[{"_id":"project-settings","settings":{"translateMetaTags":true,"translateAriaLabels":true,"translateTitle":true,"showWidget":true,"isFeedbackEnabled":false,"fv":1,"customWidget":{"theme":"dark","font":"rgb(255, 255, 255)","header":"rgb(0, 0, 0)","background":"rgba(0, 0, 0,0.8)","position":"right","positionVertical":"bottom","border":"","borderRequired":false,"widgetCompact":true,"isWidgetPositionRelative":false},"widgetLanguages":[{"code":"es-LA","name":"Español (América Latina)"},{"code":"fr-CA","name":"Français (Canada)"}],"activeLanguages":{"fr-CA":"Français (Canada)","es-LA":"Español (América Latina)","de":"Deutsch","en":"English"},"enabledLanguages":["de","en","es-LA","fr-CA"],"debugInfo":false,"displayBranding":true,"displayBrandingName":true,"localizeImages":false,"localizeUrls":false,"localizeImagesLimit":false,"localizeUrlsLimit":true,"localizeAudio":false,"localizeAudioLimit":false,"localizeDates":false,"disabledPages":[],"regexPhrases":[],"allowComplexCssSelectors":false,"blockedClasses":false,"blockedIds":false,"phraseDetection":true,"customDomainSettings":[],"seoSetting":[],"translateSource":false,"overage":false,"detectPhraseFromAllLanguage":false,"googleAnalytics":false,"mixpanel":false,"heap":false,"disableDateLocalization":false,"ignoreCurrencyInTranslation":false,"blockedComplexSelectors":[]},"version":4620},{"_id":"en","source":"en","pluralFn":"return n != 1 ? 1 : 0;","pluralForm":2,"dictionary":{},"version":4620},{"_id":"outdated","outdated":{"#L drives revenue growth and excellence with iQmetrix":1,"#How TELUS retailer":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\"><span ljsid-0-0=\"\">73</span> %</strong> des clients":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\"><span ljsid-0-0=\"\">71</span> %</strong> des acheteurs":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">96</span> % des consommateurs":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\"><span ljsid-0-0=\"\">88</span> %</strong> des consommateurs":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\"><span ljsid-0-0=\"\">74</span> %</strong> des consommateurs":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">47</span> % ont changé de marque":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">46</span> % des consommateurs":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">56</span> % des consommateurs":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\"><span ljsid-0-0=\"\">90</span> %</strong> des consommateurs":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\"><span ljsid-0-0=\"\">66</span> %</strong> des acheteurs":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">54</span> % des consommateurs":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">73</span> % des consommateurs":1,"#by Renee Mohr, Product Marketing Manager, iQmetrix on Feb <span ljsid-1=\"\">18</span>, <span ljsid-3=\"\">2020</span>":1,"#by Stephanie Boyle on Apr <span ljsid-1=\"\">22</span>, <span ljsid-3=\"\">2020</span>":1,"#by John Lund of Entresmart, LLC on Nov <span ljsid-1=\"\">20</span>, <span ljsid-3=\"\">2024</span>":1,"#by Joannah Connolly on Dec <span ljsid-1=\"\">11</span>, <span ljsid-3=\"\">2024</span>":1,"#iQmetrix to Showcase Intelligent Commerce Operating System and Catalyst Innovation at DTW Ignite <span ljsid-1=\"\">2026</span>":1,"#by Joannah Connolly on Apr <span ljsid-1=\"\">16</span>, <span ljsid-3=\"\">2025</span>":1,"#by Joannah Connolly on Mar <span ljsid-1=\"\">5</span>, <span ljsid-3=\"\">2025</span>":1,"#Pricing":1,"#Emir Aboulhosn, CEO of NetLync, who <a ljsid-1=\"\">presented on the topic at SummitX</a>, told iQmetrix, <span ljsid-3=\"\"></span><span ljsid-5=\"\">„</span>We are inevitably moving towards eSIM because both Apple and Google are obsessed with the customer experience, and they want to ensure any transfer between devices is seamless.”":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Embracing Hybrid Retail Models:</strong> Recognizing that the customer journey often spans both online and offline channels, retailers need to embrace hybrid models that provide a seamless and integrated experience. This could involve offering options like online ordering with in-store pickup or home delivery, allowing customers to choose the most convenient method for their needs<span ljsid-2=\"\">25</span>. Chris Smith, Vice President of Channel Sales and Experience at TELUS, <a ljsid-4=\"\">emphasized the importance</a> of catering to customers who prefer a hybrid purchasing process, saying, <span ljsid-6=\"\"></span><span ljsid-8=\"\">„</span>From a carrier perspective, we need to evolve the business model to be an enabler of the retail channel rather than a competitor with online-only deals. Otherwise, we’re creating barriers, and we’re not optimizing for the customer who wants a hybrid purchasing process.”":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Creating Engaging In-Store Experiences</strong>: To remain competitive against online channels, brick-and-mortar retailers need to offer unique and engaging experiences that draw customers in. This could involve incorporating innovative technologies, interactive displays, or personalized consultations that go beyond a transactional exchange. At a SummitX panel discussion, <a ljsid-2=\"\">Jake Miller highlighted</a> the need for speed, convenience, and customization in the in-store experience, saying, <span ljsid-4=\"\"></span><span ljsid-6=\"\">„</span>That’s where everything is pushing right now.” Jason Ellis of <span ljsid-8=\"\">3</span> Park consultancy added in the same panel discussion, <span ljsid-10=\"\"></span><span ljsid-12=\"\">„</span>There’s also an opportunity for us to figure out how we can make it more convenient on the time management side for the customer.” Additionally, retailers could explore incorporating additional services like device repair, as Apple has successfully done, to create a more comprehensive and valuable customer experience.