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Offering project services in retail technology in Canada​

Offering project services in retail technology in Canada​

Introduction

In this case study we investigate field engineering services to deploy retail intelligence technology for a retailer in Canada on behalf of a software-based retail intelligence provider.​

Smart CT, a leading provider of engineering and maintenance services for IT infrastructure, secured a major contract to deploy 1,000 devices throughout a Canadian retail environment. ​

To date, over 50,000 site visits have taken place for audit, survey, staging, install, pre-planned maintenance and break-fix maintenance.

Objectives

1
Reduce the operational burden of resource planning and utilization​
2
Increase access to greater engineering skills​
3
Increase access across North America and European countries
4
The ability to flex engineer availability in peak trading seasons​
5
Cost-effective model for engineering service

Challenge

The client was finding it challenging to balance priorities and ultimately found managing in-house engineering services a distraction. At the same time the client’s business model was changing, moving away from a perpetual software license and hardware sale to a recurring software- and subscription-based commercial and service model. As deployment demand grew, the need to offer a robust and scalable engineering solution became more important. It became apparent that they needed an expert partner to support its business as it looked to scale and change.​

Solution

Smart CT, in collaboration with the retail intelligence provider, developed a robust deployment strategy tailored to the Canadian market. The proposed solution centred around upgrading in-store retail intelligence hardware and installing enhanced software to deliver deeper insights into customer behaviour.

Smart CT’s proven track record and strong service credentials made them the natural choice to lead this deployment. The contractual structure offered flexibility to expand or reduce services in line with business requirements, supported by quarterly reviews to ensure operational efficiency. Service provisions included site surveys, installation, and a blend of proactive and break-fix maintenance, all with a next-business-day SLA across Canada and into select North American regions.

Implementation

The project began with a proof of concept and detailed deployment planning based on priority retail sites. A Smart CT project manager was appointed to coordinate all aspects of delivery, ensuring that logistics, stakeholder alignment, and technical execution were handled seamlessly.

Once on-site, Smart CT engineers oversaw the activation and integration of the cameras and sensors into the client’s central analytics platform. This enabled the immediate availability of actionable data, aligning with the client’s expectations for fast and reliable insight delivery.

Key Outcomes

Simplified method of organising resources
Through an online request form, work orders were requested and performed as required.
Commercial standardisation and ease of pricing
A simple pricing model was created enabling bids and projects to be aligned to the client’s needs.​
High SLA performance
Having access to a wider pool of engineers and having a minimum commitment with Smart CT, the service was well resourced, ultimately achieving the required SLA performance.
Digital feedback forms driving consistency of reporting
Once a work order task was completed, a structured report form was set up to maintain consistency of feedback.
Access to resources in new regions and countries
The service model expanded across new European countries.

Results & Benefits

The client benefitted from a simplified approach to managing field engineering work, facilitated through a streamlined request platform. A clear and standardised pricing model was developed, supporting bid accuracy and project transparency.

Service level performance was consistently high due to Smart CT’s deep resource pool and embedded service commitments. The use of structured digital reporting forms ensured consistency in feedback, while the service model enabled expansion into new regions across both North America and Europe.

Conclusion

Smart CT’s strategic approach and operational flexibility enabled the client to successfully navigate a complex and large-scale technology deployment across Canada. Their ability to meet high service standards, control costs and respond to evolving requirements, making them an essential partner in the client’s growth strategy.

This case study underscores the value of a unified service delivery model, one that combines consistency, innovation, and adaptability to support business transformation across international retail environments.

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