SME's and SOA key for retail industry

Legacy integration infrastructure, such as point-to-point and enterprise application integration (EAI) will struggle to cope with the demands of multi-channel retailing, says a report published by Datamonitor and appearing on the Computer Business Review Online.

By contrast, it says Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) offers essential flexibility and cost-savings. In addition the deployment of SOA among retailers is still relatively low, compared to other industries. However, the report says the growth of multi-channel retailing will help incidence levels rise. The role of small to medium enterprises (SMEs) is important as they hold significant power in the retail market, the report says.

If growth in SOA is to continue in the medium-term then vendors will have to refine their go-to-market strategies, the report adds. More effectively catering to the SMB market is essential, and there is a need for more non-IT related material to help overcome barriers to adoption.

BP, the third largest oil, gas and petrochemical company, will implement Retalix StorePoint software applications for over 27 000 of its petrol stations, convenience stores and quick service restaurants in 18 countries reports PR News.

During recent years, BP has grown by acquisition and acquired a patchwork of retail systems. This has led to a variety of technology solutions, including multiple types of POS and numerous back office, forecourt control, payment processing, and headquarters systems. Many of these systems have become outdated and in need of replacement.

As a result, BP sought to implement a consistent, global retail technology framework across its entire retail operation. The solution is in the process of being deployed to all BP company-owned stores globally over the next 3 years.

7-Eleven, has extended its contract with business and technology provider, EDS, till 2012. EDS will continue to develop, host and manage 7-Eleven's enterprise applications and the infrastructure that supports inventory, logistics processes, payroll and accounting reports PR news.

The agreement allows 7-Eleven to manage its portfolio of applications as well as align its IT portfolio with the company's retailer initiative strategy. This initiative aims to improve productivity in the areas of operations, merchandising, accounting, planning and information systems through item-by-item management.

"This agreement aligns well with our business objective of flexibility and scalability and meets the need to adapt as we change and grow," said Sharon Stufflebeme, chief information officer for 7-Eleven.