Such reports enabled them to zoom in on the most profitable and least profitable merchandise and many other valuable pieces of inventory information. The 90's brought more changes. Also with the growth in credit card transactions, computer systems provided tools for integrated credit card processing. Retail systems without accounting functions developed partnerships with companies specializing in accounting software so the two could be linked or integrated. The typical system for today's independent retailer has all the basic functions, from the point of sale to the back office, working together.
Merchandise is purchased, received, sold, reported and accounted.
The Future There are two technologies, both in limited existence and use right now, that will become prevalent after the turn of the century. E-retailing today is still in its infancy but its future is undeniable. Just as the Home Shopping Network carved its niche in the '80s through the media of television, so are entrepreneurs building the path for e-retailing. No, but it will change the way we merchandise. While the amount of online buying will increase as Internet security and bandwidth widen, the real benefit to consumers is the pre-shopping experience.