Microsoft Concept Shop - 1996.

The project scope included:
1. Seamless integration of in-store interactive within new physical store design, graphics, merchandising and shopping process
2. Networked solution providing downloads of daily session info and uploads of content and application updates
3. In-store connection with Microsoft's web site - one of the first to do this in the retail industry

The Microsoft Touchpoint project was a component of the Microsoft Concept Shop installed in a number of computer oriented retailers in the USA and Canada.

The concept shop was dedicated space in the retailer for Microsoft products. It was heavily branded and categorized with lots of powerful graphic images.

This in-store imagery was reflected in the interactive design to create a seamless experience for the customer.

During this 10 week project, I was involved with all aspects of the interactive development. Including working with various client groups to devise strategy for customer experience and logic flow; working with internal RPA teams to develop look and feel, transition animation concepts, and other functionality; working with Microsoft Consulting Services (the back-end developer), making client presentations, etc.

These were networked kiosks. Each kiosk reported its status and provided usage reports which were valuable to Microsoft product managers.

RPA provided a number of 'firsts' including in-store Internet access to MSN, providing product giveaways to customers registering on the interactive (this was part of the daily Reporting).

Even though the Microsoft retail merchandisers, MarCom and product manager people loved this project it finally died after 9 months of success because of Microsoft corporate decision to pursue on-line initiatives (this was the big Internet push by Bill Gates).