Holiday Tech Tips for Small Businesses
Retail sales are expected to hit record highs this holiday season. Since a large number of these sales will take place online, it is important for retailers to be prepared for any issues that might arise this holiday season. Read on to learn three tips for small retailers that are simple to implement and sure to keep you on your technology “A” game.
1. Beware of the dreaded downtime. Everyone knows that humans are not perfect, and neither is the technology that we create. Therefore, anticipate and prepare for downtime, because even high-tech companies like Google experience it once in a while.
- If your company has its technology onsite, start pressure testing the system now. Do your servers have the resources to deal with spikes of website traffic and sales at a given time?
- Most small to medium-sized retailers have outsourced technology. If it’s not too late, discuss an SLA (service level agreement) to see if the company can offer you the least amount of downtime possible. Try to adjust the contract, even if temporarily, or hire a new company if it’s time to renew the contract anyways.
2. Security. Security is on everyone’s mind, whether you are the retailer or the shopper. October 1, 2015 was the deadline for businesses to install the EMV chip technology, which stores user data in an integrated circuit instead of the magnetic chip, in order to cut down on fraud. This also shifts the burden of responsibility for accepting fraud to the retailer instead of the previous responsibility holders, banks and financial institutions. Businesses could get any fraud charges that occur if their machines do not have the EMV chip technology installed. This can hurt smaller businesses more so than the big businesses, since bigger retailers have easier access to the latest in technology trends.
- For small businesses who can’t fit the EMV chip technology into their budget, or who missed the Oct 1 deadline, all is not lost. Along with pressure testing any technology based systems, perform a penetration test to find the most common security holes and patch them up prior to the busy season!
3. Real-Time Analytics. Retailers should certainly take advantage of real time analytics in order to keep up with the demands of consumers, allowing you to stay on top of your inventory this holiday season.
- Whatever software you use, be sure to utilize their reporting function to the best of your ability. There is an endless amount of data out there – the company that uses it to their advantage will come out on top this holiday season!
The holiday season doesn’t have to be a hassle – call us to learn how we can help with all of your retail packaging needs so you can stay focused on the customer!