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Providing Expert Guidance and Support</strong>: Despite the abundance of information available online, many customers still value the expertise and personalized assistance that knowledgeable sales associates can provide. This is particularly relevant in the wireless industry, where devices and service plans can be complex, and customers often seek guidance in making informed decisions. Jen Gilman, Director of Sales Operations at Cox Communications, <a ljsid-2=\"\">observed at SummitX</a>, <span ljsid-4=\"\"></span><span ljsid-6=\"\">„</span>Customers don’t want to be sold. They want to feel you’re a trusted partner. So being able to sit down at a table and have a conversation with them and have a connected experience is really important.”":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Fraud Detection and Security:</strong> As technology advances, so do the methods employed by fraudsters. AI is becoming indispensable in mitigating fraud risks. Jake Miller, Chief Operating Officer at BeMobile, <a ljsid-2=\"\">warned at SummitX</a>, <span ljsid-4=\"\"></span><span ljsid-6=\"\">„</span>Fraud is going to be a bigger and bigger threat, especially with the rise of AI.” But the risks created by the rise of AI, due to increasing fake accounts and bot activity, can also be combatted with AI. AI-powered systems can detect suspicious patterns, identify fake accounts, and protect both customers and retailers from evolving security threats.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Product Lifecycle Management and Demand Forecasting:</strong> AI can address the constant retail challenge of accurately forecasting product inventory needs. Trish Sale, iQmetrix’s Vice President of Product, <a ljsid-2=\"\">highlighted this at SummitX</a>, saying to the Industry Address audience, <span ljsid-4=\"\"></span><span ljsid-6=\"\">„</span>Overstocking and understocking are major issues that affect telecom retailers. I don’t need to tell you that — you live it every day”. AI-powered solutions can analyze vast amounts of data from the supply chain to predict product demand with greater accuracy, ensuring retailers have the right products available at the right time and place.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Customer Lifecycle Management:</strong> In an era where capturing consumer attention is paramount, AI offers powerful tools for personalized marketing and optimized customer experiences. Iqbal Habib, Head of Data and Analytics at iQmetrix, <a ljsid-2=\"\">said at SummitX</a>, <span ljsid-4=\"\"></span><span ljsid-6=\"\">„</span>We are at a pivotal moment in marketing… Advancements in data and AI have transformed the way we capture attention.” AI-driven customer lifecycle technology enables retailers to tailor their messaging, promotions, and engagement strategies based on customer preferences and behaviors, fostering stronger relationships and loyalty, and increasing revenue.":1,"#John Lund, AI expert and CEO of Entresmart, <a ljsid-1=\"\">took the audience at SummitX</a> through how this technology can vastly increase operational efficiency and support new business strategies within wireless retail specifically. He said, <span ljsid-3=\"\"></span><span ljsid-5=\"\">„</span>The industry is evolving fast, and with AI on your side, you can elevate your customer experience, streamline operations, and build a winning team.”":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Navigating Fraud and Security Threats</strong>: As technology advances, so do the tactics employed by fraudsters. The wireless retail industry, handling sensitive customer data and high-value devices, is a prime target. During the same panel discussion, Jake Miller stressed the importance of protecting customer data, saying, <span ljsid-2=\"\"></span><span ljsid-4=\"\">„</span>We process so much personal information on our devices, such as private photos, credit card information, and mobile banking. One local mistake can give someone access to a person’s entire life on those devices. We have to embrace the responsibility to protect our customers.” Retailers and carriers must implement robust fraud detection and prevention measures, staying ahead of evolving threats and ensuring the security of both their operations and customer information. This includes investing in advanced security technologies, training employees to identify and report suspicious activity, and collaborating with industry partners to share information and best practices.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Prioritizing Sustainability</strong>: Sustainability is no longer simply a buzzword; it’s a core value for many consumers, especially younger generations. Retailers that demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices, such as reducing waste, promoting energy efficiency, and supporting ethical sourcing, can gain a competitive advantage. In the wireless industry, this includes embracing the circular device economy by offering certified pre-owned devices, which reduces environmental impact, lowers costs for consumers, and aligns with sustainability goals. <a ljsid-2=\"\">Chris Smith highlighted TELUS’s acquisition of Mobile Klinik</a>, a multi-location repair brand, as an example of their commitment to sustainability through the circular device economy. In the same session, Jason Ellis noted, <span ljsid-4=\"\"></span><span ljsid-6=\"\">„</span>Today’s consumers expect sustainability at the core of the products they’re purchasing, and we see all the major OEMs, carriers, and retailers with set sustainability goals.” Moreover, companies with strong sustainability initiatives are more likely to attract employees who share those values, particularly among younger generations.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Addressing the Skills Gap</strong>: Finding and retaining skilled employees is a persistent challenge in the retail sector. The wireless industry, with its increasing reliance on technology and the need for knowledgeable sales associates, is particularly susceptible to this skills gap. <a ljsid-2=\"\">BeMobile’s Jake Miller highlighted the opportunity</a> to attract Gen Z workers who are <span ljsid-4=\"\"></span><span ljsid-6=\"\">„</span>money-oriented, career-minded people” and seeking alternatives to traditional college paths. However, retailers need to develop compelling narratives that showcase the earning potential and career growth opportunities within the wireless retail sector. Additionally, providing ongoing training and development opportunities, as well as recognizing and rewarding employee achievements, is crucial for both attracting and retaining top talent.