IS Analysis

Hardware defines the physical units which interact to process, send, and save data. ShopRite's hardware such as self-check lanes, scanners, and Focal Systems' AI shelf cameras helps to facilitate support of sales, stock levels, and customer satisfaction. The hardware facilitates in-store procedures speed and precision but continually requires updates so they can perform at optimal effectiveness. ShopRite uses Dell and HP-brand POS terminals and back-office PCs primarily, which are known to be reliable and compatible with retail software systems.

 

Software allows computers and digital systems to function, and it consists of programs that carry out simple along with complex tasks. Software falls into two groups: application software, which allows users to carry out tasks like scheduling or tracking sales, and system software, such as Windows or Linux operating systems that run in the background. ShopRite utilizes Windows-based systems for most in-store computers and POS terminals because of their utilization and support within the retail setting. On the back end, Linux-based servers are often used to handle large-scale data and analytics.

Application software at ShopRite includes both general and industry-specific tools. For general use, programs like Microsoft Excel are used for data tracking and analysis across departments. These are considered horizontal applications, usable in various industries. Additionally, ShopRite uses NCR’s Counterpoint POS software, which is tailored for retail and grocery management, making it a vertical application. ShopRite also utilizes customized software solutions to support scheduling and logistics tailored to their operational configuration.

Examples of emerging technologies include Artificial Intelligence, Self-Checkout, and Mobile Apps. To f ix these are all different things ShopRite currently uses to improve their business. AI is made to automate tasks, process data quickly and improve decision-making. ShopRite could use AI for chatbots on their websites to answer frequently asked questions by customers online. Instead of having an employee physically answer a phone call, the chatbots are there to sort out any confusions. Thanks to AI quick processing, it can analyze shopping data and predict which products need to be restocked in stores. In the early 2000s big retail stores like ShopRite, Walmart and Home Depot started installing self-checkout kiosk and it became the norm now in 2025. Self-checkout machines help reduce wait times and customers can scan their own groceries without a cashier present. New and emerging technologies play a critical role in ShopRite’s business strategy. Beyond AI, self-checkout, and mobile apps, the company is exploring and integrating 3D printing for custom promotional displays and fixtures, digital reality devices for employee training simulations, and IoT (Internet of Things) sensors for smarter shelf tracking and restocking alerts. AI powers chatbot services on their website, offering 24/7 customer support and predictive analytics to optimize inventory. Mobile apps enhance customer engagement, replacing physical loyalty cards and enabling features such as digital coupons, preorder, and delivery. These tools help improve convenience and foster customer loyalty.

For our group project, we studied how ShopRite’s information system uses platforms like SAP Retail and SAP HANA to manage business operations. Such systems organize data in digital tables. For example, a "Products" table may have product name, price, and inventory columns, whereas a "Sales Transactions" table might have transaction number, date, and subtotal. Metadata, such as an expression declaring the "price" field to be greater than zero of type decimal, imposes correctness and consistency constraints on the data in the entire system.  This structured data helps ShopRite track inventory, monitor sales, and make informed business decisions.

ShopRite relies on Database Management Systems (DBMS) to efficiently store, categorize, and retrieve a high volume of business data without breaching data integrity and security. SAP HANA, which is the in-memory database system applied by SAP Retail, is responsible for the key processes such as stock control, pricing, and real-time customer analysis. The other DBMS platforms such as Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, and PostgreSQL may also be used for other back-end activities subject to specific operating requirements. These systems are valued for their scalability, reliability, and advanced data tools that enhance overall business efficiency.

 

Additionally, ShopRite is beginning to adopt automated store assistants powered by real-time databases like SAP HANA to improve online shopping experiences. These systems enable features such as live inventory tracking and personalized product recommendations, supporting ShopRite’s goals for customer engagement and streamlined operations.

