Source: NYTimes.com
Date: Feb 23, 2013
Professional bra fitters have also moved online. Linda Becker, whose family owns two bra stores in New York, says she sells twice as many bras online today at LindaTheBraLady.com as she does in her stores. Some of her online customers have previously visited one of her shops and been fitted in person. But new customers take their own measurements and work with customer service representatives on the phone. She says only 10 percent of online orders are returned. But some customers turn out to be extremely hard to fit and it’s hard to tell why, Ms. Becker says. “That kind of customer will be impossible to fit online because the problem is unseen. There’s no way of figuring it out over the phone.” Read Rest of Story
Definition of algorithm: a step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or accomplishing some end especially by a computer.
Questions for discussion:
- What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
- Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
Info Systems in Practice 
What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
I like that this company recognizes that every woman has a different body, and what one seeks for their selves is not typically what everyone is looking for. Using algorithms in this case will prove to be beneficial in the long run. The 15 question quiz will allow insights to the customers unique preference, this is beneficial because you are catering to each customer with different preference which almost guarantees a higher customer satisfaction. Using this application can be profitable for a company as it can maybe cut their fixed or variable cost. Most online shops do present you with a questionnaire and it is because they have realized how advantageous it can be for their company.
Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
Now more than ever there is a shift to online shopping, as people find it convenient and easy. If this phenomenon continues to grow and companies find that their online stores are getting more visiting customers than their tangible and physical stores, there is a possibility that they will focus more of their attention on their online customers. This trend is growing the most with generation X and generation Y. I think there will still be people that will be skeptical shopping online because they like to feel and try their product, especially if it is retail related. Unless in the future we find a very clever idea for people that are skeptical of online shopping, mortar stores will still continue to be in business.
1) I think the whole things is valuable because some women find it easier to have an online step by step procedure online than to go into a store and some woman are not comfortable being measured or having other people doing things like picking out bras and so on for them. I also think that doing things like this online or over the phone is more time efficient and easier to find what you’re looking for, or even if it is in stores but a machine that you can put all of your information into and it guides you. The world/society is becoming more dependant on technology so people and companies may use technology when they can and to help the market. I think with things like this going on, it will give consumers more success and more of what they want.
2) I don’t think just yet that this application will replace brick stores but I think it could threaten or compete but at the same time it also helps some stores and companies become very successful. Online shopping in the comfort of your own home can be great but sometimes its easier to just go to the store. I think that eventually online shopping for many things will become more and more popular and adding technology in the stores to make shopping more easier and convenient.
Technology is advancing all over the world and more and more people, businesses and so on are becoming more reliable on technology and technology is helping some of the world succeed. I think this situation is not out of the norm because people online shop, get help on the phone and its becoming more popular.
1. What application of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
From my defence a lot of people do like shopping but just 50% shop for bras on a regular base. This algorithm can be used in several ways, most women that do not like stressing theirselves to go all the way to the mall, they can just sit at home and go online to buy their bras since it’s more easier for them to just go through their sizes of bras than just guessing when they are at the mall and definitely getting the wrong one and returning it. Most men that also want to surprise their girlfriend or wives can also sit at home as well and sneak to check their girlfriends/wives sizes without them knowing. It’s important that most business that have an online cite make sure their customers have the best experience and find it more convinient when shopping online.
2. I do not think future online shopping will be the best way to replace shopping, so many people find it easier to go over to the store to actually try on stuff and see pretty by their selves rather being confused and not being sure of what you are about to get. Every day we learn new things and everyday new things are being introduced to the world.
1. What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
Being able to mathematically input your bra size by your measurements and answer a questionnaire that specifically caters to you is an asset no employee can do for a customer. The clothing industry is a constant booming marketplace. There are endless changes in the fashion “ins and outs”; but for something that is very individual-based such as undergarments, bras in particular, algorithm is important. When selecting clothing based on sizing and the fit, clothing articles such as t-shirts and jeans require less attention than bras. Being able to mathematically input your bra size and body dimensions, followed by a brief questionnaire about your upper body’s physical appearance would allow online lingerie stores to predict their customers measurements more accurately on the first try.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
E-commerce is taking the retail world by storm and consumers are loving it, however doing some online shopping in the comfort of your home may be more stressful than getting up and going to the store itself. Some woman (such as myself) love getting to actually talk to a trained employee in person about their bra size so they can actually diagnosis the issue first hand, where as some woman are not comfortable with that and would rather fill out a questionnaire and input their own measurements. These different types of businesses conform to different types of people and their preferences. I personally hate online shopping because of the shipping cost, risk of it getting lost or stolen in the mail, it won’t fit right and it won’t look exactly how I want or was hoping it would look. But the fact that retail e-commerce is available and is flexible to ordering anytime, any place, which is convenience to busy, and on the go people.
I believe that the algorithm could be invaluable. With the option to buy such a personal article of clothing with great accuracy could help change how we shop. The algorithm might not be perfect, but what is? This could lead to being able to shop for many other items and the algorithm could be applied to pre-existing ways that we order to eliminate the amount of returns and have a greater satisfaction rate. The algorithm could help eliminate the number of different clothing choices one tries on before buying or it could be extended to help with alterations or tailoring.
I think that although the idea is solid and many people would much rather prefer to shop online because of the many different fits and styles eliminating brick and mortar stores is unlikely. As the article pointed out people would be fitted in the stores initially then take their business online. As well the article stated that some people have more difficulty than others when choosing a bra because of fit and these people may need to have a professional consultation. Furthermore, elderly people might feel more comfortable in the familiarity of an actual store. As well shopping for bras or anything can be a social event that involves family, friends, and significant others by eliminating the brick and mortar store the social event will disappear as shopping online is generally done by oneself when that person has a free moment. Therefore, I believe that the two will co-exist in the future.
What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
The application is great in my mind, there are not that many people who want to be in public when they shop for a personal item such as a bra. In the comfort of their own home people can sample try on and get recommendations from past history what type, size, and fabric you would find most preferable. It might become like Netflix and suggest new bras that might feel, support, be a better comfort then what you normally wear, and giving stars to those companies that make a superior bra will be recommended more frequently.
Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
I do not think e-commerce will replace physical stores any time soon. With the five bras sent out only two were purchased and this was based with what the consumer put into the algorithm. It was compared against of what they all ready had if any. For this to really take over and have e-commerce take over the market completely people will first will have to know what they enjoy first before they can purchase something that you have to live with every day.
