News

Retail application for Microsoft Surface unveiled

March 24, 2008

SEATTLE — Accenture and Avanade announced the availability of their first retail showcase application for Microsoft Surface, a 30-inch surface-computing display in a table-like form factor. Surface provides effortless interaction with digital content through touch, gestures and by placing objects on the tabletop, rather than through the use of a keyboard or mouse. 

For example, customers in an electronics store deciding which TV to buy are usually confronted with a broad range of choices, each with very different specifications and price points. Using the application developed by Accenture and Avanade, customers can compare products, draw scaled images of rooms in their home — complete with existing furniture and lighting — to see how the products would look. Customers can also book installation and complete their purchase by moving images and information across the screen with their hands.

The application even illustrates the optimum viewing area for different TVs. Before making their purchase, customers can also choose additional products to go with their TV purchase, such as a remote control or cables.

"This application can change a store into a destination in its sector and it is one tool that should be in a customer-centric retailer's arsenal," said Jeff Smith, managing director of Accenture's retail practice. "Surface's multi-user capabilities allow retailers to share in a collaborative buying experience with customers, providing not just detailed knowledge about products in the store but also how it is going to look, when it can be installed and even where the customer should sit on their sofa for the best view. For the retailer, it can help store associates by supplementing their customer service activities with 'at your fingertips' knowledge support."