Retail checklist

Checklist: Deploying 5G and security for retail technologies

Whether it's for devices and IoT in storefronts, warehouses, or delivery vehicles, retailers are finding value in 5G and LTE solutions to connect their most critical applications. Let’s explore some of the most important questions to consider as you plan how to roll out and leverage cellular solutions.

Questions to consider

• What is the objective for implementing this cellular technology initiative?
• Exactly what metrics and benchmarks must the system deliver to be considered a success?
• How can the company ensure the solution it deploys will support the increased traffic and computing that will occur?
• What will it take to ensure the utmost network security as the company integrates cellular solutions into its enterprise network architecture?
• Is the IT team leading the deployment, or is a different group in charge?
• How will the IT team manage and control its deployed cellular endpoints, including hardware and software refreshes?
• Does the company have the resources to regularly send IT staff on-site to troubleshoot issues that arise?
• How long will it take to complete the deployment across all locations?
• Does the project lead have partnerships and processes in place with stakeholder groups?
• How will the organization scale security efforts to match the growth associated with this project?

Have you gathered input?

Gather input from all stakeholders — including IT, Security, Branch/Store Operations Management, and Marketing — to improve the odds of success for your technology rollout.

Quick check:

Where does your business stand in these key networking needs for stores and pop-ups, warehouses and distribution centers, and delivery vehicles?

Stores and pop-up locations	Seeking solution	Solution in place
Bandwidth augmentation
Wireless failover from wired primary WAN link
Separate network for non-POS traffic
Zero trust security, including remote access
SD-WAN capabilities for intelligent traffic optimization

Warehouses and distribution centers	Seeking solution	Solution in place
Secure network coverage for workers (comms, scanners, etc.)
Reliable connectivity for robotics and automated guided vehicles
Full coverage for surveillance, security monitoring, and PPE compliance
Support for emerging tech (computer vision, digital twin, etc.)
High cellular availability for phones during emergencies

Delivery vehicles	Seeking solution	Solution in place
Reliable connectivity for tracking location of service and delivery trucks
Ability to monitor video footage for worker and equipment protection
Wi-Fi for mobile digital equipment such as inventory scanners, tablets, etc.

Additional resources