What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
This kind of algorithm has the ability to tailor-made the offer to the specific characteristics of each client on a large scale. It therefore breaks the old paradox of customization vs standardization thanks to the automation it provides. It also gathers a lot of data about the customers and that will help to further improve the quality of the algorithm. The more data the algorithm gathers the higher the quality of its recommendations to clients and the higher the customer satisfaction. The use of algorithm clearly creates a virtuous circle that can be leveraged into a competitive advantage in the market place (e.g.: Google search algorithm performs way better than the its direct competition).
Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
I personally believe that e-commerce application and brick and mortar store will keep coexisting in the future. First of all prices of bras on this particular website are really high which means that we are talking about high-end lingerie. Mainstream lingerie will probably still be bought for the major part in classic stores because their cost structure is not adapted to develop highly precise suggestion algorithms specifically designed for bras. It is possible that a bigger share of high end underwear will be sold over the internet but the shopping experience provided by high end store will still attract lots of consumers as well.
1.What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
I think this kind of algorithm is extremely valuable based on convenience to the consumer. It can be expanded into all the different sections of clothing helping people with all body types find clothes they are comfortable in, not having to go through the struggle of trying everything on. For example having an algorithm like this at a mens professional clothing store would speed up the tailoring process because the clothing would be more suited for the persons body type who is purchasing the clothing.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
No matter how accurate this algorithm becomes I do not believe it will ever be able to replace brick and mortar stores. Most of the people spend time at the mall as a social event, enjoy their time there with friends and family. Going to the mall is more then finding an article of clothing and leaving, people enjoy the process. Also, when buying products most people prefer inspecting the products buy touching and physically seeing their products and comparing them to the rest in the store to insure they have made the correct decision. The convince of the algorithm can be extremely helpful when purchasing difficult products that require a lot more attention to detail, but when choosing a simplistic product most people enjoys browsing and looking at the alternatives.
2.Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
I personally do not think this e-commerce application replace the brick and mortar stores because some people would still prefer physically going to see what the stores have and try them on if they were looking for cloths. it could depend on the age groups or living location. For people who are fairly young and familiar to these technologies such as internet, twitter may prefer buying stuff online because of the selection that web offers, but for people who aren’t comfortable with the technologies would not be the best way.
I do not think that this e-commerce application will replace brick and mortar stores for this application because some people do prefer to try things on physically instead of going online and guessing if the item (in this case bra) fits or not. Although going out shopping takes a lot of time and effort to find exactly what you are looking for, it’s fun and e-commerce just takes the fun out of it.
1.) What application of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace? The value of this type of algorithm in the marketplace is the convenience and privacy piece for consumers. If I could avoid travelling to a store, interacting and perhaps waiting, for a salesclerk, I would prefer the algorithm to purchase my item. The option of having 5 different items to try on in the privacy and timing of my choosing holds many benefits. First of all, I am not restricted to store hours, I do not have to think about travelling or parking, and I can try the items when my schedules permits it. Also, I am not left waiting while other customers pass through the store. I would not have to feel rushed like a traditional change room either.
For the business owner, they do not have to pay for a store front, customer service representatives, or costs associated with a physical store. They could greatly reduce overhead costs, work out of a small office and use minimal space for storage. The only additional costs they need to consider are for shipping for customers.
2.) Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
One needs to look at demographics when considering this question. Younger people may prefer the e-commerce application as many are already used to shopping online, using social media as a mainstay for communication and prefer the convenience of access 24 hours a day.
Additionally, customers who live in rural settings may prefer the e-commerce application because it provides options to more goods and competitive markets that they could not otherwise access in their area.
On the other hand, older customers or those who “grew up” in the traditional department or mall setting may not like the e-commerce application. They may not have access to the Internet. They may also prefer the in-person experience with a trained employee to assist with the fitting and purchase. They may also prefer the option of returning to the brick and mortar store for returns or re-sizing.
The e-commerce application may not replace brick and mortar stores in the near future, but if transportation costs, utilities and rental or building mortgage rates continue to increase, business owners may decide a move towards more of an e-commerce presence will increase their profit margins, lower costs to consumers and appear more attractive to shareholder.
Thank you
The application of selling bras online itself will definitely be valuable in the e-commerce marketplace, especially when the company sends out more bras that will potentially fit the customer much better and which are usually preferred by the customer over the bra which was initially ordered. while these algorithm become more useful as they depend less on the human expertise to get the job done. By selling their products online, businesses should be able to provide the best shopping experiences to their customers in comparison to the traditional brick and mortar style. People that don’t want the hassle of wasting hours shopping for something that they just settle on in the end. You are free to try on all of the bras in the comfort of your own home without feeling pressured by representatives to buy the item based on their overly-pushy and commission seeking ways. and although selling bras online is another creative idea, other people would probably prefer to buy their bras in the store itself, for the reason that they may be unsure of their bra sizes, they are not used to buying things online and last but not least, they may be skeptical about receiving the right side bras back. It is always a time consuming to return unwanted items back, but at the same time it is kind of nice to be able to try bras on in the comfort of your own home. with thus said I don’t think e-commerce application will replace brick and mortar stores for this application because there are still people out there who prefer the in person customer service and would rather walk away with an item the same day compared to online shopping where one has to wait for a few days/weeks for the item to be delivered.
I do not believe that this e-commerce application will replace brick & mortar stores completely when it comes to intimate apparel. I believe that there will always be women that will need to touch and try on in the store before they make a commitment to purchase. I also know that there will be those women that are just hard to fit and will need the personal assistance of a professional bra fitter to help them. I do believe that to stay competitive retailers will be encouraged to expand on their e-commerce operations rather than their brick and mortar stores. Many people are moving towards e-commerce for its convenience, the customer can shop at a time that is convenient for them and not just during traditional store hours. Some customers, especially for intimate apparel purchases, appreciate the added privacy that e-commerce affords them. So I think it is fair to say that if a retailer does not expand their services to include e-commerce they will be left behind. With e-commerce I believe that a retailer needs to make an extra effort to insure customer satisfaction. When a customer is unhappy with a purchase from a physically store, they will go back to the store to return the item and voice their discontent, how the merchant deals with that customer and their concerns will either encourage or discourage the customer to shop again. With e-commerce, retailers should be careful to not confuse return rate for customer satisfaction. Linda the Bra Lady suggests that their online sales 10% return rate is a marker for customer satisfaction and it may be to a certain degree but it would be a mistake to assume that the other 90% are satisfied customers. While e-commerce shopping provides a time convenience to the customer the return process does not and a lot of dissatisfied customers don’t return their items and they just stop purchasing from that retailer. The customer never voices their concerns so the retailer does not get an opportunity to right the wrong. So I think that it is important to make the extra effort to follow up with your e-commerce customers to insure customer satisfaction.
