A DTI Client Since 1999.
This national food retailer operates over 800 stores in 25 states. The success of its business depends on providing its customers with quality products at low prices and operating highly efficient stores and distribution.
The Challenge
DTI had been handling equipment staging and consolidation for this retailer since 1999. In 2006, this client embarked on a program to replace its point-of-sale systems at 700 stores. Each store would receive four to six new point-of-sale terminals, with each terminal consisting of 13 pieces of hardware and a site-specific store PC, all provided by over ten different vendors.
The challenge for this retailer was in having all the components of each store’s point-of-sale installations arrive together, on schedule, with software loaded, and all hardware and software fully tested. If a single component was missing or not working properly, it would result in costly delays in installation and disrupt store operations.
This client also needed someone to manage its equipment suppliers, handle warranty claims as needed, and assist with the liquidation of discontinued equipment from its stores.
The DTI Solution
DTI has extensive experience managing this type of project for retailers, including Albertson’s. The process used for this national retailer, among others, began with a detailed work plan approved by the client, and timely communication and follow up with all parties contributing to a successful implementation.
A key component of DTI’s solution was its WebCenter system, which tracks all assets by serial ID, location, steps in the overall process, and activity history. Clients can access the system via the web and have real-time visibility to their assets and DTI’s activities.
DTI staged all the equipment as it arrives, loaded the necessary software, and verified that the hardware and software are operating properly. Then DTI consolidated the equipment by destination and coordinated the shipment for delivery on client specified dates.
Throughout this process, DTI worked directly with the clients suppliers, managed any issues, and handled warranty claims. Finally, DTI assisted with the liquidation of the discontinued equipment returning from the stores, maximizing the residual value that was realized, and avoided any EPA issues from disposals.
The Results
The client and DTI successfully completed this project on time and on budget. Overall, 700 store servers, 1500 lanes of POS, and many additional components were staged and deployed without any delays. DTI is uniquely positioned to handle these large, complex distribution projects, particularly those involving computer systems and electronic equipment.