When you think about an intercom system, it might call to mind a basic solution, such as pushing a button and speaking into a panel. Like many devices, intercoms have greatly advanced over the years and now offer a flexible, cost-effective solution for many industries. New IP video intercoms can address a number of end–user needs—especially in today’s pandemic world. Here are three uses for intercoms in retail settings:
Curbside Pickup, Loading Docks, and Delivery Services
As they can be remotely monitored from anywhere, IP video intercoms provide great value in regard to managing loading docks and delivery services. When a package arrives during off hours, a delivery person can gain access without the need for on-site staff to open doors. This can also be used to enhance security in loading dock areas, allowing managers to visually identify a driver before opening bay doors.
With the increase in online shopping and curbside pickup due to COVID-19, intercoms can be used to facilitate these pickups. For customers waiting to pick up their item at a curbside pickup, managers can use a video intercom to visually confirm their identification. Having the ability to then communicate next steps to customers helps maintain a healthier facility by ensuring the transferring of goods happens from a safe distance.
Securing Access to Restricted Areas and Remote Monitoring
Many retail stores have staff–only areas, break rooms, and storage facilities that are off limits to customers, as well as certain staff. IP video intercoms can be used to manage access to these restricted spaces, as well as assist management in managing occupancy restrictions. If you have a break room that only allows five staff at a time, a video intercom system can help determine if the employee requesting access is able to enter the room. For restricted storage spaces, video intercoms can manage access, ensuring only proper staff is able to gain access. In a store that might have high–security spaces for storing high-value items, an IP video intercom can remotely monitor the space to ensure it is secure and that the only authorized individuals gain access..
Prioritize Employee/Customer Safety
It has been nearly a year since the pandemic began and retailers have been cautiously reopening and resuming business with new restrictions and guidelines in place. However, there is still a great deal of uncertainty. An intercom system can help keep staff and customers safe and healthy by providing a touchless way to communicate and gain access to a facility. If a plexiglass barrier is installed in a customer service, or checkout area, installing a simple intercom system can enable better two-way communication. If a store is limiting staff onsite, an IP intercom can be monitored from anywhere, including mobile devices.
These are just three examples of how the intercom systems of today can increase security, enhance safety measures, and provide monitoring for retail environments.
