Can you relate to the stress of opening a new store? How about the stress of a technology refresh for every store all at the same time? The coordination of a million moving parts with a dozen different suppliers and contractors—opening a new store is stressful in so many ways. Whether I was opening a new store or one of our 100+ seasonal popups, the challenges were always the same when it came to technology.
I remember stacks of boxes sitting all over our POS labs and store operations. The reality was that my stack at the time was a network, POS system, mobile devices, and all the peripheral stuff. It was nowhere near as complicated as it is today. Yet we had to hope for so many things to happen perfectly, knowing we were just preparing for the guarantee of running into unexpected issues. All we could do was brace for the first phone call.
Retailers today are experiencing exponentially more challenges as they attempt to configure, integrate, and deploy a high volume of new technologies. They are navigating complex integration processes, a lack of system standardization, resource constraints, legacy systems, cost overruns, and security concerns—among other obstacles. For a more streamlined, scalable, and cost-effective configuration and integration process, organizations need expert support. The Connection Technology Integration and Distribution Center (TIDC) is well-positioned to provide that support. With an unwavering level of commitment to customer success, we design completely customized and tailored solutions to address these key challenges.
As a business leader, juggling the day-to-day operations is challenging enough. Adding in large scale projects can be an overwhelming process. Connection’s Store-in-a-Box Services have transformed the entire store opening and technology refresh process. The TIDC in Wilmington, OH is the one-stop shop for procurement, imaging, kitting, deployment, and depot services.
I can’t count the number of times I experienced things like:
- Stacks of devices all over the office waiting for configuration and shipping
- Billing complexity nightmares with products coming from a dozen different suppliers
- Late store openings because equipment was missing or not working when expected
- Contractors losing pallets of materials for a store opening or remodel
- Employees saying they never received items you know for a fact were delivered
Connection Store-in-a-Box solutions start with our Quality-as-a-Mindset™ (QaaM™) methodology that empowers all employees to take ownership of quality. We provide every member of our team with the autonomy and tools needed to pursue continuous improvement, eliminate defects, and deliver the best possible client experience. By integrating QaaM™ protocols across all operations, adopting Lean methodologies, and holding ourselves accountable to world-class metrics, the TIDC ensures every client receives a flawless solution and enjoys an exceptional experience from start to finish.
What exactly can our Store-in-a-Box solutions deliver for you?
- Procurement, Provisioning, and Imaging: A one-stop shop for purchasing and preparing your devices for successful deployment
- Deployment Services: Cost-effective solutions to deploy and refresh equipment, including Program Management, Site Surveys, Technician Management, and Dispatch
- Hot Swap and Depot Services: Advanced Exchange, Reverse Logistics, Repairs, In/Out Warranty, Authorized OEM Repair
- ITAD: Achieve sustainability objectives through recycle, resale, and disposal; services include Preparations, Asset Management, Logistics, and Coordination
The technology complexity required to achieve success in retail is growing every day. Rely on a trusted partner with the expertise required to make your business a success.
Brian Gallagher
Brian is the Retail Strategy & Business Development Director at Connection. Brian joined Connection in 2016 as the Retail subject matter expert (SME) after leading National Store Operations teams for more than 20 years. Brian has a deep understanding of today’s Store Experience and Customer Engagement solutions requirements and works collaboratively with customers and partners to create complete business solutions to drive customer engagement and revenues. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling with his wife and cheering on the Cleveland Indians.
