And we leverage the retailer's existing infrastructure to do that. These include technologies such as thin-client computing, which uses devices that require little or no local computing power and have no local storage and configuration requirements. Calif. Azmanov says he's seen a lot of interest in thin-client computing from POS companies, counting as customers IBM and Wincor Nixdorf. We're not just talking about reducing costs with this technology. But he points to the possibility of being able to download training to the point of sale to a sales associate who can study it when time allows.
Broadband access helps as well.
Broadband refers to communications pipes that are large enough to carry multiple streams of voice, video and data transmissions simultaneously. Access to broadband remains spotty, however, notes Stuart Taylor, director of emerging markets at VeriFone. In most markets, to be wired for DSL and other broadband services, users have to be located close to the telecommunication provider's central switch. Taylor notes that the technology isn't available even in some parts of the San Francisco region. Wireless access also is becoming critical.