1. This algorithm could be expanded to apply to different industries or even other areas of the retail industry. It is valuable for companies to know what type/size of customer is shopping at their store so that they can determine what styles of fashion they should continue to develop. For example, knowing that the majority of customers are of a certain size and shape allows a company to design clothes that are flattering to that shape, to produce more clothing in that size, and promote different styles to certain customers.
2. Although this algorithm is allowing companies like True&Co to be successful and grow, I do not think that this application will completely replace brick and mortar stores. Customers like to go out and shop to try things on, partly because they need to buy things, but also for the experience. People, women especially, like to call their friends and go on shopping trips to the mall, on a shopping road trip to Calgary, etc. On the other hand, e-commerce is constantly expanding. Online shopping has increased drastically, but there are still enough people, like Sindhya Valloppillil mentioned in the article, who believe that the algorithm does not work and that a good fitting bra needs to be found in store. Even though you are provided five bras to try on at home, if none of them fit comfortably then it is a hassle for you to have to send them back and wait to receive more. For these reasons, I do not think that brick and mortar stores will be completely replaced. However, I do think that applications like this will continue to grow and expand into more industries.
1.What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
It provides a more personalized fit and product for each costumer, which is one of the main objectives when purchasing a bra. Each person is different and if you can find the best fit for them, you will be successful in this market. This provides a much better experience for the customer, and would lead to more support and purchases. I think it is effective in what it provides to their customers, by using the algorithm they are given 2 additional bras. These 2 additional bras are the ones most likely purchased, providing the customer with an even better experience and bra. No other company is using this algorithm and applying it, so I think it is very valuable for True&Co.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
I think it has the potential to, but I don’t think it will be anytime soon. There is advantages to both shopping experiences. Being in a store provides and experience where you are able to try things on and see how they look and feel, people plan social outings to go shopping and plan their days for it. But the online experience is a lot easier and efficient, you are able to shop on multiple shops and sites without leaving your room. You are able to return products, and like True&Co you can try on and not buy. I think the e-commerce will replace the social norm of shopping in person in the future, but not completely. I think people will still do shopping in person, more for the experience than the purchases.
1. If this algorithm can work with something as complex as bras, it can really be used for anything. This e-commerce application will continue to grow as more and more people become digital consumers, buying products and services from home. With the digital age growing rapidly, online stores with algorithms like this one can soon begin to drive out their competition, like clothing stores. This also creates a problem however: people (hands on workers) will soon become obsolete and there is no stopping that. This algorithm saves time, makes shopping more convenient and personalizes the experience for the consumer.
2. This e-commerce application will for sure replace brick and mortar stores because like I have said, the digital age is expanding. Almost every industry is now being digital and using algorithms to get their everyday tasks complete. Those not doing so, are at a significant disadvantage and will start feeling that as time goes on. E-commerce is a game changer now more than ever.
1. I think the applications of this particular kind of algorithm would be valuable in the marketplace in that it both creates choices to be offered based on customer preferences and needs. In connection with filling choices and needs, it is also convenient and more private in the nature of the transaction. I think that many people would prefer this type of transaction over the traditional choice as you have the options of trying the product on in the privacy of your home which is valuable in itself. When we are presented with options, I think it is human nature to choose the path of least trouble. I am personally happier to have the personal experience of shopping in the areas of clothes, shoes and books, but am not comfortable with being fitted for more personal items.
2. I do not think that e-commerce could not fully replace the brick and mortar stores for this application in this circumstance, due to the nature of the traditional shopping experience. The initial quiz that has been established, as a precursor to the application, is a great and clever idea with an analysis of the screen shot. The algorithm provides options for choice selection and creates favorable sales results with few returns for the majority of consumers. As there is still a minority who struggles with this type of shopping experience, the total replacement of e-commerce would not be fully functional. However, I think that smaller physical store locations with larger warehouses focused on a larger e-commerce audience would be the ideal business structure.
Although this form of algorithm may not be liked by all, there are still many ways in which this algorithm may be applied. But the applications of this particular kind of algorithm I think will be valuable in the marketplace are as follows: a.) Not having to enter a physical store to and waiting for long hours to find the right bra. b.) The ability to get a seemingly “perfect” bra with employees of the store having to go through the hustle and bustle of finding a good match for the customer. c.) Providing personal information such as the body type and the size of the best fitting bra and its manufacturer by the customer aides to quicken the process of finding the appropriate bra for the customer.
I personally do not think this e-commerce application will replace brick and mortar stores. This is because not everyone is in the technological or digital age. Although some are already in that era, others are in the transitioning process and others are still no where near it. Due to this, there will still be several other people who deem it necessary to enter a store to purchase certain particular items of which bras are no exceptions. Also, some people prefer to enter a store at any time to get their desired item eg. bra especially when its urgent, and thus, cannot wait for several days in order to receive these items all in the name of shipping. Therefore, not being able to get the bra at the exact time they need them may pose as a problem.
What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
This algorithm would be valuable in many areas of the consumer marketplace as it puts the majority of the difficulty in finding personalized matches of product to customer on the computer’s algorithm. The idea of being able to rely on calculations to make a good buyers decision and save time and avoid uncomfortable experiences is invaluable to many customers and is likely to catch on even more in many more areas of the marketplace.
Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
Although I think that the e-commerce application will become the more dominant way to purchase products, I don’t think it will ever replace the brick and mortar stores as there will always be customers who prefer to be physically in a store for their shopping experience, for those customers who require help especially those who do not fit inside the constraints of an algorithm, and for customers who want to be able to buy their product on the spot and not have to wait for shipping times.
What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
This algorithm would be valuable in many areas of the consumer marketplace as it puts the majority of the difficulty in finding personalized matches of product to customer on the computer’s algorithm. The idea of being able to rely on calculations to make a good buyers decision and save time and avoid uncomfortable experiences is invaluable to many customers and is likely to catch on even more in many more areas of the marketplace.
Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
Although I think that the e-commerce application will become the more dominant way to purchase products, I don’t think it will ever replace the brick and mortar stores as there will always be customers who prefer to be physically in a store for their shopping experience, for those customers who require help especially those who do not fit inside the constraints of an algorithm, and for customers who want to be able to buy their product on the spot and not have to wait for shipping times.
I am a guy, and therefore not overly knowledgeable about bras (beyond the fastener, I mean). However, based on what I read, finding a bra that fits perfectly must be something of a challenge–and having to have a sales associate help you find the perfect one that fits seems like a very awkward and annoying experience to go through. I think the idea of an algorithm to determine the right bra size is ingenious from that angle–it allows women to quickly try out bras without having to worry about privacy or taking a long trip to the mall to find the perfect fit. It is also super handy on an economic level, as it potentially allows companies to save money that would otherwise be spent on employing staff to help people try on the bras.
As great as the algorithm is, I don’t think it will replace brick-and-mortar stores altogether as it currently stands. The article mentions that the algorithm uses over 2000 body types to determine the perfect fit, but the company cannot custom-make a bra to match every body type. People will have to travel and shop and pick out their bras by hand if the company cannot supply them a product based on the algorithm. Also, it was mentioned in the article that some people are unable to use the algorithm because their problems are not “visible” and must be dealt with in person. I guess no matter how effective the algorithm is, we will still need that human element in some cases to make judgement calls. Overall, I think the algorithm will reduce costs and make things easier for producers and consumers, but I don’t think it will replace stores.
1. What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
Of course, as with any product that has a high range of customizability, it’s tough to make a real appeal to customers (especially the more conservative brick and mortar shoppers). This algorithm, however, has a sense of insurance that is sure to revolutionize the types of products that are bought online. Like stated in the article, the fact that stores can attain fairly accurate measurements from creating an algorithm formed from a large sample size, gives customers more confidence that their online shopping will indeed turn out to contain some successful buys.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
Although I believe that this technology truly has a real potential to revolutionize the market for personal clothing, I don’t think it will replaced brick and mortar stores any time soon. In my opinion, there will always be a high percentage of conservative buyers that will always prefer to shop in-store, both for the experience of trying on the product, and to avoid the hassle and wait times of online shopping.
1. What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
This particular type of algorithm would have many difference valuable applications in the marketplace. With e-commerce being a huge emerging shopping option, the technologies involved in buying products online will be increasing exponentially every year. This means that that items that have traditionally been sold in physical locations due to highly personalized buying processes (such as bras) will be sold online using complex and specific data analysis and algorithms. These types of algorithms could be used for many different personal items such as prosthetic limbs, corrective eye lenses, and even medical devices, which have all traditionally been bought in physical locations due to the device complexities. This case about women’s bras shows that just because an item has been traditionally bought in person, doesn’t mean that it cant be sold virtually with the aid of emerging technologies. I don’t think e-commerce practices will ever replace brick and mortar stores for these types of applications due to the fact that some people are simply skeptical that they can be completely satisfied over the Internet. For some people buying highly personalized items require seeing the physical item and trying it before you even think to purchase it. For these people it might make a lot more sense to simply go to a store and spend some time in the decision making process. Also, some people merely enjoy the physical shopping experience as a social activity and may only use e-commerce for items they don’t enjoy shopping for. People will always have a desire for both kinds of shopping.
1. What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
I think that this algorithm will be very valuable in the marketplace. I like the idea of the algorithm finding the best fitting bra for each person because I know personally how hard bra shopping can be. As well some people do not have easy access to malls with high variety of bras or other clothing/products, this online shopping and algorithm fitting gives consumers options to have products that fit well, where as before they may have been forced to purchase a mediocre bra because of lack of access.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
I don’t think that this will replace brick and mortar stores completely. However, I do believe as technology grows more throughout the years we will see a big decrease in store sales. Today there are still tons of people who grew up without the Internet and online shopping was never a thing, and those people may continue to go into stores to do there shopping, as that’s what they know best. But I believe that as generations evolve and people are growing up with online shopping it will become more popular because it is so convenient. Some people enjoy going into the store and having the intimate experience, trying on multiple items, interacting with sales persons, so I don’t think online shopping will ever completely eliminate brick and mortar stores. I could see myself shopping online a lot more if many websites had algorithms because it would make products more reliable and knowing that the item will fit well upon arrival would be a greater incentive to online shop.
1. What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
Being able to provide virtual fittings to anyone anywhere will certainly change the way the marketplace functions and introduces more or different customers to the product. But it will also take other customers from the mix. People who have trust in the technology and are somewhat tech savvy would benefit from this application. Most people feel like they either have too much help or not enough at a store whereas with this they are able to get just the amount they want when they want or need it. It will also help break the way people look at sizing and make them more customized as they said there are over 2,000 different body types that designers could use to their advantage but have not done so even though there is the sizing technology out there.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
I believe that this e-commerce application will replace the majority of brick and mortar store but not all. Although this algorithm is making people feel like they have more choice and not all choices they believe are best for them are there are still skeptics. Some people no matter how much technology advances will want to go into a physical store and talk to real people because of the experience they get when they are there opposed to an automated system that not everyone trusts due to scams. People also need or like the reason to get themselves out of their houses which by making everything accessible online would make housebound people more housebound and cause a small up rise for people who do like the physical aspect of shopping or even the social aspect of it.
1. What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
This algorithm has the potential to revolutionize online clothing shopping and eliminate the generic small, medium, and large sizing chart. The problem with the traditional small, medium, and large size is that it doesn’t capture the diversity of peoples’ body types and forces them to pick sizes that merely fit the largest part of their bodies making it in most cases unflattering. However, with the data collected from their algorithm, it would be possible to create much more custom-fit clothing for the different body types. By identifying the most common areas of difference between the body types, and varying the clothing based on these areas, it would be easier make more flattering clothing that fit much more comfortably than the traditional sizes. This would popularize online clothing shopping; one of the current fears people have about their online purchases is not knowing how well and how flattering it will fit them. With a more custom based system that utilizes this algorithm, however, now that stress will be alieved.
