Small one window retail stores (also known as 'Kirana' Stores in India) function as one of the main lifelines in small neighborhoods.
Combining multiple features such as a 7inch touchscreen, a hand phone, a debit card / smart card reader and a thermal printer, NetPOS was developed as a compact solution for such kirana stores. The idea was to provide these stores with these devices to help them upgrade their current inventory management channels, streamline their record keeping, and act as single point access to other internet based service delivery systems, in these neighbourhoods.
One of the main aspects stemming from the research, was the need for incorporating multiple functionalities into one single device. It was expected to perform all the tasks currently being performed by the store owner (and possibly a store helper). Apart from this, the research also indicated that this device would need to have a premium, upmarket visual identity, and enable the user to execute their tasks with an easy learning curve.
The design phase took all these into consideration and there were a number of concepts generated. Along with the overall form and elements, the team also had to identify the specific internal components that would help accentuate the design. This led to multiple revisions of paper mockups, identifying the internal components suiting the design, developing appropriate layout of the PCBs, and multiple iterations of the CAD design.
Being a complex device, with multiple details, moving parts, and addressing multiple usage scenarios, it took the Enfost and the Netree team a few mock ups to achieve a fully functioning product. With the goal to develop a product which would set a benchmark in the market, special attention was also paid to achieving the right materials and surface finishes.
Developing the device had only been a part in the intended product development cycle. After the final prototype, the device was shifted to the production phase, which gave the Enfost design team to address the other aspects which would provide a complete experience, The digital User interface of the product, as well as the final consumer facing physical packaging.
Pictures credit : Enfost Design
