SportsWorld expects to save 500,000 over the next three
years through the use of broadband and IP communications, including
wireless technology.
The sports retailer has signed a 5m, three-year deal with
communications integrator Affiniti to upgrade systems at its head
office and 250 stores nationwide.
The project will provide a converged IP voice and data network. It
is expected to improve access to management information and allow
central systems to be updated in real time.
SportsWorld IT director, John Ashley, said, "We needed to improve
the customer experience and align back-office processes to ensure
savings on all fronts, not just on the shop floor."
PDAs will enable shop staff to check stock availability without
leaving the floor, and warehouse staff to maintain records.
Affiniti will manage the infrastructure remotely from its network
operations centre in Hemel Hempstead.