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">National Retail Wireless Trends:</strong> Walmart is increasingly prominent in wireless retail, with plans to add or expand <span ljsid-2=\"\">150</span> Supercenters by <span ljsid-4=\"\">2029</span>. Of its <span ljsid-6=\"\">3</span>,<span ljsid-8=\"\">558</span> wireless retail locations, approximately <span ljsid-10=\"\">2</span>,<span ljsid-12=\"\">900</span> are now run by third-party operators such as OSL. A recent trend has been the promotion of free phones with in-store activations. Moore observed, <span ljsid-14=\"\"></span><span ljsid-16=\"\">„</span>Walmart has a very focused strategy, they’re pursuing it aggressively, and we really think that they’re winning market share. One way you can tell that is, when Straight Talk was acquired by Verizon, it had more than nine million subscribers — and where is Straight Talk sold? Only at Walmart.” On the flip side, Best Buy appears to be contracting its wireless retail footprint, with <span ljsid-18=\"\">890</span> locations, and <span ljsid-20=\"\">10</span>-<span ljsid-22=\"\">15</span> store closures expected this year. Meanwhile, Costco, Sam’s Club, and Target are increasingly key players in wireless retail.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Cablecos in the Wireless Market</strong>: U.S. cable companies, like Spectrum, Xfinity, Optimum, and Cox, have aggressively expanded their presence in the wireless market and are gaining mobile subscribers, albeit in relatively smaller numbers compared with the Tier <span ljsid-2=\"\">1</span> US carriers. They have also upgraded their retail spaces, which are prominently featuring wireless offerings, and are heavily promoting bundle discounts that combine their traditional cable and internet services with wireless plans. Jeff Moore, a leading expert in wireless retail from Wave <span ljsid-4=\"\">7</span> Research, <a ljsid-6=\"\">observed at his breakout session at SummitX</a>, <span ljsid-8=\"\"></span><span ljsid-10=\"\">„</span>Now, [cable] stores are nice looking, they have phone deals, they’re staffed well, and they’re pitching wireless very heavily — in addition to, of course, their cable and internet services and other things.” This expansion by cablecos has intensified competition and is compelling traditional carriers to innovate and enhance their offerings to maintain market share.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Rise of Specialized MVNOs</strong>: Mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) have gained traction by targeting specific customer segments with specialized offerings. Companies like Mint Mobile, known for their affordable and straightforward plans, have disrupted the market and forced traditional carriers to re-evaluate their strategies. <a ljsid-2=\"\">Jason Ellis acknowledged this trend</a>, saying, <span ljsid-4=\"\"></span><span ljsid-6=\"\">„</span>With specialized offerings coming from successful MVNOs such as Mint Mobile, I’d expect further segmentation in the carrier space in future years.”":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Focus on Multi-Product Bundles</strong>: As the lines between telecommunications, entertainment, and home services continue to blur, carriers are increasingly focusing on multi-product bundles to attract and retain customers. At SummitX, <a ljsid-2=\"\">Chris Smith explained TELUS’s strategy</a>, saying, <span ljsid-4=\"\"></span><span ljsid-6=\"\">„</span>For us at TELUS, selling a single wireless service to a customer is increasingly difficult. Our focus is on selling both a mobile and a home solution… those multi-product sales where the churn rates drop dramatically.” These bundles now extend beyond traditional offerings like TV, mobile, and home phone to encompass services like healthcare, home security, and home automation, allowing carriers to become more deeply integrated into their customers’ lives.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Improved Customer Experience:</strong> eSIM enables significantly faster activation and data transfer processes, leading to a more streamlined and convenient customer experience. Aboulhosn noted, <span ljsid-2=\"\"></span><span ljsid-4=\"\">„</span>The established model [for device purchase, activation, and data transfer] is a several-hour process. With eSIM, the entire process is much faster.” This improved efficiency frees up time for sales associates to engage with customers, and potentially upsell services or accessories.":1,"#In his keynote speech on AI, Shelly Palmer — tech consultant, author, AI expert, and Professor of Advanced Media at Syracuse University — told the SummitX attendees, <span ljsid-1=\"\"></span><span ljsid-3=\"\">„</span>You should understand the speed at which AI is advancing, and what is on the way. Before AI, we could do five-second tasks in five seconds. Last year, using AI, we could do five-minute tasks in five seconds. Today, we can do five-hour tasks in five seconds. We’re soon getting to the point where we can do five-day tasks in five seconds, and we’re going to get to five months’ worth of tasks in five seconds.”":1,"#Why is strategic scheduling important?":1,"#Fortunately, with today’s intelligence workforce management technology, telecom retailers can improve staffing to increase revenue and employee engagement — not only during the holidays but also throughout the entire year. Here’s our guide to maximizing your <span ljsid-1=\"\">2023</span> holiday retail sales with strategic scheduling.":1,"#This is great news for your telecom retail business — but with the increased demand and foot traffic that comes with every holiday season, you’ll need to find ways to maximize your profits. A key strategy for this is <strong ljsid-1=\"\">scheduling your staff strategically. </strong>Not only does this ensure your customers are always supported, but also that your team’s skills are being used in the best way possible.":1,"#In a busy holiday season, telecom retailers can use intelligence workforce management technology to improve staffing and increase revenue and employee…":1,"#Despite continuing economic uncertainty impacting overall growth, holiday retail sales are still likely to increase by <a ljsid-1=\"\"><span ljsid-1-0=\"\">3</span>.<span ljsid-1-2=\"\">5</span>% to <span ljsid-1-4=\"\">4</span>.<span ljsid-1-6=\"\">6</span>% in <span ljsid-1-8=\"\">2023</span></a>, according to Deloitte. Consumer sentiment also rose to its highest point in two years this summer, and slowing inflation means that customers are feeling hopeful and ready to shop.":1,"#iQmetrix | How to Maximize 2023 Holiday Sales with Strategic…":1,"#Book a demo today!":1,"#Interested in learning more about Shiftlab in time for the holiday season?":1,"#, using an intelligent workforce management platform can drastically improve employee engagement and retail sales. And the great in-store experience you create will keep customers loyal and coming back well into the future.":1,"#Get ready for another busy holiday shopping season.":1,"#holidays or are looking ahead to":1,"#Whether you want to implement a scheduling solution before the":1,"#If telecom retailers gave scheduling as much attention year-round as they do during the holidays, it would have a major impact on cost optimization.":1,"#Treat the whole year like the holiday season.