Complete guide to digital tools used in stores: the role of phygital and best solutions

The digitalization of physical stores is a growing trend. With rapidly evolving technologies and changing consumer expectations, it is important for retailers to adapt and integrate digital tools into their stores.

This is not only about modernizing equipment, but about a complete transformation of the customer experience.

In this article, we'll explore why and how physical stores are adopting phygital, which are the best digital tools used in stores, and how these technologies improve the customer experience.

Discover our software solutions to properly manage your physical and online stores.

Why use digital tools in physical stores?

Importance of innovation

Innovation is the key to survival and prosperity in the retail trade (retail). Consumers are constantly looking for shopping experiences smoother, faster, and more personalized.

Digital tools make it possible to meet these needs by offering innovative solutions that improve operational efficiency and customer engagement.

Changing consumer expectations

With the rise of online shopping, consumers expect physical stores to offer similar or even greater benefits. They are looking for interactive experiences, of personalized services And a increased convenience.

The digitalization of stores meets these expectations by integrating technologies that facilitate and enrich the shopping experience.

What is phygital?

Definition of phygital

The Phygital Is the fusion of physical experiences and Digitalis. It's about using digital tools and technologies to improve the customer experience in stores.

This can include interactive devices, mobile applications, and other tools that create continuity between worlds. online and offline.

History and evolution

The concept of phygital emerged with the rise of mobile technologies andinternet of things (IoT). Early phygital applications included interactive kiosks and touch screens in store.

Today, the trend has evolved to include more advanced technologies like augmented reality and artificial intelligence.

The advantages of digital tools used in stores 

Improving the customer experience

One of the main advantages of digital tools used in stores is the improvement ofcustomer experience. Digital technologies make it possible to personalize interactions, reduce waiting times and provide real-time information.

For example, interactive kiosks can help customers quickly find products or get personalized recommendations.

Increased sales and loyalty

Digital tools can also boost sales by making it easier to shop and offering personalized promotions.

Additionally, by improving the overall experience, they encourage customers to come back, thus increasing loyalty.

Examples of digital tools in stores

Interactive terminals

Interactive terminals are phygital devices commonly used in stores.

They allow customers to search for products, check available inventory, and even place online orders for items that are not in stock.

Electronic labels

Electronic labels replace traditional price tags and allow prices to be updated in real time.

They can also show additional product information, such as customer reviews or current promotions.

Mobile apps and QR codes

Mobile applications and QR codes are other examples of digital tools used to improve the customer experience in stores.

Apps can offer features like product localization, personalized promotions, and loyalty programs.

QR codes, on the other hand, allow customers to quickly access additional information or participate in interactive contests.

The best digital tools used in stores

Inventory management software

Inventory management software allows retailers to track and manage their inventory effectively.

They provide real-time visibility into stock levels, which helps avoid stockouts and optimize restocks.

Data analysis tools

Data analysis tools are essential for understanding customer behaviors and optimizing sales strategies.

They allow data from a variety of sources to be collected and analyzed, offering valuable insights to personalize the customer experience and improve store performance.

Contactless payment solutions

Contactless payment solutions, like NFC terminals and mobile wallets, make the payment process easier and faster.

They also offer a more secure payment experience, which is crucial in the current context.

PIM, DAM, and MDM

Product Information Management (PIM), Digital Asset Management (DAM), and Master Data Management (MDM) systems play a crucial role in the digitalization of retail outlets.

PIM (Product Information Management) allows you to centralize and manage all product information. This includes descriptions, technical specifications, images, and prices. One PIM well-integrated ensures that all product information is consistent and up to date across all sales channels, which is critical to providing a smooth and seamless customer experience.

DAM (Digital Asset Management) helps stores manage, organize, and distribute their digital assets such as images, videos, and marketing materials. One DAM system effective ensures that all teams, from sales to marketing, have access to the right resources at the right time, improving operational efficiency and brand consistency.

MDM (Master Data Management) centralizes the management of corporate master data, including product, customer, and supplier data. One MDM system robust makes it possible to guarantee the integrity and quality of data across the organization, which is crucial for making informed decisions and offering a personalized customer experience.

How do you choose the right digital tools?

Identify specific needs

Before choosing digital tools, it is important to identify the specific needs of your store. What are the challenges you are facing? What are the expectations of your customers? An accurate assessment of these needs will help you choose the most appropriate solutions.

Evaluate compatibility and integration

Ensure that the digital tools you are considering are compatible with your existing systems and can be easily integrated.

Good integration is essential to ensure a smooth implementation and avoid interruptions in your operations.

Impact of the use of digital tools on the customer experience

Personalization and engagement

Digitalization makes it possible to personalize the customer experience at a new level. Through data analysis, stores can offer targeted recommendations and promotions, increasing customer engagement and satisfaction.

Reduced buying friction

Digital tools help reduce buying friction by making the process faster and easier. Customers can easily find what they're looking for, get detailed product information, and make payments effortlessly.

How to implement a phygital strategy?

Steps to follow

To implement a phygital strategy, start by defining your goals and identifying the necessary digital tools.

Test solutions on a small scale before deploying them at scale.

Make sure to train your staff and gather regular feedback to adjust and improve your strategy.

Best practices

Best practices include gradual integration of technology, ongoing staff training, and constant attention to customer feedback.

It is also important to monitor performance and adjust strategies based on the results obtained.

The challenges of using digital tools in stores

Costs and return on investment

Equipping with digital tools can represent a significant investment. It is vital to properly assess the costs and to predict a realistic return on investment.

Rigorous financial planning and continuous performance evaluation are essential to ensure that investments are profitable.

Staff training and adoption

The success of digitalization also depends on adoption by staff. It is important to train and support them in the use of new tools so that they can offer an optimal customer experience.

Future trends in store digitalization

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) will play an increasingly important role in the digitalization of stores.

These technologies make it possible to better understand customer preferences and predict customer behaviors, offering even more personalized experiences.

Augmented and Virtual Reality

Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are emerging trends that can transform the shopping experience.

They allow customers to visualize products in their real environment or to have immersive experiences in store.

Conclusion

The integration ofdigital tools used in stores physical is an inevitable and necessary evolution to meet consumer expectations.

By integrating its digital solutions, retailers can improve the customer experience, increase sales and build customer loyalty. However, it is important to plan and manage this digital transformation well to maximize its benefits.

By adopting a phygital approach, stores can create unique and memorable experiences that combine the best of the physical and digital worlds.

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FAQS

What is phygital?

Phygital is the combination of physical and digital experiences in retail, aimed at improving the customer experience by integrating digital technologies in stores.

What are the advantages of digitizing stores?

Benefits include improving the customer experience, increasing sales, increasing customer loyalty, and optimizing operations through better inventory and data management.

What digital tools are commonly used in stores?

Commonly used tools include interactive kiosks, electronic labels, mobile applications, contactless payment solutions, and inventory management and data analysis software.

How do I choose the right digital tools for my store?

It is important to identify the specific needs of your store, to assess the compatibility of the tools with your existing systems, and to consider the costs and the potential return on investment.

What are the challenges of digitizing stores?

Challenges include initial costs, staff training and adoption, and the need to maintain a consistent and quality customer experience.