Product as Point of Sale

The increasing possibilities of IoT developments have enabled a new business model pattern, known as Product as Point of Sale. This model shifts the point of sale from consumables to easy-to-use ordering tools at the point of consumption. By utilizing interconnectivity, separate devices are used for the final ordering process, placing the point of procurement close to the point of consumption.

Applying the Product as Point of Sale business model

As a result of this shift of the point of sale from consumables to the point of consumption, customers become less price sensitive, leading to stronger customer loyalty. Additionally, the number and combination of sensors in the object used for ordering can provide valuable information for optimizing the product offer and identifying complementary goods. For example, geo-specific marketing can be used to adapt offers to the radius in which a device is located.

The Product as Point of Sale pattern fits well with customer data-driven business models such as Hidden Revenue or Leverage Customer Data. The combination of data from different sources can push the potential of the object as a point-of-sale to the next level, allowing for the creation of tailored offers for the right customers in the right situation.

Central to this business model pattern is the idea of shifting the point of purchase to where the demand or need arises. While Product Self-Service is an IoT-based business model pattern that places orders on its own, Product as Point of Sale requires customer confirmation for the final purchase. This new model brings a large increase in sales potential and can be used for cooperation with third-party companies.