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Reach out to college students who have worked for you in the past </strong>who are home for the holidays and could use extra cash. There will be less training involved since they’re already familiar with your products and sales process.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Temporarily switch some part-time staff to full-time,</strong> if they agree. Moving your workforce from <span ljsid-2=\"\">37</span> hours to <span ljsid-4=\"\">41</span> during holiday season scales your staffing model up by <span ljsid-6=\"\">10</span>% without adding to your January staffing overage.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">If you’re a multi-location retailer, consider the <span ljsid-0-1=\"\"></span><span ljsid-0-3=\"\">“</span>substitute teacher” model. </strong>Hire seasonal employees in a pool instead of assigning them to specific store locations. This not only gives your seasonal hires a flexible schedule with more hours, but it also helps each of your locations boost or reduce staff as needed over the holidays.":1,"#Finally, the holidays are a great time to get creative with your scheduling as needed. We’ve collected a few tips from our retail clients:":1,"#You might find it helpful to use an app, like Shiftlab, that has schedule locking and approval features, so that November and December schedules are locked down early. After that, all changes need to flow through leadership so everyone stays in the loop.":1,"#Make sure to be collaborative and include your district managers in the scheduling process, since they have their fingers on the pulse when it comes to unique staffing needs for their regions. Get them involved early to review schedules so they can identify any potential issues before they become reality for in-store staff.":1,"#An unpredictable work schedule (especially over the holidays) can be challenging for retail staff. Since employee retention is more important than ever, you want to ensure that you schedule holiday shifts as far in advance as possible.":1,"#Always be proactive, collaborative, and creative with scheduling.":1,"#Automating or streamlining time-consuming or mundane tasks for your team, or simply making their lives easier with the right tools, can make a big difference in employee engagement and retention during this busy season.":1,"#For district and store managers, using an app like Shiftlab’s <a ljsid-1=\"\">Store Pulse</a> lets them leverage real-time store data so they can identify and resolve issues quickly. From late store openings to overtime trends, managers can stay on top of what’s happening at their stores throughout the day. This real-time information enables managers to communicate more effectively, deal with operational issues as they arise, and easily make more strategic decisions.":1,"#Empower your team with tools to help streamline processes, save time, and make better decisions faster — this can go a long way in making their time with your business a positive one. For example, you can equip your team with a mobile app that lets them easily see their schedules, who they’re working with, and how they’re performing, to keep them engaged and motivated.":1,"#Retail’s famously high turnover rates have only increased over the past few years, and employee retention is more important than ever. Anything you can do to make things easier for your team will act as a retention tactic. Keeping employees satisfied and selling when your store is at peak capacity during the holidays is a huge win.":1,"#Empower your staff by setting them up with the right tools.":1,"#Retailers who use Shiftlab’s predictive forecasting are achieving scheduling accuracy of<strong ljsid-1=\"\"> <span ljsid-1-1=\"\">95</span>% and greater</strong>—thereby increasing their sales, average transaction value, and guest satisfaction scores through smarter schedules.":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">“</span>There’s a ton of data you can use to calibrate your schedules,” said <a ljsid-2=\"\">Devin Shrake</a>, founder and CEO of Shiftlab. <span ljsid-4=\"\"></span><span ljsid-6=\"\">“</span>With AI, you can draw actionable insights from that data much quicker than with traditional business intelligence techniques. Telecom retailers must use that to their advantage during the holidays and the rest of the year.”":1,"#Since historic data can’t tell you everything you need to know about future demand fluctuations, AI-driven algorithms that can learn from other schedules and stores are the key to forecasting accurately. For example, Shiftlab’s AI-driven forecasting engine uses historic sales data, recent trends, and event effects to accurately predict the labor demand for each location down to the hour.":1,"#Luckily, the rise of AI-backed solutions can help retailers take the guesswork out of forecasting to accurately predict labor demand.":1,"#With the ever-changing telecom retail landscape, it can be hard to predict demand for your stores. But despite the uncertainty, forecasting remains a critical part of creating optimized schedules.":1,"#Leverage artificial intelligence for smarter forecasting.":1,"#check the box” task this holiday season.":1,"#Whether or not you use a tool to help, empower your managers to treat the scheduling process as more than just a":1,"#Most telecom retail teams simply don’t have the time or resources to do this manually. Fortunately, advanced workforce management tools like <a ljsid-1=\"\">Shiftlab</a>, integrated with your point-of-sale and retail management software, make the process easier by doing all the analysis for you. It combines real-time point-of-sale data with time and attendance data to schedule your staff at ideal times, <strong ljsid-3=\"\">increasing profitability per employee by <span ljsid-3-1=\"\">5</span>%, decreasing downtime or wasted hours by <span ljsid-3-3=\"\">6</span>%, and boosting guest satisfaction scores by <span ljsid-3-5=\"\">15</span>%.