In a new technology initiative, Staples has launched a beta test available on its mobile iOS app that allows consumers to send photos of back-to-school lists via the company’s Easy System and, as a result, prompt shoppers to populate their shopping carts with the products listed.
Users can pick up merchandise on their lists within 48 hours of selection and application, according to Staples. Once they populate their lists, customers can choose to buy immediately or customize items in their carts for purchase priority. They also can choose whether to pick up orders in store or to have their orders shipped.
The Easy System employs computer vision, artificial intelligence, crowdsourced data and mobile interfaces to enable a chat-based experience, which also makes it easier for customers to ask Staples about changes or service questions. The beta test is in effect for select customers and has applications beyond back-to-school shopping, as businesses can use the feature to snap a photo of office or breakroom needs to get product re-ordering suggestions.
“We listened to customer feedback about their limited time for back-to-school shopping and delivered an experience utilizing the power of mobile,” said Faisal Masud, evp/e-commerce and customer experience, Staples. “We know parents are busy and the process of back-to-school shopping, especially if there are multiple children involved, can be time-consuming. This new experience enables us to do the hard work on behalf of our customers.”