Furthermore, the algorithm can be utilized to create online stylists. One of the advantages to in-store shopping is that the salespeople can assist customers in finding the best clothing for them. With this algorithm, suggestions for what they should wear based on their body type would be a breeze thus helping customers ensure that their clothing is flattering and attractive for their body type. It would also become possible to visualize what clothing would look like on them through the use of virtual models that share their body type.
1. What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
– Bras are very hard to fit properly for different body types. Having to interact with a stranger to help you find the right fit can be really uncomfortable for some women. The fact that they can make an algorithm for something that complex is really fascinating. I can see this algorithm taking off in the market place. It’s a great idea to send garments of clothing to customer’s houses where they feel comfortable to try it on and take the time they need to decide if they like it. I also think this would produce more sales because some people will be too lazy to send the clothing back even if they aren’t totally sold on it.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
– I don’t believe-commerce will ever completely replace “brick and mortar” type stores. For me personally, I enjoy going shopping and I like the reason to get out of the house more than actually acquiring the products. It’s much like the movie industry; although you can download or stream any box office film online, people enjoy the experience of going to the movies because it’s a reason to leave your house for a night or afternoon. I do think this e-commerce technology will become more rapidly used because there are people who would prefer to buy things online or do other activities online, such as banking.
When I read about the company using the algorithm to send additional “suggested bras” for the consumer to try on, the immediate thought that came to mind was, UPSELL! I am sure we have all had the experience of walking through Costco, trying a sample of a delicious food item, and walking out with said item. I see algorithms that provide suggested products to act in a very similar manner.
Working in sales myself, I know how profitable it is to increase the revenue on every invoice. I can see these algorithms to be very beneficial in the marketplace because they can give the consumer access to a product that they may not have known they were interested in. The costumer also benefits from the convenience of being able to try on the merchandise in their own home and not have to make an impulse decision in the store. At the same time it increases sales for the vendor and allows them to reach a higher volume of customers as well.
I do not believe that this application will ever completely replace brick and mortar stores. Not all consumers are equal and there will always be those that know exactly what they want and want to be able to go somewhere and pick it up themselves. Vendors most likely maximize profits by implementing a combination of both. Certain companies may take a completely one-sided approach, but I don’t think it will become the norm because of the limitations of algorithms.
I can definitely see this application of algorithms being used in all types of clothing sales. A customer could potentially order a few shirts to try on and the algorithm could add in substitute items such as another shirt that it computes the customer may like or even complementary items such as a scarf or pair of shoes that would match. I am guessing the buying rates would be very high. Once someone actually has the clothes on in their own home, a setting where they are comfortable, they will be less likely to send it back/ not purchase the item. They can already picture it in their wardrobe because it is basically already there. I was very surprised reading that 2/3 of one company’s bra sales were online because, as the article mentions, these are very personal items that can be difficult to fit. If this process and algorithm can even work for this very difficult clothing article I think it could be very successful with regular clothing, shoes, outerwear, etc.
I do not think e-commerce will completely replace brick and mortar stores because sometimes shopping is more about the experience than the actual product. Groups of friends and couples may wander the mall for an afternoon activity and buy things that they would not have searched out on line. A customer may need only one thing in the mall but come out with bags from 5 different stores because they had time to spend looking through stores that were not their original purpose for the shopping trip. It can also be a social experience to browse stores and try things on, even if you don’t originally plan on purchasing them. Clothes shopping relies heavily on impulse and unplanned purchases and having only e-commerce as an option may limit the full potential of sales as a company.
1. What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
I believe that this algorithm is very beneficial to the market place. Every person’s body is different which implies that one size or style of clothing won’t fit everyone. The design of the algorithm allows women to ultimately custom order bras that have been personally chosen for their body type. The competitive advantage of this algorithm is the 15 question quiz that it allows you to enter the manufacturer and size of the bra. This allows the database to find the bra that would best fit the user’s body. The beauty of this process is that mostly all different brands of underwear, specifically bras, fit completely different. For example, a woman who wears a 32C at Victoria’s Secret could be a 36C at La Senza. Many women do however prefer to try on and feel the bra before committing to the purchase. The only downfall of this process is the shipping cost and time. Many people who consider shopping online do not follow through just because of how long shipping takes.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
When online shopping first became accessible, many people believed that it would completely replace people physically making purchases instore. For some customers this e-commerce application has, and will replace physically going into the store to make purchases. It has potential for people who live in secluded areas to have access to the same products that someone else has who lives in the city. For others who can easily go to the store to buy products, this e-commerce application will seem more as a hassle because of shipping time and costs, as well as product complications during the shipping process.
I think that this trend is becoming increasingly popular as our society continues to embrace new technology. New advancements in technology have given us the ability to order, customize, and personalize various products online for very little cost to both the producer and consumer. We can then share these products instantly online through social media with our friends and family, who can then order their own custom, personalized items, and so the cycle continues. As this type of algorithm becomes more mainstream and widely embraced by consumers, these algorithms are improved by their creators through the collection of consumer data. These improved algorithms can then be modified for new or expanded applications. For example, the algorithm used for sourcing and properly fitting bras can also be used to assist consumers with finding other clothing items such as blouses.
It is difficult to say whether e-commerce applications such as this would replace traditional brick and mortar stores, but in my opinion, I don’t believe that will happen in the immediate future; however, online sales continue to increase year over year. With online retailers continually attempting to eliminate the consumer’s perceived risk to online purchasing for these types of items, there is a much wider acceptance of e-commerce in society. However, in my opinion, there will always be a demand for the experience of visiting a brick and mortar store for items of such an intimate nature as this. E-commerce is beginning to erode the need for brick and mortar locations for some retailers. Look no further than the now defunct Blockbuster Video, or the struggling Future Shop to see that e-commerce applications like this have the potential to make some traditional retail models obsolete, but it is my opinion that there will always be a demand for traditional retailing, even if the traditional retail model becomes primarily a novelty or a niche.
What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace
I believe applications of this algorithm will be valuable for those who do not quite have the simplicity of access to the stores of this kind. When people live in secluded areas where those certain stores are not nearby this technology will be extremely beneficial in that it allows consumers the possibility to receive the products they want, without having to travel to narnia to do so. This will also be good in a sense for those persons that aren’t able to get to the stores but for those consumers who would prefer online shopping to save time. If algorithms can be used for the ideal bra to benefit consumers of all sorts (not just ladies in today’s society by the way ) the sky is the limit for what this application can do in the retail world.
Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
I don’t think so! Although many consumers will hop on the train of a new way to shop and buy goods, there will still be brick and mortar stores no matter where you go because people like to see and feel in person the things they are buying. There are also people who are not computer literate and would not know how to use a software to shop online. Some people may feel it is less time consuming but the reality of it is by the time you took all the time to submit all the required fields of the algorithm to fit the perfect bra, you would be better off just going and buying the merchandise from a brick and mortar store to your preference.
1. What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
Helping women find the bra that fits them best is the application of this particular kind of algorithm that is valuable in the marketplace. For instance, image a female executive having to sit through a very important meeting with other executives, while wearing a bra so uncomfortable and bothersome due to its poor fit that it distracts her from what is being said in the meeting. Also, what if at the end of the meeting this female executive had to make an important decision about the company based solely on what was discussed during the meeting? Would you want to be in her position? A good fitting bra is really important to the modern career woman. Being comfortable and having very little distractions are the advantages a well fitted bra offers. The application of this particular kind of algorithm can be used in the marketplace to help women, in particular, career women better select bras that fit them best so they can be comfortable while working hard and concentrate on their careers with minimal distractions.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
I do not think this application will replace brick and mortar stores because some women simply prefer shopping in person. Even though shopping online may be more convenient, some women prefer the experience of walking into a store, interacting with sales people, trying on different bras, making their selection and paying at the register. Shopping in person at a brick and mortar store is an experience some women simply enjoy. Moreover, at some point in their shopping experience, most women want actual human contact even if it is only on an occasional basis. The desire to interact with other humans’, even if only for a short period of time is a basic part of life. Real human interaction is a vital component of brick and mortar stores that e-commerce applications cannot replace.
1. What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
-This algorithm is beneficial to the marketplace. Even though there will always be some who prefer the in-person shopping experience over the simplicity and ease of e-commerce, this algorithm does help those who prefer the e-commerce venue. As an e-commerce shopper, I have often had clothing arrive after weeks of waiting only to realize that either I had ordered too big or way too small. I send it back and then wait several more weeks before I receive the actual size I wanted. This algorithm won’t eliminate this annoyance but it will reduce the likelihood of this problem occurring. This will save the consumer money, the producer money and will probably increase the amount of consumers that shop in the e-commerce market.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
-This e-commerce application will not replace brick and mortar stores. There will always be consumers who won’t adjust to e-commerce. There will always be some who simply prefer the real life experience of shopping. E-commerce cannot replace the interaction with the salesperson nor the salespersons’ ability to provide an opinion on the product, something that algorithms will never be able to replace. There will always be women who value the possibility of trying more than five bras on when they are shopping over having to wait multiple days before they can try on their next set of five bras even if it means going to the store in person instead of staying at home. As in this application the producer mails five bras to the consumer to try on and probably doesn’t send anymore until the original five are sent back and received.
1. What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
All bra sizes, even shoe sizes from factories that you purchase from stores such as Wal-Mart all have different sizes then what is read on the tag. For example if you try on a B36 as that’s what you normally wear, but for some reason the B36 bra’s aren’t fitting you. However after trying on several different bras on you discover that the C32’s are. There is always variation between the bra sizes and its time consuming to figure them out. The algorithm is clearly not fool proof, however as stated in the article the algorithm is beneficial for this marketplace as it is effectively helping women purchasing bras online have more success in received a bra that fits then they would when trying on the standard factory sizing in stores. The algorithm is also valuable because I imagine several women who spend hours of trying several bra’s with no zero success is likely to just give up and leave the store having the company loose out on several sales. By having the algorithm the customer is more likely to receive a better fitting bra with more convenience and less hassle which gives the company a better likelihood of concreting a sale.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
When Internet shopping first emerged many people believed that would be the end of people physically going to stores to purchase their products. However with many people still appreciating being able to physically see touch, and try on a product, physically going to a store is still appealing to the majority of the public.
A lot of people still prefer talking to a human being and feel purchasing a product online is more complicated if there’s a problem with the product and need to return it. The “Linda The Bra Lady” claims there’s only a 10% return rate, but the reason that its so low will most likely be that the cost of returning an item can be expensive to the point that keeping it is just easier. The bra’s on the website are also pretty pricey. Even though you get what you pay for, many people aren’t able to afford prices such as that therefore I believe brick and mortar stores shouldn’t be concerned that they’ll completely loose out on their bra business.
What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
Algorithms of this nature are very important for the idea of online shopping. Its taking the guess work out of shopping which most people do not enjoy and reducing it to answering a few questions one time. I could see this being very well used in underwear for women and men. As well the idea of having it choose a full wardrobe for you seems like a huge market to expand in to. Men primarily do not like shopping for clothes and I think would much prefer being able to try on clothes chosen for them in the privacy of their own home.
Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
While I do not see this replacing brick and mortar stores completely I see this more as an extension of the brick and mortar stores reach. If they are able to develop their own algorithms or even purchase existing companies I can see them having the best of both worlds. I store you can go into if you really want to try something on but also the ability to have products mailed to you at home from a respected company. I store like Victoria secret could purchase true and co to ensure that they are staying on top of the market they already dominate.
What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
I think applications of this particular kind of algorithm will be valuable for those who do not have as easy of access to stores of this kind. If individuals live in a remote area where those types of stores are not near, this technology will be extremely useful in allowing them to receive the products they want, without travelling a far distance to do so. This will also be beneficial for those individuals who do have easy access to these stores, but instead of shopping in person, shopping online can save them a great deal of time. If they can create an algorithm for the perfect fitting bra (which sound amazing in itself) I believe there will be no limit for what algorithms can predict.
Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
Although there will be a lot of people who immediately jump to this as their new preferred type of shopping, I do not think that it will completely replace brick and mortar stores. I do think that a large number of individuals will rely almost completely on online shopping, I do not think that will be the case for every individual. Although this algorithm for bra shopping could be a wonderful invention, it has the potential to be just as time consuming as actually buying the bra in a store. By the time you fill out the application for the perfect bra, wait for them to ship 5 to you and then return the ones that did not work, you might have been just as well off to go to the store in person and buy the correct one on the first try.