</strong>":1,"#By analyzing all of this information, you can more easily schedule the right person for the right shift at the right time. You can avoid under- or over-staffing, and provide the best customer experience possible during the busiest time of the year.":1,"#Real-time reporting on KPIs (store level and C-suite level)":1,"#Store location data and employee & management info":1,"#Individual employee sales data":1,"#Store-specific forecasting and trend data":1,"#Creating a performance-based schedule means considering a lot of different factors:":1,"#Many managers schedule to employee preferences or treat the scheduling process like a mundane operational task. But performance-based scheduling enables managers to think more strategically about how to position their team for success during the holidays — giving them the tools to maximize performance and make decisions based on real-time business trends.":1,"#is the answer.":1,"#Performance-based scheduling":1,"#To take full advantage of the increase in foot traffic and provide a great guest experience during the holidays, you want to ensure you have your best people working the busiest shifts.":1,"#Use performance-based scheduling to boost profitability.":1,"#Tips for Strategic Scheduling":1,"#In addition, creating a great shopping experience can make a huge difference in your sales, competitiveness, and customer loyalty — <a ljsid-1=\"\"><span ljsid-1-0=\"\">54</span>% of consumers</a> would stop doing business with a brand after one bad experience.By putting together the best possible schedule, you can proactively tackle these problems, improve your guest and employee experience, and increase your revenue.":1,"#Strategic scheduling for retail simply means putting together an optimal scheduling plan using a combination of store and employee performance data, real-time updates, and time-saving tools like AI, automation, and mobile apps.The holiday season is an extremely busy time for everyone, from your managers to your floor staff to your customers. Increased demand and store traffic, short-staffing, high turnover rates, and scheduling complications (due to time off, sickness, etc.) all contribute to a challenging few months for retail owners and managers.":1,"#There are many important dates, including deadlines, to remember, but we marked the key ones to keep top of mind:":1,"#First things first: mark your calendar. The key is not only to start early but to plan ahead (read, not starting and filing in April).":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">1</span>. Make a plan and stick to it":1,"#iQmetrix | 5 Strategies to Get Through Tax Season":1,"#5 Strategies to Get Through Tax Season":1,"#We interviewed resident finance expert, Theresa VanderVeen, for financial tips and tricks to help wireless retailers get through tax season.":1,"#RQ tracks inventory purchases, reconciliation transactions, sales data, is cloud-based and has Quickbooks and other integrations to help manage every facet of retail management. Get the whitepaper to learn more.":1,"#Let’s dive in!":1,"#But what if there was a solution out there that fit your business, prepared you for the future of your industry, and didn’t cause a headache when it came time to rollout?":1,"#When you’re a busy retailer, trying to meet (and exceed) the rising expectations of today’s modern consumer, changing your retail technology is likely low on your priority list. Not only can you not afford any downtime with your retail software, you also don’t want to take your employee’s time away from selling.":1,"#Want more?":1,"#From a retailer’s perspective, less busy Tuesdays are a great time to set up operational practices inside their stores of completing the pesky operational tasks done, such as organizing the storage room, processing return merchandise authorization (RMA’s). Consider creating a checklist and holding your team to it making sure they’re accountable.”":1,"#We asked Teresa what the most important takeaway for retailers is to become, and stay, more organized:":1,"#Then you have time to give yourself a chance to do the other things you like doing. If you do start to feel overwhelmed, or your numbers are off, sometimes it’s as simple as getting up, walking around, having a conversation about something different for <span ljsid-1=\"\">20</span>, <span ljsid-3=\"\">30</span> minutes it gives your mind the space to come back and look objectively for the thing your trying to find.":1,"#It only takes one hour per week.":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">5</span>. Set up a routine":1,"#Read more <a ljsid-1=\"\">here </a>to learn how to protect yourself and your business.":1,"#We interviewed resident finance expert, Teresa VanderVeen, to get important planning and financial tips, tricks, and strategies that are guaranteed to help you, and your wireless business, get through tax season.":1,"#So, how can retailers protect themselves, and their stores, from fraud?":1,"#Scammers target people who are vulnerable and one may think it’s impossible to fall for a scam, but fraud organizations are highly skilled. Not only do they target vulnerable people but also those who are under pressure during a busy time in the workplace.":1,"#Turns out, it wasn’t:":1,"#Teresa runs a catering business in her spare time and spoke to how her husband received an email from one of their small, local vendors stating they did their invoice wrong, that money was owed, and must be repaid immediately. He knew to take pause, reach out directly to the vendor to see if the notice was legitimate.":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">4</span>. Beware of scams":1,"#Take the same thing and apply it to your accounting software. Ask yourself, how can I use this to help me manage my assets and the things I need to manage long term?":1,"#Popular opinion: filing taxes is everyone’s least favorite thing to do, perhaps only bested by having a tooth pulled. Yet, like it or not, it’s that time of year again: Tax filing season officially began on January <span ljsid-1=\"\">27</span><sup ljsid-2=\"\">th</sup>. And before you know it, April <span ljsid-4=\"\">15</span><sup ljsid-5=\"\">th</sup>, the deadline to file, will be here.":1,"#For example, think about the equipment that you purchase for your stores. Whatever system you’re using for managing your business, you should be able to create those large purchase items and check them into your system.":1,"#There are tons of different accounting management technologies out there, from Quickbooks to simple mileage counting apps that can help you streamline processes come tax season. Teresa often