It wasn't hard to guess where the recent Ad Age article was going with the headline: IPad Poised to Revolutionize Retail Industry. So what exactly is the iPad going to do to accomplish this feat?
In simple terms, fans of the new gadget and its aps believe it will change catalogs by making them more dynamic with the use of audio, video and, of course, wireless purchasing. The Ad Age article pointed to the Gap's 1969 Stream ap as an example of what retailers can do to transform catalogs. The interactive program includes content from designers, music, geo-locators to find the nearest store and more.
Kevin Ertell, VP-retail strategy at Forsee Results, told Ad Age the iPad will eventually replace a host of devices found in stores including kiosks and hand-held scanners. "We'll need to see the price come down before it gets to chain retail stores," he said.
Edward Brojerdi, president-MDC Innovation Partners, said, "Without a doubt, the iPad will have a dramatic impact on the in-store retail experience. There are some logistical details to get sorted out -- how do we make sure they don't walk out the door, that people aren't going to different screens -- before it becomes ubiquitous, but it will happen."
As a customer-facing technology, the iPad will enable a more satisfying shopping experience by enabling customers and/or the sales associate helping them to customize purchases and place special orders. It can also serve as a de facto personal shopping device helping consumers draw items from across the store to complete a wardrobe, home entertainment system or any other component-based purchase.
Discussion Questions: Is there any reality to the hype that Apple's iPad will revolutionize the retail industry? Where do you think it will have its biggest effect? Where do you think it will fall well short of the hype?