IBM AnyPlace Kiosk

The issues

Deliver a compelling interactive experience

You need to provide instant access to information, special services and e-business transactions. With IBM AnyPlace Kiosk solutions, you can deliver a rich, compelling interactive experience directly to customers — virtually anywhere. Our kiosks combine robust computing power, a state-of-the-art infrared (IR) touchscreen display and optional peripherals in a slim, tapered design that is easy to place. They are also cost-effective, so they are ideal for pervasive installation. Multiple mounting options enable you to place kiosks at touchpoints convenient to customers and employees.

The benchmark

Why IBM kiosk solutions?

IBM's network of innovation design centers, kiosk engineering labs, cadre of self-service specialists, network of worldwide IBM Business Partners and world-class service offerings, work together to create a self-service ecosystem that builds customer-centric, self-service solutions. IBM AnyPlace Kiosk solutions offer:

• Engineering that helps deliver long life and a stable platform — our solutions go through rigorous manufacturing and testing processes to review how these devices will perform in real-world environments.
• Industry-standard VESA mounting plate, or with the option of integrated wireless connectivity for a single cable setup that makes them fast and easy to install or remove for service.
• Hidden switches and a minimal number of cover panel screws, so service providers have fast access to internal components.
• Wired for Management (WfM) compliance, enabling convenient remote management.

The components

Integrated all-in-one unit

The IBM AnyPlace Kiosk solution is an integrated, all-in-one unit that is purpose-optimized for the self-service environment—combining processor, flat panel touchscreen, pre-integrated MSR and scanner option into a single device.

• Choose between our 15", 17" or 19" models.
• Robust bezel cover design provides superior cable management and tamper-resistant user controls.
• Touch screen incorporates high-performance AMD Sempron™ and AMD Mobile Turion™ dual-core processors that support leading edge applications.
• Infrared touchscreen offers a higher contrast ratio and reduced glare for improved screen visibility.
• High-quality stereo speakers support audio applications and a presence sensor activates the kiosk when someone approaches.
• ExpressCard slot that allows for wireless WAN third-party options, to deliver business flexibility to connect and interact with customers in a wide variety of environments.
• USB and serial ports to accommodate a variety of external peripherals.
• Employs a single power cord.
• Options of 40GB hard disk drive or as a diskless thin client device (17" models come with built-in hard drive).
• Options of scanners available — AnyPlace Omni Scanner or AnyPlace Line Scanner.
• New point of sale flexibility with IBM AnyPlace POS Hub™ extends POS capabilities to a wide variety of retail locations.

The implementation

Brewing up innovative customer service

Gourmet coffeehouse operator Caribou Coffee is improving the customer experience at its 400 shops worldwide by implementing innovative IBM AnyPlace Kiosk and point-of-sale (POS) technologies. Working with RDS Systems of Minneapolis, Minnesota, IBM has installed more than 900 SurePOS 500 POS systems and more than 100 IBM AnyPlace Kiosk units at the Caribou locations, with plans to install 300 additional IBM AnyPlace Kiosk units by 2008. As a result, Caribou can be more responsive to customer requests, handling even the most complex orders quickly, efficiently and accurately.

Compact IBM AnyPlace Kiosks units enhance productivity by helping employees process orders quickly and easily using an advanced infrared touchscreen display.

The cost of ownership

Robust, stable platform delivers strong investment protection

IBM AnyPlace Kiosk solutions are self-service, hardened and engineered to deliver long life and a stable platform. The kiosks:

• Feature a rugged, durable exterior designed to withstand frequent usage and rough handling, with a sealed, spill-resistant display.
• Endure rigorous manufacturing and testing processes to help ensure devices will perform as designed in real-world environments.
• Are offered with Microsoft® Windows® XP and Linux® operating systems, and Microsoft Windows 2000 is supported, which helps increase your software choices.
• Can be integrated with diverse applications and devices enterprise wide, using a standards-based platform.
• Help deliver strong investment protection with a robust, stable platform.

Next steps

Questions about this solution? Contact an IBM retail specialist.