challenges retailers to think about how they can use existing accounting software outside its intended purpose.":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">3</span>. Think differently about how to make technology work for you":1,"#What big purchases did you make last year that need to be written off?":1,"#Did you get back all the money you were supposed to from RMAs?":1,"#Are your inventory counts accurate, so you aren’t paying tax on inventory that isn’t in your store?":1,"#Are all of your transfers where they need to be?":1,"#Are your purchase orders are up to speed?":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">2</span>. Make sure everything is closed out":1,"#Most importantly, set a cadence.":1,"#March <span ljsid-1=\"\">2</span><sup ljsid-2=\"\">nd </sup>is the deadline for farmers and fishermen to file <span ljsid-4=\"\">2018</span> income tax return (Form <span ljsid-6=\"\">1040</span>) and pay any tax due. However, you have until April <span ljsid-8=\"\">17</span><sup ljsid-9=\"\">th</sup> to file if you paid your <span ljsid-11=\"\">2019</span> estimated tax by January <span ljsid-13=\"\">17</span><sup ljsid-14=\"\">th</sup> <span ljsid-16=\"\">2020</span>.":1,"#February <span ljsid-1=\"\">28</span><sup ljsid-2=\"\">th</sup> : Deadline for businesses to submit forms <span ljsid-4=\"\">1099</span> and <span ljsid-6=\"\">1096</span>, if filing on paper. These documents relate to business transactions that aren’t covered by W<span ljsid-8=\"\">2</span> (anything that falls outside of tips and wages – hiring an independent contractor, etc.). If filing electronically, the deadline is March <span ljsid-10=\"\">31</span>.":1,"#February <span ljsid-1=\"\">15</span><sup ljsid-2=\"\">th</sup> <span ljsid-4=\"\">2020</span>: Deadline for businesses to give annual statements to recipients of specific payments made in <span ljsid-6=\"\">2019</span>. Business can use the appropriate version of Form <span ljsid-8=\"\">1099</span>. Form <span ljsid-10=\"\">1099</span> can be issued electronically with the consent of the recipient.":1,"#April <span ljsid-1=\"\">30</span><sup ljsid-2=\"\">th</sup>: CRA requires most business owners submit their tax returns by April <span ljsid-4=\"\">30</span><sup ljsid-5=\"\">th</sup>, or six months after their fiscal year if they observe a non-calendar fiscal year.":1,"#February <span ljsid-1=\"\">24</span><sup ljsid-2=\"\">th</sup>: Employees must be sent a T<span ljsid-4=\"\">4</span> information slip by the last day of February following the year to which the information slips apply.":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">5</span> Strategies to Get Through Tax Season":1,"#+ Current Users":1,"#Learn More About iQmetrix Partners":1,"#As <em ljsid-1=\"\">Rethink Retail</em> reports in a July <span ljsid-3=\"\">2021</span> article, <span ljsid-5=\"\"></span><span ljsid-7=\"\">“</span>Motivating employees can range from helping them to relieve the monotony by exploring new ways to engage with customers, providing training, job-sharing, and delegating responsibilities, supporting continuous learning and professional development.”":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">3</span>. Train Staff Effectively — and Scalably":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">2</span>. Keep Employees Engaged and Motivated":1,"#It’s incredibly important that your staff are upskilled as efficiently as possible to help them do their jobs. After that, it’s essential to ensure staff continue to learn and grow in order to keep them motivated — and to have this growth potential in place to attract new recruits in the first place.":1,"#When you’re operating a lean workforce, you need to ensure your best associates are on shift at the right time, and that scheduling is transparent and optimized. Not only does that make sense for your retail operations, but it also creates a better working environment and helps reduce staff frustration and burnout when shift scheduling is consistent and effective. What’s more, it’s important to be able to offer generous vacation days and schedule flexibility — as Part <span ljsid-1=\"\">1</span> of this blog shows — without losing productivity.":1,"#to work at your store, you now need to ensure you keep those employees happy so there’s no better option out there and your staff attrition rate remains low.":1,"#However, in a busy store it can be hard for managers to find the time to give feedback. That’s where an employee engagement tool can help. <a ljsid-1=\"\"><strong ljsid-1-0=\"\">Arcade</strong></a> is a workplace engagement and motivation tool that boost productivity for wireless retailers, with gamified incentives and rewards tailored to the motivational needs of different levels of employees. Using the integration with iQmetrix’s retail management solutions, you’ll have insights from all the programs you use to select activities that help keep your staff happy and engaged, and move your business forward. Check out the <a ljsid-3=\"\">Arcade iQmetrix partner page</a> with its webinar recording on how to solve employee engagement problems.":1,"#Retail Recruitment and Retention, Part 2: 5 Tips to Keep Employees…":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">1</span>. Optimize Staff Scheduling":1,"#iQmetrix | Retail Recruitment and Retention, Part 2: 5 Tips to Keep…":1,"#<a ljsid-0=\"\"><strong ljsid-0-0=\"\">Upduo </strong></a>is a unique peer-to-peer training platform that applies best practices in learning and coaching to bring effective learning and coaching to organizations. Through a simple mobile platform, more experienced staff mentors and top performers coach newer associates on a wide range of sales skills via one-on-one video coaching sessions. Check out the <a ljsid-2=\"\">Upduo iQmetrix partner page</a>, including a webinar on how to use performance data to accelerate learning, and read the <a ljsid-4=\"\">iQmetrix blog on how it works</a>.":1,"#In a labor crunch like the one the entire retail industry is experiencing right now, it’s vital to use every tool at your disposal to ensure store associates aren’t getting lured away. Having used our":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">5</span>. Solve Issues Management Effortlessly":1,"#Although this is great advice, it can be hard to put into daily practice. Fortunately, we have not only five top tips on how to do this, but also five tools that can make each a reality. iQmetrix clients benefit from a massive ecosystem of partner integrations, many