Not only does CRISP automate these activities, it merges them into a single realtime integrated store/chain management system. It creates a store-level enterprise system with realtime reporting and controls.

The implications for owners and managers can be dramatic. Click to see a representative ROI.

Visibility into operations is improved so management can drill down (See Weekly P&Ls) on areas most in need of improvement . Gap Management techniques can be used to methodically build value. Diamond Shoppers are identified so they can be presented with optimum value propositions by integrating Customer Relationship Management and Category Management. Deals are brought under control and measured by impact on a chain’s Diamond Shoppers.

Enterprise systems are installed by integrating CRISP software with general purpose hardware. The software runs on inexpensive PC’s connected to scanners, scales and other point-of-sale equipment. CRISP can drive 40 or more checkout lanes in busy supermarkets while simultaneously:

• Updating in-store inventory
• Verifying & managing shelf labels
• Managing multi-tiered consumer programs
• Running management reports
• Controlling remote access for managers
• Distributing electronic products
• Managing deals
• Checking in deliveries
• Transmitting credit/debit card authorizations
• Verifying check authorization
• Automatically reordering products.

CRISP systems are highly scalable. The software is modular. It is tailored to individual store needs by filling-in simple menus.

Small grocers may buy systems without such features as General Ledger and Frequent Shopper at attractive prices. Features may be added later by activating the appropriate software modules.

CRISP permits as many as 25,000 user sites to be integrated into a single system with multiple processors. This means MicroNEX can offer senior chain managers the ability to tie far-flung operations together via satellite, lease lines, RF links, and standard phone lines.

The CRISP product family includes chain management software which links multi-store chains together to perform centralized price updating, inventory control and other chain-wide functions.

It sets-up the underpinnings needed to offer Internet services. See Vegetables and Vodka on the Internet. And it lets chains boost margins and build traffic by offering financial and other digitally deliverable products at checkout lanes.

Hardware used by CRISP is available from numerous sources. More than three manufacturers typically exist for each type of equipment needed. Equipment is available from stocking distributors on short notice negating the need for MicroNEX or its customers to invest in hardware inventory. New users often reduce their initial investment by using existing equipment.

Although MicroNEX does not manufacture hardware, it has an assembly line to efficiently perform integration. Engineering drawings, procedures, management software, and personnel are in place so that assembly can also be performed by third party firms, or by supermarkets themselves. Part numbers and serial numbers of purchased equipment are automatically tracked to ensure quality control, facilitate field service, compute full life cycle costs, and exercise supplier warranties.

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