Multi Location Retailer / Library
Counting Technologies offers the most streamlined collection and transfer of count data available today. Wireless counters are ideal for easy installation at the store level.
Our data collection hardware is specifically designed for simple, reliable connectivity to a central server, and our proprietary software provides the greatest versatility for count data management.
We offer powerful report generation tools including automated report creation, emailing, and printing of charts & tables, plus a "WebReports" interface so management from the corporate office to every location may access and create their own count data reports.
Data Flow Overview
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For the multi-location retailers, we typically recommend the following data flow process.
- Each entrance is installed with a small battery-operated wireless counter.
- The counters wirelessly transmit the current door count to a Counter Manager located either in the back room or at an available Ethernet port. The Counter Manager is typically connected to the LAN switch at each store.
- The Counter Manager holds either a static IP or is configured for DHCP. The Counter Manager commits the current door count to a record in an internal database at pre-set, regular intervals (i.e. every 30 min.).
- At scheduled times, the Counter Manager "calls out" to a central server and uploads an XML file to a web server running IIS where TrafficFlow™ Enterprise is installed. Automated polling may occur if a store does not report in.
- TrafficFlow™ Enterprise software parses the XML file into a SQL Server database.
- Automated exports from SQL Server or linking of tables allow the count data to integrate with other store-level data. Reporting may be handled through current reporting systems (i.e. POS) or TrafficFlow™ Enterprise.
- Local, regional, and corporate management may login to "WebReports" to create their own store's traffic reports, or view the company-wide traffic results.
Implementation Notes
Data Center Software
Only the TrafficFlow Enterprise™ software is required to be installed on a web server at a central Data Center. Counting Technologies Corporation's senior technical managers will assist client's data management/IT staff with the software deployment and documentation to ensure set-up, security, and maintenance concerns are handled.
Store-level Hardware
The counters and a Counter Manager are the only items to be installed at the store level. While we recommend using our trained technicians, Counting Technologies understands each client may have established relationships with other vendors, as well as internal IT staff who could piggy-back the people counter installation with upcoming technology improvements.
Store-level Installation
If installation by Counting Technologies is desired, our installation services are performed by a nationwide team of trained, experienced counting system technicians with the tools, hardware, and IT knowledge to minimize the install timeline and the potential for stores being off-line. Project Management is coordinated by Counting Technologies.
Our install team will help ensure the system will be installed properly the first time. Installation procedures will vary slightly to accommodate the branch-level technology, hours of operation, geographic distribution, and other factors.