of which offer amazing workforce management and employee engagement platforms that can help you do just that. Even more partners offer integrations that make store employees’ jobs easier — such as Marketing tools and upselling opportunities — therefore making it more enjoyable and satisfying to work at your store, but we’ll stick with the workforce-specific integrations for now.":1,"#In a world where there are more and more devices, accessories, rate plans, add-ons, and promotions to sell, you need tools to ensure your staff are always up to speed. <a ljsid-1=\"\"><strong ljsid-1-0=\"\">Smart Access’</strong></a> performance management platform helps retailers improve store performance, including meeting sales targets and delivering consistent quality service, via personalized how-to guidance on workers’ mobile devices. With the iQmetrix integration, clients can gain more sales per shift and higher customer satisfaction with rapid distribution of new product knowledge and updates. Smart Access delivers performance analytics that offer real-time visibility into operational and skill gaps to help retail operators understand where to focus to improve. Check out the <a ljsid-3=\"\">Smart Access iQmetrix partner page</a> for stats on how this increases staff retention.":1,"#To keep your staff in your employ, it’s crucial they are motivated and happy. Jonathan Bergman, the CEO of Hire Well Now who iQmetrix interviewed for Part <span ljsid-1=\"\">1</span>, said, <span ljsid-3=\"\"></span><span ljsid-5=\"\">“</span>The number one piece of information we get back from our thousands of exit interviews of retail staff is lack of feedback from their supervisors. They didn’t understand how they were doing or how they could improve.”":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">4</span>. Improve Store Associates’ Performance":1,"#Part <span ljsid-1=\"\">1</span> advice to attract top talent":1,"#Want to find out about other iQmetrix integrated partners? Learn more below.":1,"#One thing that can demotivate employees in a flash is the poor handling of issues and less-than-optimal communications practices. <a ljsid-1=\"\"><strong ljsid-1-0=\"\">Intelocate</strong></a> is a one-stop issue-resolution and task-management tool designed to provide full visibility into the issues, tasks, and communications across stores, departments, and vendors. No matter what issue shows up, and no matter how it is handled, logging the issue or task into Intelocate enables retailers to track, measure, and understand the full lifecycle of each issue at each store, and massively improves communication. With its integration into iQmetrix’s retail management system, this offers a full picture that helps retailers improve and prevent problems from arising — making their stores a much happier place to work. See the <a ljsid-3=\"\">Intelocate iQmetrix partner page</a> for use cases and testimonials.":1,"#<a ljsid-0=\"\"><strong ljsid-0-0=\"\">Shiftlab</strong></a>, which is integrated into iQmetrix solutions and is part of the company ecosystem to which iQmetrix belongs, offers all this and more. Its data-driven workforce scheduling platform uses sales data to optimize shift schedules and massively enhance productivity. Check out the <a ljsid-2=\"\">Shiftlab website</a>, and their <a ljsid-4=\"\">webinar recording</a> on using this data-driven tool to improve staff management.":1,"#Buy Now, Pay Later gives approved customers the flexibility to pay for devices or accessories over time. With a quick eligibility check and a seamless checkout flow through Remote Pay, retailers can offer a modern financing experience that can increase conversion and lift revenue.":1,"#Buy Now, Pay Later":1,"#Buy Now, Pay Later can unlock higher conversion, larger order value, and greater revenue by offering customers an easy and flexible way to complete their purchase. Offering BNPL as a payment option can help telecom retailers close more sales while delivering a smooth checkout experience.":1,"#Increase conversion and boost revenue":1,"#Orchestrate every store, every channel, and every customer moment, elevating experiences, unlocking new growth, and driving measurable efficiency at scale.":1,"#AI has reshaped how commerce runs. The question is whether your architecture can run with it.":1,"#The Intelligent Commerce Operating System is how we deliver on both.":1,"#Our mission is to transform the way the world buys, sells, and activates devices.":1,"#Our purpose is to create great experiences.":1,"#For more than <span ljsid-1=\"\">27</span> years, iQmetrix has operated at the centre of telecom commerce. Our deep expertise and sector-wide relationships give us an overarching perspective on what works and what’s coming next.":1,"#Why iQmetrix is built for this.":1,"#Proven — Decades at the centre of telecom commerce, now evolved.":1,"#Interconnected — Direct integrations into telcos, activations, and partners.":1,"#Intelligent — AI embedded in how the system runs, not bolted on after.":1,"#Orchestrated — One system coordinating the entire experience, end to end.":1,"#It is both the system of record for retail and the orchestration layer for commerce.":1,"#An Intelligent Commerce Operating System is the foundational layer that orchestrates every action, decision, and transaction across digital and physical commerce.":1,"#The category, defined.":1,"#Commerce Operating System?":1,"#What is an Intelligent":1,"#Built to be extended. Built to be consumed by AI. Built for agentic retail.":1,"#From the interfaces your people use every day, to the orchestration that connects every journey, to the intelligent agents embedded in every business domain — all powered by a data layer that turns every transaction into actionable intelligence.":1,"#Five composable layers, wrapped by event-driven orchestration — powering every transaction, every channel, and every interaction in telecom retail.":1,"#Commerce flows. Data moves. Experiences scale.":1,"#Intelligent Commerce replaces brittle, one-off integrations with a platform built to evolve. It gives telcos and retailers the freedom to move faster today, while staying ready for what comes next.":1,"#AI acts on connected data, driving what happens next":1,"#Stores operate with less overhead and more precision":1,"#Launches that took six months take weeks":1,"#Customer journeys complete without breaking, digital to physical":1,"#The only path to modern telecom commerce.":1,"#Why Intelligent Commerce Matters":1,"#An Intelligent Commerce OS replaces fragmented