What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
This particular algorithm is useful for customers that live in a remote area or do not have access to the physical store that they enjoy shopping at. Online shopping diminishes boundaries such as distant location, lack of time, and even the discomfort of shopping in person. This particular algorithm can also be extremely beneficial to the suppliers who decide to use it beyond their customers’ advantage. It allows them to gain excess information such as most common fit or size for each of their customers that fill out the quizzes and apply the algorithm.
Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
Although this algorithm proves to be fairly useful since “women end up buying more of the bras chosen by the algorithm than the ones they select themselves,” I do not believe that this e-commerce application will necessarily replace brick and mortar stores although it may benefit certain customers. Online shopping, as it is today, does not replace the shopping experience that so many women love. At times, bra fitting and selection can be quite tedious and uncomfortable. However, some women may feel as though these costs of purchasing a bra in person are much less than the costs of purchasing a bra online and not being content with it. It is much more difficult, timely, and expensive to buy a bra and return it through the mail rather than actively trying on the bra and knowing within seconds that it does not fit properly. The experience of buying a bra online, waiting for it to arrive, trying it on and finding that it is not quite perfect while spending $50 or more plus shipping is displeasing. However, when the bra is the perfect fit, as it is in many cases, this e-commerce application is a positive addition to the marketplace. The application of this algorithm through e-commerce is an excellent feature that if one combines it with, rather than replacing, shopping in person, it benefits both online shoppers and those that prefer purchasing in person.
Personally I love an algorithm for this kind of clothing concept. Sometimes we as individuals aren’t nessecarirly good ourselves at making perfect decisions, so with an algorithm, they don’t always get it right, but they usually put us in the right direction. Im not a girl, nor have I ever tried on a bra, but this idea that I can tell a quiz what I’m looking for in terms of boxers, or briefs, to find something much more comfy, that maybe I wouldn’t have tried myself before seems like an incredible idea. You can even take this to another level and have restaurants use an algorithm instead of a menu, and attempt to solve the age old response; I don’t know what I want to eat.
The value available seems incredible, but that being said, it won’t replace anything, only add an extra way of helping out a consumer. I say this because some people like going to stores and trying on items, or seeing them in person. This allows people to not have to image what it will look like, or how it will feel but rather get to experience that for themselves. Overall I don’t think this is going to demolish the traditional methods of how we as a consumer currently shop, but it does add a cool new element that I would like to see implemented in different businesses to show all of the possibilities that this algorithm could show us.
Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
In my opinion, using algorithms for bra fittings is actually a very intelligent idea. Using the questionnaires/survey’s to ask personal questions such as size, measurements, preferability, current favourite bra, Etc. is a great way to possibly find your next new favourite bra that could possibly be the best one you have ever purchased yet. Due to the algorithm taking multiple variables into consideration that you have answered for your own personal interest, it automatically comes up with choices based on your preferences; while also giving you different options of bras that will possibly suit you the best that you may have never known of before. I believe that this e-commerce application could possibly take over brick and motor stores because of the vast amount of variability you receive just from answering a few questions and telling a few of your measurements. They deliver bras to you at no cost, and a handful of them at best, using the selected data you have given to the algorithm. You are free to try on all of the bras in the comfort of your own home without feeling pressured by representatives to buy the item based on their overly-pushy and commission seeking ways. If algorithms have been used in various other ways in the array of markets throughout the world, why is it not possible to believe that they could also become the next way for a woman to purchase a bra. It may take time to shift majority of this particular market into an online shopping phenomenon, but so many people have thought many different things would never turn into a popular technology based market and have been proved wrong time and time again.
This algorithm could be useful in multiple different aspects. Not only is it and can it continue to be used online and improved as technology advances but this technology could be used in other aspects, like department stores when trying to locate the product that you want. Not only does it need to be specified to bras but can also be applied many other aspects. Take suit jacket shopping for example, could help with the cutting back on tailor costs if you’re able to find that specific suit jacket that fits your proportions easily in a store or even online. So this technology can be advanced to many other aspects in the online and department shopping industry.
Yes this technology is advancing the world around us and making it easier and more convenient for us to access the goods we want at a click of a button but in the foreseeable future i believe this e-commerce application will not kill the shopping industry. As many people still like going to the mall and seeing what stores have to offer as well as get the customer service and be informed on said products and learn more about when to use certain items and understand more about them. I can se however a heavier reliance on online shopping but I don’t see it completely replacing traditional shopping. You may see this technology being utilized in stores though. As this technology may be used to inform customers as they are in the store and can cut back on time spent searching for that one item that you went in for. Furthermore people sometimes want that product then and there and with online shopping it takes longer to receive said products so that could be the downfall. So as mail and delivery becomes quicker it will be a larger threat but not for a while yet.
With the development of technology and science,algorithms for everything is possible.Many e-commerce use this application,because many people are too busy to go shopping on brick and mortar stores.As we all know that many things online is cheaper than brick and mortar stores,because online business has a low cost,so many people especially young person like to buy things online.But as for me ,the biggest problem is that I always can not buy somethings fit well to me,like shoes,clothes and so on,I even never think that I will buy bra or underpants on the internet,because I think what if I bought the wrong size,I think it is too trouble even if I can change.But now if algorithm applications can use in the marketplace,the success rate of online transactions will continue to rise,this can really improve the efficiency of the distribution chain.But this is a machine or application, and can not completely replace manual,so I still think this e-commerce application can not replace the brick and mortar stores,because many things ,because brick and mortar stores also have many advantages,they can give you service that online shopping can not give you,in the brick and mortar stores,you can touch the real thing,and you can try it by yourself.So,in my opinion,I think some applications still not mature enough,we need to give them more time to improve.
Shopping online for clothing is often very challenging because of the very struggles outlined by Michelle Lamb. Specifically, clothing shopping online is difficult because sizes range from place to place, and it is frustrating to receive an item (after anxiously waiting) that does not even fit. I can see this application of algorithms expanding in the online clothing industry. I foresee this being matched with online social media applications which will also utilize much of the same algorithms. For example, much like Netflix, I can see a social network which suggests clothing purchases based on previous purchases and styles. Furthermore, this will be a network which shares clothing ideas and styles with friends on this platform. I think this would be a valuable application of such algorithms in the marketplace because of the challenges consumer currently face. Current challenges include not finding good clothing online, not fitting into ordered items, and consumers not being able to identify with their styles and sense of fashion. As well, one of my current challenges is knowing what clothing I should by. Do I have too much of one color? Do I have certain things that will even match with a new item? Where can I find something to complete the look I am going for? These are all questions that will be answered with the future application of technology in fashion consumerism. Using algorithms to perfect the purchasing process, but also, market to consumers and welcome open interaction would be a practical and interesting idea.
