The Problem
We’ve been working with builders’ merchant, Bradfords Building Supplies (BBS) who operate over 50 branches across the South-West, since 2016. Supporting their in-branch technology to keep operations running smoothly, it was time for a technology refresh as its existing three-year financed deal approached its end.
This four-month project had a firm deadline from the start, with an urgency to roll out the technology refresh before BBS’ previous finance agreement lapsed at the end of June. BBS also had a major release of its Biztrack system planned for the beginning of July and so the deployment deadline held this in mind to ensure the new technology was in place prior to this.
The Solution
The third time we’ve partnered with BBS to refresh their technology estate, and every time there have of course been learnings. Each refresh presents the opportunity to innovate alongside this thriving business and its never a case of simply replacing old devices. Instead, we set to work understanding current challenges and aspirations, evaluating how the existing technology setup has served BBS, as well as discussed new ideas and exploring what is possible.
With a plan in place, we set to work to deliver a technology solution that would support BBS’ journey for the next three years.
The Project
Time For An Upgrade
It was out with the old and in with the new as BBS upgraded from the trusty Zebra TC52x to the latest Zebra handheld device – the TC53, paired with the Zebra ZQ620 Plus mobile printer. With a larger device screen, software tweaks were required but this latest device offers BBS the ultimate in performance for the working environment.
The technology refresh presented the opportunity for fresh innovation and BBS wanted to adopt a tablet within its hardware arsenal to run its Biztrack system and enable Branch Managers to complete other administrative and operational tasks. The Zebra ET45 was chosen thanks to its SIM capabilities with a view to support future use out of branch.
Given the working environment, devices have occasionally been known to fall prey to forklift truck incidents; to cover every eventuality a larger swap pool was introduced to prevent downtime as well as the devices covered by Zebra OneCare support contracts.
Secured Devices
Designed for Branch Manager use only and with just one tablet per branch, a lockable solution was required to keep them secure. Working alongside manufacturer Falcona, the Tabloc solution was created – a lockable box with pin entry – branded specifically to match the BBS business and prevents unauthorised access to the tablet.
Introducing tracking and boosting staff accountability, Vlocr asset management software runs on all Zebra TC53 devices requiring staff to log in and out using a unique 7-digit code. All hardware is managed using enterprise MDM solution, 42 Gears, providing full visibility of device usage and location.
A Weather-Proof Labelling Solution
A key challenge BBS has faced, is the quick deterioration of labels used out in its yards. Introducing a new thermal transfer desktop printer – the Zebra ZD421t – and label material designed to weather the conditions, BBS now have long-lasting labels that perform.
Not quite as simple as a change of printer, changes to the app were also needed. Based on the selected product, the user is advised which printer to use – either the direct thermal mobile printer or thermal transfer desktop printer – and simply pair by scanning the QR code with their handheld device.
Deployment & Training
Working with implementation partner KFP, the technology refresh was deployed to all 50 sites in two weeks. This consisted of the delivery, set up, high-level training, handing over all documentation plus the removal of old equipment owned by the finance company.
Training videos showed how to change the ribbon in the thermal transfer printer, with user guides provided to support each branch and BBS’s IT service desk too. Full on-site training was provided on both the hardware and software covering common troubleshooting resolutions as well as how to manage their MDM portals.
A Refresh-ing Approach
Leveraging a three-yearly financed refresh programme works really well for BBS. They get to realise the ROI from the technology sooner, reaping the benefit before they’ve paid for it with the monthly investment essentially paying for the kit.
It also makes technology investment much more affordable with monthly payments that instead utilise Opex budgets, and in three years time, they can do it all over again without the need to sign off a substantial capital investment.
Testimonials
Bradfords Building Supplies have a long-standing relationship with TPP Retail. Now 12 months into our 3rd, 3-year contract for the supply of Services, Software and Hardware solutions. TPP Retail have extensive product knowledge, and the team are proficient solution architects able to assist with identifying appropriate solution to business challenges. All backed up with fantastic customer service and genuine value add account management.
Jonathan Chard
Group IT and Digital Director, Bradfords