 

For ShopRite, they started using an automated store assistant, in this case MySQL, which is likely to be used to aid managing and suggesting products to shoppers online, where inventory and client info in real time are needed. Additionally, Shoprite utilizes SAP Retail, which is an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system having inherent database functionalities. SAP maintains business processes like stock management, pricing, and customer data, most likely underpinned by a strong database engine like SAP HANA.

Figure 5-10 illustrates how users interact with a Database System via different types of programs, including forms, reports, queries, and application software. These programs are run locally on users' machines and link to a Database Management System via an organizational network, which maintains control of all back-end management of data, including tables, relationships, and metadata, via a centralized server.

At Shoprite, which is a leading retail outlet, these database programs help to effectively organize day-to-day affairs. The company utilizes advanced systems, including SAP Retail and MySQL, to monitor different functions, which include managing inventory and tracking sales.
We were able to find a form and a report, both related to how employees interact with the database applications mentioned in Figure 5-10.

 

Form

 

Report

 

 

 

A database is a collection of related files, and the technology part takes the info and processing it and stores it, so it is easy for people to access. Database technologies are so different from what they used to be and with all the upgrades in technology it has become easier to store data. There are many different databases a company can choose, and each has a specialty that may be better for a specific company. ShopRite can use Microsoft SQL which is a simpler database that is very scalable making it a great choice for ShopRite. Another possible choice is Oracle which is one of the most used databases in 2025. Oracle is very reliable and has many packages that would be beneficial to ShopRite. Though there are many options for ShopRite to use each database has strengths and weaknesses, and as time moves forward, we will see more databases or innovations that can benefit ShopRite further.

 

Oracle 

 

 

 

Microsoft SQL

 

LAN is a local area network which connects computers that reside in a single geographic location on the premises of the company that operates that LAN. The components are servers, interface cards or devices switches, routers, Ethernet cables (wired or wireless). ShopRite uses a local area network in each store at registers, inventory databases to have a smooth and to make sure operations are secure.

 

The internet is a network of networks ShopRite connects to the internet by using fiber- optic network that helps support the digital services, payment systems and communication needs. The domain name is www. ShopRite. Com customers can access promotions and do online shopping on this platform.

 

The cloud refers to elastic leasing of pooled computer resources over the internet, as defined in Using MIS (Kroenke & Boyle, 12th ed.). It allows users to store data, run applications, and access computing power on demand without owning the hardware or being burdened with infrastructure. The cloud is adaptable, accessible from any internet-connected device, and reduces the risk of data loss in the event of a local device failure. Instead of saving files on your computer or phone directly, cloud storage saves them online, and you can access them anywhere, at any time. In Management Information Systems (MIS), the cloud has a core function in data storage, decision-making, and in ensuring smooth business operation. It is cost-saving for the company as it does away with physical servers and hardware investment, and it helps an organization to be able to securely share reports, track sales, and store inventory efficiently.

ShopRite uses a cloud-based information system known as Inmar Intelligence Retail Cloud. The system is an example of Software as a Service (SaaS), a cloud-based model whereby the consumers use software applications through the internet without owning the infrastructure. As described in the textbook, SaaS allows companies to "use" the software without dealing with installation or maintenance. Inmar Intelligence Retail Cloud supports ShopRite by improving digital marketing and retail media strategies. It summarizes and interprets data across several platforms to personalize customer experiences and target marketing. In simple terms, it's an ad tool that uses data intelligence to make advertisements seen by customers more relevant to their interest and buying behavior.

 

 

Some issues or problems ShopRite might face include network downtime, data security/privacy issues, and slow network performance. In case of an outage, the POS system would fail shortly afterward, affecting sales and customer satisfaction. We recommend a cloud-based backup system to ensure continuity. ShopRite collects sensitive personal data such as addresses and card numbers, which are potential security risks. To mitigate this, we advise adding in-built security measures such as encryption, firewalls, and breach detection. To ensure that network slowness delays are avoided, we advise a transition to high-speed networking technologies such as 5G, which would improve real-time communication between warehouses and stores.