The Situation

True shop revenue is limited by physical capacity. Lack of tech opportunity for smaller businesses who are met with widely costly options that meet more than what is really needed for small businesses. For Independents to compete against larger brands, wider spread applications diluted their brand image and message by comparing apples for apples rather than the reality of them being very different to the larger commercial players. Lack of variety in engagement choice with stores simple order and collect models need to go beyond selection and transaction to encourage consistent use and loyalty. A “projection platform” that works for the independent business and a projection of their image is required as much as a platform that offers new revenue streams. Recognised by the BBC in an online article (see project URL)

The Task

To build a simple frictionless end to end pre order & collect workflow that is focused on #supportLocal brands only. An application that is mobile payment ready, that removes the “fluff” around the user experience to focus on efficiency from “load to go” to meet the social challenges of a pandemic and the logistics challenges for small businesses. In addition a fully compatible POS solution with options for 3rd party integrations, tills, internal management systems in order to support longer term “stickiness” and growth.

The Action / Approach

Completed full story board and further iterations to determine feature set for MVP

Prioritised full roadmap and sequencing of delivery

Completed full UX/UI design iterations of mobile app for MVP both low & high fidelity

Sourced full stack mobile team to suit required skill set and resource profile

Managed delivery and implementation of feature set, supporting questions of implementation and priority

Managed both iOS store & Apple play store launches, loading respective apk’s and preparing marketing material & content

Created full MVP marketing material, content, brochureware site & social media position for launch. Sourced relevant PR providers to help raise awareness

Sourced clients from scratch and sold idea to project value and benefit of the app proposition and financial benefits.

The Result

All below achievements within the first 4 months:

Supported businesses to remain open during the COVID pandemic offering additional revenue channels

600+ mobile app downloads

10 stores onboarded

Maximum £2,000 per month revenue on sales

Various commentaries in media campaigns including a BBC mention for supporting local businesses. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-53171031

Whitelabel version available for businesses to benefit directly

Relevant Business Perspectives

Practice