Analysis

    The Kean University Bookstore is integral to the academic and campus life of students and faculty. Understanding its operational technologies, including hardware, software, and support systems, is crucial for analyzing its structured and dynamic processes. This analysis also includes exploring how new technologies and policies could enhance the bookstore’s effectiveness.

Hardware Visual from CMA POS User Guide

    The bookstore utilizes various hardware components for efficient operations. Point-of-sale systems, equipped with touchscreens, barcode scanners, and receipt printers, facilitate transactions. Servers manage inventory and support online store operations, while employee workstations handle administrative tasks. Mobile devices, such as tablets and handheld scanners, assist with inventory tracking. While the current systems are effective, upgrades like integrating IoT-enabled smart devices or RFID technology for real-time inventory tracking could further enhance efficiency. POS systems and servers likely utilize processors like Intel Core i5/i7 or Xeon series, coupled with SSDs for speed and reliability, and HDDs or cloud storage for bulk data.

    The textbook refers to the central processing unit, the CPU, as the ‘brain’ of the computer. Pulled from Chapter 4, “The CPU selects instructions, processes them, performs arithmetic and logical comparisons, and stores results of operations in memory,” (118). Unfortunately, we were unable to locate the CPU information for the register/POS system; the assistant manager Adam, who previously worked with computers at another college bookstore, suggested that the computers are from the Intel Core i-series. However, we were able to receive solid information on the laptops they sell, including Apple MacBook Airs with an 8-core CPU and range of 7 to 10-core GPU, and storage ranging from 256 to 512 gigabytes.

                

                        Intel Core i5-3470 CPU Stats sold at the bookstore.

 

Software is also essential to the bookstore’s processes. Unfortunately, we were unable to uncover the exact software that the CMA POS register systems use, however, POS systems may operate on specialized operating systems like Windows Embedded or Linux-based systems. The employee workstations and computers use Windows 10. Servers likely run Windows Server or Linux distributions such as Ubuntu Server. Application software includes vertical applications like TA2, as it is specifically designed to manage textbook inventory in college bookstores; and  horizontal tools such as Microsoft Office or Excel for data management. While these systems are currently effective, integrating AI-driven analytics could personalize customer experiences and further optimize operations.

Windows 10

    Virtualization is a way to use software to make one physical machine act like many machines or to let several systems run on one computer. This helps save resources and gives businesses more flexibility. It’s like having multiple computers or servers, but they are all running on the same physical hardware. The first type of virtualization is the PC. This refers to examples like a personal computer, like your laptop or desktop. It is used to run multiple operating systems. For example, if you have a MacBook, you can use software to run both macOS and Windows at the same time, switching between them as needed. Another type is server. This is when one powerful server is divided into smaller virtual servers. A business might use this to host several websites or applications on one physical server instead of buying many separate servers. It is more cost-effective and easier to manage. The last type of virtualization is desktop. This means a central server provides virtual desktops to many other users, and each of those people can access from their devices (like desktops). For instance, a Mac user could log in to a virtual Windows desktop using a program like Apporto. It would feel like using a Windows computer, even though they are on a Mac.

    The Kean University Bookstore is currently using virtualization, and it benefits from it in various ways. The bookstore adopted server virtualization, for example, it runs systems like the Oracle inventory management system, Text-Aid 2 for textbooks, and the Order Management System (OMS) on a single physical server. This reduces hardware costs and makes it easier to maintain and update their systems. For example, instead of having separate servers for textbook and general merchandise management, virtualization could consolidate these processes into one server while keeping them independent virtually. Additionally, the desktop virtualization also helps employees, especially during busy times like the start of the semester. For instance, employees use virtual desktops to access OMS or Oracle from any device, whether working in-store or remotely. This flexibility could speed up workflows and improve productivity. For instance, staff fulfilling online orders could access the necessary tools from home during peak periods, reducing in-store congestion. Moreover, PC virtualization also allows the bookstore to test updates or new software configurations without affecting live systems. For example, they create a virtual environment to test improvements to the OMS before deploying it, avoiding potential disruptions. Investing in virtualization technology allows Kean University Bookstore to address challenges like limited integration between systems and the strain on resources during busy seasons, enhancing both operational efficiency and customer service.

    Open-source software contains a readily available source code free for anyone to modify, distribute, and use. The bookstore does not use open-source software, since they use applications like Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office, Oracle, etc.. Furthermore, the bookstore employs both web-based applications, as OMS is accessed through Google Chrome, and native applications, such as Oracle and TA2. These technologies enhance accessibility and customer service.

     

                    Native Application (TA2)                                      Web-Based Application (Google Chrome)

    Some new technologies that are discussed in the unit include augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), autonomous vehicles, 3D printing, and Internet of Things (IoT). Each of these technologies can improve efficiency and offer innovative solutions for businesses. The Kean University Bookstore could use some of these technologies to enhance its operations. For example, augmented reality (AR) could allow students to use their smartphones to virtually preview how merchandise would look on them before buying (like Kean apparel or accessories). This feature would definitely make shopping more interactive and fun, both online and in-store. 

    Another option is Internet of Things (IoT), which could help the bookstore improve inventory management. By using IoT-enabled devices like smart shelves, the store could track stock levels in real-time. This would reduce the chance of running out of popular items, especially during the busy start-of-semester periods. The bookstore could also consider 3D printing. For instance, it could offer customizable Kean-branded items, like keychains or small desk accessories, created on demand using a 3D printer. This would provide students with unique, personalized products that cannot be found elsewhere.

    The Kean University Bookstore does not have a Bring Your Own Device, or BYOD, policy. Generally, a BYOD policy is put in place when personal devices are needed for work activities, such as accessing company data. Employees at the KU Bookstore are not allowed to use their personal phones during their shift. All technology needed during the work hours is provided, such as the computers. Because of this, there is no need for MDM, or Mobile Device Management, software.