Microsoft IoT Case Studies in the Retail Sector

 

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Summary

Using Microsoft Azure, Mesh Systems designed the system to facilitate high-scale, IoT deployment to almost any type of device. The architecture continuously ingests telemetry data from light fixtures for storage and both real-time and historical analysis in the cloud, surfacing the information in a customized web portal. Remote maintenance staff will immediately know which bulbs need to be replaced, and property managers can develop more effective, long-term lighting strategies. The platform helps property managers to improve operations across multiple locations.
Technology embedded in automated espresso machines connects to the cloud, providing insight directly into each machine’s performance and maintenance needs. From the remote BUNN control center, service technicians have real-time insight into machine performance through a web-based portal that provides device software management, configuration, interactive dashboards, notifications, and reporting.

Devices can, and are, playing an important role in supporting JJF Food’s technological bridge. Orders are easier for restauranteurs with a mobile app that has the same predictive features as their web site and call center. Another mobile app allows drivers to know what, when, and where to make deliveries – simply by using their smartphone. Bluetooth technology is making a big difference for temperature-controlled deliveries. “Many of our products are temperature controlled, so we’ve added Bluetooth sensors to our trucks and via the drivers phone we receive real-time data for our whole fleet. The customers don’t see this, they just know that their orders arrive fresh every time,” says JJ Food’s COO.

Kwik Chek’s new technologies connect its customers’ mobile phones to gas pumps, store point of sale (POS) terminals, loyalty programs and more, while integrating existing store infrastructure and software that tracks inventory and fuel. The resulting connected system is transforming operations for the Texas-based chain, vastly improving reliability and efficiency of its processes and staff. It’s also enabling unprecedented insight into customer habits and desires, resulting in improved sales and inventory for Kwik Chek, and happier and more loyal customers across its 39 store locations in Texas and Oklahoma.

CCA wanted to create a more differentiated brand experience for consumers. CCA implemented a solution from TKM9 and Microsoft based on Windows Embedded, Kinect for Windows, and Microsoft Azure that uses digital signage to create an immersive experience at point-of-sale locations.

  Chilis & Ziosk

Using Power BI and Office 365, restaurants like Chili’s are able to make changes quickly based on trends and guest feedback gathered through them. To tap into the actions diners take on the devices – and the sequence they take them in – Ziosk and Microsoft partner Artis Consulting used Azure HDInsight, the Microsoft Hadoop in the cloud service. They built Power BI dashboards that restaurants can customize so that they can make the most of the data they’re gathering.

All 400 service vehicles in the WASH fleet have GPS tracking tied into their computer systems, which has dramatically driven down fuel costs, thanks to better tracking and routing – to make sure the closest tech gets to a given location first. And, through Azure Machine Learning, customers are getting better service, too. Azure ML gives the company the power of predictive analytics, which leads to making sure techs are carrying the right parts.

Vengo Labs developed a next-generation vending machine that engages consumers with immersive media in unusual locations, thanks to its small form factor and versatile single-board computer powered by Windows Embedded 8.1 Industry. More than 200 Vengo machines now serve customers across New York City, Chicago, and Boston, with rapid growth expected to continue.

Some #IoT Case Studies in the #Retail Sector https://t.co/BTkCQApcne pic.twitter.com/Kb7KnZjbIO

— ..S..h..i..S..h.. (@5h15h) May 5, 2015