A Super Platform for the Modern, Omni-Channel Store

This IDC Perspective defines a framework for a modern technology "super platform" for the store that allows retailers to become more agile and able to innovate faster in their never-ending quest to improve business performance by better serving customers and engaging their workforce. In addition to defining the necessary components of this super platform, this document looks at the design principles technology builders should follow. The store super platform is a composable technology ecosystem that is founded on certain essential layers of functionality, architected in a way that allows retailers to innovate quickly and cost-effectively. This model is data-and-insight driven, makes full use of hybrid cloud/edge strategies, and leverages composable architecture to ease the development and optimal deployment of store applications. "Modern retailers face a complex array of internal and external pressures that are driving them to invest in technology at an increasing rate to meet threats head on and to take advantage of new opportunities. A simplified, unified technology super platform approach for the store will open channels for innovation and iteration, reducing the technology debt burden on retailers overall," said Leslie Hand, GVP, IDC Retail and Financial Insights."Now is the time to rethink the optimal balance of cloud and edge/on premises for your operations, along with enhanced connectivity needs to better support the technologies and solutions needed for data-driven, secure, seamless omni-channel retailing," said Margot Juros, research director, IDC Retail Insights.