Dynamics 365 Connected Spaces: Gain real-time insights into your stores and improve your customers’ in-store experience

Microsoft recently announced the launch of two new AI-powered Dynamics 365 apps which evolve its existing Dynamics 365 for Retail offering: Dynamics 365 Commerce and Dynamics 365 Connected Spaces.
The launch of these two new applications sets out Microsoft’s vision for retail and is a testimony to its commitment to developing intelligent solutions that empower retailers to transform the customer experience.
“AI in retail is not a new concept. We have seen an increase in applications and use, online and offline for some time now,” explains Jos Otermans, Enterprise Solution Architect at HSO. “But with the launch of these two new applications, Microsoft makes new and innovative applications of AI much more accessible, so that retailers can immediately improve their customer experience.”
Unlock the hidden insights of the physical retail store
The rise of e-commerce has created tough trading conditions for the physical retail store. With today’s omni-channel consumers in full control of how, where and when they shop, retailers are facing the challenge of ensuring a consistent level of service and convenience across their digital presence and brick and mortar stores – from stocking the same variety of inventory to offering personalised recommendations based on browsing and buying behaviour.
However, whilst gaining a full picture of your customers’ product preferences and browsing behaviour online is relatively straightforward, this insight has traditionally been lacking in the physical retail space with data usually limited to what’s held in your point of sale (POS) system and important competitive information still largely untapped.
How do shoppers move through the store? Which shelves and displays do they stop at? What items are picked up and what gets left behind or returned to the shelves? What questions do the shop assistants get asked?