tech stacks with a unified architecture designed to evolve.":1,"#Every layer of cost grows — TCO, CAC, and cost to serve":1,"#Customer and employee experiences suffer":1,"#Innovation becomes risky":1,"#Data becomes unreliable":1,"#Transactions slow down":1,"#When systems aren't intelligent:":1,"#Experience is not something you add at the end. It is the outcome of how your systems work together.":1,"#AI on top of fragmentation doesn't fix the tech stack, it just makes the cost grow faster.":1,"#AI can't be bolted on":1,"#These systems were designed to track the business, not to run it. And they show their age every day, across every channel.":1,"#Platforms that can’t support AI":1,"#Manual workarounds and swivel-chair workflows":1,"#Brittle one-to-one integrations and architectural debt":1,"#Disconnected systems and unreliable data":1,"#The longer it runs, the more it costs.":1,"#Telcos and retailers are still running on systems built for a different era. Every transaction is recorded, but nothing is truly understood. Every workflow exists, but nothing is orchestrated.":1,"#POS, CRM, ecommerce, consumer apps, inventory, and activations all stitched together over decades.":1,"#Legacy tech stacks track the business. They don't run it.":1,"#iQmetrix Intelligent Commerce Operating System":1,"#Start Now":1,"#Intelligent Commerce OS orchestrates every action, decision, and transaction across digital and physical channels so telecom commerce runs as one continuous, intelligent system. Built for AI to act, architecture to support it, and execution in real-time.":1,"#The agentic foundation modern telecom commerce is built on.":1,"#Introducing the":1,"#by PayBright on Jul <span ljsid-1=\"\">27</span>, <span ljsid-3=\"\">2020</span>":1,"#by Devin Shrake, Co-Founder, Shiftlab on Sep <span ljsid-1=\"\">27</span>, <span ljsid-3=\"\">2021</span>":1,"#iQmetrix Store of the Future with iQ Storefront Telecom POS":1,"#iQ Storefront Telecom POS for Automatic Syncing":1,"#iQ Storefront Telecom POS for Carriers":1,"#Focus on Customers with iQ Storefront Telecom POS":1,"#Sell Sooner with iQ Storefront Telecom POS":1,"#iQ Storefront Point-of-Sale for Telecom Retail":1,"#iQ Storefront is modular and built for easy integration. This gives telecom retailers full flexibility to tailor iQ Storefront to their ecosystem while keeping everything consistent and scalable.":1,"#How does iQ Storefront integrate with other software vendors?":1,"#iQ Storefront unifies all orders in one system, allowing staff to manage online and in store purchases, pickups, returns, upgrades, and accessories in a single workflow. With real time inventory and integrated payments, it delivers a consistent omnichannel telecom experience including buy online, pick up in store (BOPIS), click and collect, return anywhere, and curbside pickup.":1,"#How does iQ Storefront support omnichannel selling?":1,"#iQ Pay paired with iQ Storefront showcases that our next generation of products are going to be geared towards addressing real pain points in the retail space, while also ensuring our clients can always offer the best experience for both their customers and their employees.":1,"#iQ Storefront uses iQ Pay for secure, seamless payment processing. iQ Pay is an embedded, all-in-one payments solution designed to evolve with your business, giving users a streamlined, single-vendor experience where payment processing, support, hardware, and reporting are all consolidated — simplifying payments management and reducing operational friction. It also enables a mobile-first payment hardware option, supporting businesses’ mobile retail strategies.":1,"#How does iQ Storefront work with iQ Pay and why is this important?":1,"#Yes. RQ served telecom retail well for many years, but iQ Storefront is its modern successor, redesigned for today’s mobile, omnichannel retail experience and future innovation.":1,"#Is iQ Storefront replacing RQ Retail Management?":1,"#iQ Storefront is purpose built for telecom and delivers fast checkout on any device, real-time inventory, integrated payments, and a seamless online to in store flow. Direct carrier integrations make iQ Storefront the smartest way to run wireless retail because users enter information once and the system handles the rest, cutting errors and saving time instantly. With built-in AI that automates routine work and surfaces insights for users, it helps teams move faster, serve customers better, and grow sales while keeping operating costs low.":1,"#Why is iQ Storefront considered the best Telecom POS?":1,"#iQ Storefront FAQs":1,"#Step Into the Future of Wireless Retail":1,"#iQmetrix Unveils Its Next Generation Interconnected Commerce Retail Suite: iQ Storefront, iQ Hub, and iQ Pay":1,"#iQ Storefront Press Releases":1,"#Automatically sync sales, inventory, and rebate data with your back-office from every location to support smarter, faster decisions.":1,"#Sync Everything":1,"#One platform means fewer vendors, less training, and smoother day-to-day operations so your team spends more time selling and less time troubleshooting.":1,"#Run Smoother":1,"#When technology gets out of the way, reps can focus on the person in front of them. iQ Storefront helps them create those memorable in-store moments that keep customers coming back.":1,"#Focus on Customers":1,"#Launch new locations, roll out products, and onboard employees with less effort. iQ Storefront is simple and everything reps need is in one place, so they can start selling sooner and with confidence.":1,"#Sell Sooner":1,"#Why iQ Storefront is the best POS for Telecom Retail":1,"#Seamlessly integrate with carrier systems to automatically pull subscriber data from recent activations and account changes, optimizing operations across your POS.":1,"#Whether for workforce management, marketing, or beyond, bring the tools you rely on right into your sales flow.":1,"#Embedded Partners":1,"#Quickly receive shipments, transfer stock, and complete counts to stay on top of what you have.":1,"#Simple, straightforward, and secure. Track every cash in and out to keep your team accountable and your tills balanced.":1,"#With iQ Pay, get one provider, predictable fees, and mobile-first design that’s built for telecom to make every payment fast, secure, and simple.":1,"#Integrated Payments":1,"#Start fast with a pre-loaded catalog of products, pricing, and promotions that stay up to date automatically.":1,"#Ready-to-Sell Catalog":1,"#Handle every sale whether it’s in-store, online, or pickup from one screen.":1},"version":4620}]