Mobile compute for frontline teams has its benefits: more productive associates, better communication, and timely access to key information. But making the switch isn’t always straightforward. Whether it’s device management, training time, or high costs, a full hardware overhaul can feel out of reach for many retailers.
In this post, we explore common barriers to adopting mobile compute and how a hybrid approach can help retailers modernize their communication strategy without the added complexities.
Barriers to modernizing in-store communication tools
Upgrading in-store communication tools is a big step for retailers, but there are a few things to consider before making the switch:
- Cost of implementation
The upfront cost of switching to mobile compute can be significant, especially for retailers with large teams. Between purchasing new devices, software, ongoing maintenance, and training, expenses quickly add up.
- Training and adoption
Introducing new tools requires time and resources for training, which can be difficult to manage when frontline workers are already stretched thin. Training sessions may slow down service, and there’s always a risk of mistakes as employees adjust to new tools.
Not all employees will adapt at the same pace, either. Some may struggle more than others, particularly when new tools differ significantly from the ones they’re used to. This takes time and resources, which can be tough to allocate when business is busy.
- Device management
Managing a mobile device strategy is no small feat. Whether using a bring-your-own-device (BYOD) approach or providing each employee with a store device, there’s a lot to consider. From establishing proper sign-on processes (SSO, shared device mode, etc.) to ensuring security standards are met and sensitive data is protected, device management is complex. This becomes even trickier when scaling across multiple locations, teams, and countries.
A hybrid approach
Upgrading your communication strategy doesn’t need to mean replacing every system in your store. Many retailers are opting for hybrid models that combine mobile devices with the tools their teams already rely on, like two-way radios.
A hybrid approach allows retailers to modernize communication without taking on a full-scale hardware overhaul. Rather than introducing entirely new devices, solutions like SYNQ’s voice AI suite (comprised of Air Traffic Control and AI Radio Agent) transform existing two-way radios into AI-powered tools that can directly interact with mobile devices.
With the voice AI suite, frontline workers can:
- Enable seamless, bidirectional communication – Convert physical inputs into radio notifications and vice versa, creating streamlined communication between customers, associates, and leadership.
- Manage tasks with voice commands – Claim, manage, and complete tasks with simple voice commands.
- Perform AI-powered queries – Hands-free access to real-time store data like stock levels, store hours, or general information via Open AI or internal APIs.
- Automatically escalate critical events – Use AI to flag urgent issues like "theft" or "fire," instantly notifying leadership for quicker response times.
- Collect data insights – Turn everyday radio chatter into actionable data insights to optimize workflows and create an audit trail of what happened in a given store on a given day.
- AI-powered transcription and reporting – Transcribe and analyze all radio traffic, providing a record for post-incident reviews or exception-based reporting.
By integrating two-way radios with digital devices, the voice AI suite bridges the gap between traditional communication tools and modern workflows. Mobile-equipped managers and specialists stay connected with associates on radios in real time, allowing task updates, escalations, and AI-driven insights to move seamlessly between devices.
A hybrid strategy ensures a connected team, regardless of the devices in use.
Future-proofing communication with a hybrid approach
As retailers embrace digital transformation, shifting towards mobile compute is becoming a key part of the equation, but upgrading doesn’t have to mean replacing everything at once. A hybrid approach allows retailers to modernize at their own pace, without all the challenges of a full overhaul.
With solutions like SYNQ’s voice AI suite, retailers can bridge the gap between legacy systems and modern technology, creating a more agile, efficient, and future-ready communication strategy.