI deployment strategy. According to…  MORE

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Executives understand that cutting edge technology and innovative business strategies can only take the enterprise so far. To truly reach your organization’s goals, there must be healthy, cooperative relationships where everyone works closely together for the common good. But in 2023, perhaps no relationship is more crucial than the one between CEO and CTO. The reason is simple: No matter how your enterprise has to adjust to the market from a service or product delivery…  MORE

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Until recently, corporate storytelling was solely the responsibility of marketers and branders, as well as sales and communications professionals. But today, IT leaders must also be more effective at persuasive communication. Storytelling allows CIOs and CTOs to effectively convey their perspectives with their partners and other C-level colleagues. As stronger communicators, technology professionals don’t only convince corporate leaders to see their viewpoints – they can influence key business decisions that will affect all areas of…  MORE

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