MicroMarkets – Designed with the Consumer in Mind

Have you ever heard of the terms UX and UI? If not, don’t worry; you’re in good company.

UX or the User Experience focuses on the overall functionality of a product. It’s how the end user interacts with the platform; what steps are needed to move from screen to screen; are multiple screens necessary; how does the end user feel at the end of the interaction.

UI or the User Interface is the nice suit that can make your product stand out or slide into obscurity. It’s everything from the font selection, color scheme, icons and more. It is what the end user will see, touch and feel while interacting with a product.

In an interview with Forbes.com, Randall Smith, founder of Salt Lake City brand management agency Modern 8 had this to say:

 “If good design is doing its job, it is managing your perception of an experience in many ways—both obvious and not so obvious. How you feel, and therefore if whether you’re going to engage and buy, is directly influenced by the design of a website, a package or a business card.”

How does this relate to your MicroMarket business? 

Your goal as MicroMarket Operator is to create a positive experience in order to maximize sales. This includes everything from the layout of the breakroom, the merchandising of the products and the checkout process. If the customer has a positive experience, then they are more likely purchase items from the MicroMarket more frequently.

What are a few things to look for in a MicroMarket technology provider?

1. Are the kiosk screens customizable?

Adding buttons for items that are frequently purchased, or that do not have a barcode, not only gives you the opportunity to offer a greater variety of products, it also helps your customers select and pay for their products faster. 

2.  What is the checkout process?

It’s important to have an accurate barcode reader and an efficient checkout process. A slow barcode reader and a checkout process with too many steps will leave your customers feeling frustrated and less likely to utilize the MicroMarket. 

3. Are multiple payment methods available?

Having a fingerprint reader is a neat feature, but some of your customers may prefer to enter a PIN or swipe a market card. Offering multiple payment methods is a way to cater to a multitude of shoppers and offer a unique experience, thereby…creating a positive User Experience!