Retail IT

Retail organisations such as Marks and Spencer, Tesco's and John Lewis depend on a large array of IT systems and infrastructure to maintain the business and retail competitive advantage. In a time where multiple channel are critical, connecting systems and delivering a wide portfolio of information systems is very important. Information systems will range from the e-commerce site, which must integrate with inventory systems, through electronic point of sales (EPOS), enterprise resource planning (ERP), warehousing, logistics, and procurement. Not only do systems need to connect inside the company, but also the retailer needs to connect effectively to suppliers for which IT systems are key. There is clearly an increasing role for apps in retail.

Tasks

Select a particular major retail organisation.

Question 1. Describe their strategy and current operations.Explore the retail systems the company uses. Create a systems map to trace how these systems connect together.

Question 2. To what extent are the systems built in-house or provided by IT suppliers. Where possible identify the IT suppliers. How were the systems procured and implemented?

Question 3. Explain how the systems are supported and what types of organisation and processes are required.Identify key problems and issues facing retail IT. Suggest the technology and business trends which might affect retail IT in 2017.