PosTech 2011: “Implementing new technologies”
The implementation of new technologies was a hot topic during the afternoon session on day one of PosTech 2011.
The industry-leading event – which got underway in Dubai on Tuesday morning – is operating under the banner: “New Technology: New Post”.
Peter Somers, CEO of bpost international, addressed delegates in Dubai – announcing the importance of using mobile communications to enhance your business.
With the sharp growth in online sales in Western Europe, “reliability, parcel tracking, and SMS notification” are now the defining factors of customer happiness, he said.
Somers noted the possibility of using mobile communication as a platform to promote these three key aspects.
“The market is changing,” remarked Somers, “technology can improve customer satisfaction. We have exciting challenges ahead,” he added.
Somers’ thoughts were shared by Ales Hauc, director general of Slovenia Post. “In terms of technology, you have to be orientated towards the customer,” said Haus, as he explained that the country’s postal network is now fully integrated into an advanced IT infrastructure.
“Today, it is impossible to imagine a postal network not integrated within an IT system,” he said.
Ian Snadden, vice president EMEA, Intermec, discussed the key role of handheld devices in delivering the new post.
Snadden claimed that now was the time “to embrace new technology”.
“New posts have to place technology at the heart, right from the start,” he said.
Snadden revealed that global online sales figures were rising by 19% per year. In 2010, $573bn was spent; figures will rise to $680bn this year. Projected sales for 2012 peak at $821bn, whilst 2013 will see $963bn spent worldwide.
With the market growing rapidly, there is an opportunity for the express operators to boost their businesses. “There will be an increase in competition,” said Snadden. “You have to strive to become the choice of your customer. You need to aim to be an integral part of a larger service solution. Providing the best end2end solution is crucial.”
In terms of delivery, Snadden added that “flexibility is key”, citing DPD’s 1-hour SMS service alert as a success.
“Letting the customer know where and when a delivery will take place is very advantageous”, he said.
Gavin Macrae, group executive director corporate partnerships worldwide, Neopost, concluded proceedings on day one of the conference.
Macrae explored payment channel convergence: giving customers choice and safeguarding revenue.
He explained to the delegates the benefits of automated certified mailing solutions, and the development of traditional mail via Neopost software. It includes a printed coding that provides details of payment, the sender, and the time of postage, amongst others.
