Hardware and Software in the M-commerce and E-commerce world

Being aware of new and old hardware and software can help a small business act like a large firm. Using proper software and hardware can make the difference in how you handle customers, their information, and how a business markets itself.

1. Customer Care Cards -- Basically these are scannable, refillable, and swipeable cards with magnetic strips. These cards can be stored on one’s smart phone. Much like the “Gold card” for starbucks, these cards are used to keep track of loyal customers and to reward them with perks like free refills. Also, these cards act as Personal information managers which store data on purchasing habits and customer info. (1)
2. Self Serve POS-- Point of Sale systems allow People to order things for themselves. Using a touch screen and graphics--venues can have customers placing their orders and paying without ever having to talk to a human(2). Additionally, these systems can be hooked up to mobile apps so customers can order online or from their phones.
3. Display Monitor- The Self Serve POS would be nothing without proper display. Allowing information to be displayed on a monitor or on one’s phone allows for m-commerce and E-commerce to function.
4. Online Call Center-- Websites like grasshopper.com allow small business to appear large and professional. One can set up a calling number, a personalized answer, different lines for people to call and extensions for employees. Additionally, grasshopper will save all your incoming messages and turn the call data into usable output for managers and employees. All this information can be accessed online or on their phones with a mobile grasshopper app.
5. Applications- Applications allow small businesses to enter into the smart phone market. This helps a business sell, buy, and inform its customers over the internet and on their phones. It also makes a business seem legitimate and professional.
6. Tablet Computers- In some restaurants, tablets have replaced menus and are being given to waiters to show pictures of food. Additionally, they can display purchase orders, calories in a meal, and quickly add customer information to a client database.