I am, at times, technologically challenged. While I am like a “duck to water” with my Apple Watch, according to a friend, there are times when technology isn’t intuitive to me and complicates the process rather than simplifying it. A perfect example: We recently changed from Direct TV to YouTube TV because NFL Ticket changed partners. Every single one of our TVs operates differently now from remotes to navigation. Acclimating to the new system has not been my finest moment.
But, technology’s role is really about making things better. Whether it is being used to streamline, simplify and automate or make things more beautiful and durable, in the floor covering industry, it touches every one of these aspects and more.
The topic of technology is a bit broad. I’ll put these innovations into distinct categories that are impacting our businesses today. First, the digital world. My goodness this is so important today. I just returned from the Floors & More convention and one hot topic was the part that digital assets play in making a business profitable. It is way beyond an engaging website and social presence. It is everything from tracking leads, capturing meaningful metrics to QR codes connecting product specs, pricing and even inventory.
Mobile Marketing is the partner of choice for Floors & More (and several other retail groups). It’s CEO Carole Cross also recently launched, with a partner, Samples App which provides the retailer and the vendor real time information about a particular sample — when it was checked out, if it was returned and there is an option for charging the customer for an unreturned sample. It is also a way to connect with the potential customer and provide additional product info and, at the end of the day, keep the conversation going. It’s all possible with a simple scan of a QR code. Look for continued coverage as Samples App evolves with more opportunities for consumer connections and cost savings.
There is also back office software that collects meaningful data including tracking leads, inventory availability, installation scheduling, invoicing and so much more. RFMS was on hand at Floors & More to support members on that journey as well. What’s more, Mobile Marketing, which designs and supports most members’ websites, works hand-in-hand with other tech companies such as RFMS and Roomvo to further streamline operations and provide a great experience for the customer.
I am 100 percent convinced that a well-run business and its profitability depend on adopting the latest digital technology. While I’m not always the most tech savvy as I’ve said, I see what it can do and, whether or not I’m completely proficient in a new platform or process, I see the benefits and bring on whatever is available that will support what our team here at FCW does to keep our business strong.
One change FCW recently made is how we deliver our daily and weekly emails. You should have received a notification of domain change. This was an internal move to streamline our subscription data and delivery of our FCWdaily and FCWweekly brands.
The other category of technology that has a great impact on floor covering is about how a product looks and performs. There has certainly been a lot of innovation here. Things like digital printing, use of fibers and construction and dying methods all help to create beautiful products in every category. Hard surface can be made to look like just about anything. And the realism of textures too has become so good you can hardly tell the real thing from a product inspired by the real thing.
Performance properties have also been an area of investment — pet-friendly, waterproof and water-resistant, dent and scratch resistant, stain resistant. Today’s flooring is made to truly be lived on.
FCW’s annual Technology Issue is designed to report on the latest innovations. As well, the first Floor Covering 101 Guide of each year is devoted to Digital & Software. Visit FCW1.com to see the 2023 edition.
Technology can be daunting. But if you take it on and tap into the experts, you will realize measurable results. Stay safe. Stay inspired.