Episys and the drive to Omni-channel

I had a chance to meet with the folks at Episys and came away impressed with their technology. For those not immersed in the retail world, omni-channel has been a buzzword for some time.   In short, retailers have recognized that the buying experience needs to be consistent across physical and virtual worlds. The consumer may explore online, visit the store, and while there compare using a mobile device. They might order online and pickup in the store, or purchase online and return through the store. The only way to ensure consistency in pricing and messaging is with a single unified back end that supports multiple channels. Episys does this nicely from the home office out to the virtual channels and the physical channels down to the actual signage in the physical store.

There’s a lot of measurable value here.

Start with a better buying experience leading to increased sales. Add the value of reduced pricing and marketing mistakes. Now include the increase in productivity for the marketing teams that have a single way to push information through all channels.

A future benefit is the ability to build on the capability and react to changes in the market. For instance, when the Red Sox win the World Series this year, Home Depot (an Episys client) could have an immediate sale on Fenway Park green paint with an option to order online and pick up in the store. For retailers, who all exist on thin margins, this rich customer experience is easily accomplished with Episys. For customers, it’s a less frustrating buying experience with greater options.