According to new research released from Honeywell’s AI in Retail survey, nearly six in 10 retailers plan to adopt artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and computer vision (CV) technologies over the next year to enhance the shopping experience offered within stores and online. The same research also reveals that 48% of respondents identified AI, ML, and CV as the top technologies expected to significantly impact the retail industry over the next three to five years.
There is little doubt that AI is adding substantial value to many aspects of retail, including customer engagement and experience, improved operational efficiency, enhanced monitoring, and safety. System integrators (SIs), original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and independent software vendors (ISVs) have an important role to play in developing and specifying solutions and guiding retailers to deploy optimal computing hardware for AI-driven solutions.
Here are what we consider to be the top five considerations for deploying computing hardware for retail AI models:
1. Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) and Maintenance
MTBF is a universal measurement of how reliable a hardware product is. The time between failure for computing devices is generally hundreds of thousands of hours. Hardware needs a long MTBF to avoid frequent maintenance. Employing remote monitoring and management solutions is an ideal way to keep single devices and whole fleets closely tracked and managed, preventing failures before they occur. There are also low-touch and maintenance-free devices for consideration. Integrated hardware and software devices designed as solid-state solutions for long life are the top choice for retail applications. Such solid-state devices are usually fanless and are free of moving mechanical parts, reducing the occurrence of failure and the need for maintenance. Seneca’s Element Edge Computer is one such product family of solid-state long-life products.
2. Revision Control
Revision control is essential to retail outlets that require several devices to be installed in various locations or throughout the exact area in elevated numbers. Replicating the same device across sites streamlines monitoring, maintenance, and replacement when upgrading obsolete technology. This approach also allows ease of management and tracking of version history, whether for single components, firmware upgrades, or entire systems.
3. The Installation Environment
The hardware installation environment requires careful evaluation. Where and how will the hardware be installed? Is there an ideal location that would help ensure peak performance and preserve the life span of the hardware? A suitable place generally does not experience extreme temperatures, is free of humidity and sunlight, and is ideally in a dedicated IT area. The “ideal” location may not fit these criteria, with hardware installation necessary in a more demanding environment, requiring ruggedized solutions that are IP-rated and designed for protected performance in harsh environments.
4. Cybersecurity
Robust cybersecurity measures are vital for any of today’s connected devices, including those used in AI applications. Implement comprehensive hardware and software security solutions to safeguard data, intellectual property, and devices. Adequate protection will also defend against financial loss and reputational damage and ensure operational continuity. It is vital to consider device, infrastructure, and network protection. Assessments and device testing measures are available to protect end users and customers from potential cybersecurity attacks. You can read more here.
5. CAPEX or OPEX Purchasing Models
Recognize that different businesses will have varied purchasing preferences. CAPEX purchasing models involve an upfront investment in hardware as long-term assets with potential depreciation tax benefits. OPEX purchasing models benefit businesses with limited capital, providing predictable ongoing costs that make budgeting and financial planning more manageable. Be flexible in accommodating your customers’ preferences, whether CAPEX, OPEX, or a combination of both.
Drive Digital Transformation
Arrow works with the world’s leading technology brands to support original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), system integrators (SIs), and independent software vendors (ISVs) in their journey to design, build, and deploy everything from omni-channel ecosystems to single devices and systems for retail and hospitality.
Contact us to discuss how Arrow enables companies to deploy computing hardware for retail AI models.
