Solving Problems and Streamlining Your Store
An innovative approach for retailers is examining challenges from the opposite perspective. We all face numerous challenges each day, from managing inventory and controlling shrinkage to enhancing the customer experience. One innovative approach that I recommend you try is inversion thinking. This method involves examining problems from the opposite perspective. Inversion thinking reverses traditional problem-solving by asking, 'What could make this issue worse?"
This type of questioning can often reveal ideas. For example, if your goal is to increase customer visits, you might begin by identifying ideas that deter customers. Let us have poor signage, untidy displays, or slow service. Addressing these issues directly results in practical enhancements like clearer layouts, well-organised stock, and efficient checkout processes. I have used it for years for brainstorming.
Let's explore how this approach helps tackle common retail challenges.
Practical Applications
SMB retailers often face many issues. Applying inversion thinking to these areas helps clarify what changes can yield substantial improvements.
Shoplifting
Today, this is a disaster. Instead of asking how to prevent theft, consider how to make theft worse. We make more blind spots in the shop, disengaged staff, etc. This reversal points clearly to effective countermeasures, such as installing bright lighting, carefully positioning security cameras, decluttering to improve visibility, and training staff to engage customers proactively.
Rostering
Similarly, managing staff rostering. Consider what would worsen rostering, e.g. lack of communication, last-minute changes, etc. You have some more ideas here.
Product display
The display of products is better, considering how poorly the merchandise is presented. We could address issues such as increased clutter, poor lighting, and inadequate signage. Again, here we have some ideas.
With these examples in mind, let's explore how you can apply inversion thinking to your retail challenges.
Implementing Inversion Thinking in Your Store
It is too easy. Give yourself some privacy, get a sheet of paper. Start with a specific challenge in your business.
Look at the sales report from your POS System. Look at the top-selling item and say to yourself, "How can I reduce sales for that item?"
Now list your ideas, put them in a worse position, bad lighting etc. Once you finish, reverse each for actionable ideas for you to consider.
Conclusion
Inversion thinking is a fantastic way to solve problems.
Written by:
Bernard Zimmermann is the founding director of POS Solutions, a leading point-of-sale system company with 45 years of industry experience, now retired and seeking new opportunities. He consults with various organisations, from small businesses to large retailers and government institutions. Bernard is passionate about helping companies optimise their operations through innovative POS technology and enabling seamless customer experiences through effective software solutions.