1. What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
I know a lot of people hate the idea of clothes shopping, and for women, the search for that perfect bra can be exhausting and has built quite a negative reputation. Online transaction processes have been developing and growing in many different markets, and i feel will soon dominate our market even more so. This algorithm can be applied to many different areas to make shopping experiences easier and more efficient. If this algorithm can be applied properly, i believe it will completely change how shopping has always been seen, and make it a more effective process for both the customer and employees.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
I believe in the soon future yes this application will replace the brick and mortar stores. It is already happening is a vast amount of markets. People love the idea of doing their errands from the comfort of their homes and we have already seen these applications and how successful they have been. If people can get the same product in store vs online, why bother making the extra trip? Especially because there is usually more products available online providing you with more options. Shopping experiences have grown such a negative reputation, especially around the Christmas season, and i think people would commit to whatever they could to avoid it. Companies nowadays also offer so many features like free shipping and returns, so customers can eliminate all their concerns with buying online.
1. I think that with the algorithm in place it will draw lots of individuals that feel the same way about the bra shopping experience like Michelle Lam. People that don’t want the hassle of wasting hours shopping for something that they just settle on in the end. With this algorithm or modifications into other markets i think this could be a very valuable tool. This will help make the shopping experience easier and more beneficial not with just bras but with the shoe comparison made at the end or whatever else this algorithms can be introduced into. With this in our marketplace it will give consumers more of what they want and these algorithms can help better predict what we want in most cases better then we know what we want ourselves. This is proven in the fact that with bra sales there were more purchases made with the selections the algorithm made for this individuals over what they selected themselves.
2.
I think that this will eventually replace much of the classic brick and mortar stores. This is my prediction because it is of a much greater convenience to shop online everything is so much easier to do you no longer need to commute you can do everything you need with the click of a button and you are able to find lots of online deals that may not exist within store. Cyber Monday is an example of the benefits of shopping online getting deals they you cant in store and with the amount of things available with free shipping now it is becoming much more beneficial to shop online.
1. In my opinion, I would not be surprised that there would be this particular kind of algorithm in every e-commerce product. As the article suggests, if bras can be purchased and fitted at the customers’ home there would be no reason for the businesses to not jump at this opportunity. Businesses in this case can forego the costs of running stores which include rent, wages, and other expenses that would be required in the traditional sense. This helps increase the businesses profits while keeping operating costs hopefully lower. By selling their products online, businesses should be able to provide the best shopping experiences to their customers in comparison to the traditional brick and mortar style.
2. In my opinion, I personally believe that the future of online shopping will become a forefront to purchasing services and goods. It is an efficient alternative to the store approach as it allows users to enjoy the services in the comfort of their own homes. If the user is buying goods via the internet, they are already willing to wait for a set period of time for the arrival of the product. It is most ideal if they do not have the time to go to the store and browse. Services on the internet are more immediate like banking and investing as users have all the tools right at their fingertips. Depending on how one looks at it, it could be for better or for worse. The use of e-commerce is going to become more or less relevant in the daily lives of people regardless of their opinions due to the ease of use and accessibility.
1. What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
If women can walk up to an electronic kiosk type thing in the store and type in the same kind of information you would on the online store and it spits out the top 5 results on a piece of paper and tells you what area of the store they are in and you go find them. I think this could be more efficient with time because you would not have to worry about returning the bra as you are already in the store. But if there is not enough kiosks in the store to cut down waiting time then the application/technology is pointless. I think wherever we can cut down time with applications like these we should be at least testing them in stores to see if they can increase sales and customer satisfaction. We are headed into a technology dominated world so we might as well embraced it and make it as efficient as possible.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
I do not think this e-commerce application will replace brick and mortar stores for awhile because there will always be the women that like to go out shopping and try things on in the store. Although the process seems a lot less painful using True&Co’s application it seems like it could be just as time consuming because you have to wait for the bras to arrive and then try them on and decide which fits best and return the ones you do not like. On the other hand the algorithm seems to do a good job at selecting at least 2 of 5 bras that a customer likes and wishes to purchase on average. To me this seems less painful and time consuming than standing in a store looking at 100 different bra types and styles and trying to decide what one will fit you in a way you want it to.
1.What applications of this particular kind of algorithm do you think would be valuable in the marketplace?
I think that in the not so near future most of every e-commerce product. If bras can be purchased and be properly fit all from the comfort of your own home, there will be no point for the owners of these businesses to keep running stores and paying sales employees, along with rent for the store, and many other costs that result with running a store. It makes sense from a profit stand point that most businesses selling products online just focus on providing the best possible experience for their customers.
2. Will this e-commerce application replace brick and mortar stores for this application? Why or why not?
From personal experience I do believe in the future online shopping will be the only way to purchases goods. As a teller working at a bank, I this everyday with regards to online banking. Virtually anything the clients want/need can be done online in a more efficient way rather than coming into the bank and waiting in line. As the so called “old school” generations who value customer service in a face to face interaction pass away in the next 20 year or so, they are the people the aren’t technologically intelligent.So i feel that in the next 20 years we will live in a world where everyone is very well equipped to strictly do all shopping online.
Bra algorithms are certainly an interesting idea that I’m not sure I would take advantage of personally. However, I believe that this e-commerce application will continue to gain consumer acceptance and one day even replace ‘real’ stores altogether. My reason? Algorithms like this are already replacing traditional human roles in every market. We no longer need expert crafts and textile workers due to manufacturing lines and machines, why would we need expert bra fitters? Any expertise outside of the IT field appears to be going extinct (I guess it’s time for me to switch to Computer Science.) While these algorithms become more advanced and helpful, human expertise will become less important and ultimately not necessary for effective purchasing. As this happens, employees in physical stores will become less helpful as they depend more and more on computers to do the thinking for them. Why put effort into finding the perfect bra for a client when you can simply ask them to fill out a survey and have all the work done for you? As a result, shopping in physical stores will eventually retain no usefulness at all. And in the end, websites are cheaper to build than stores, clicking is faster than physical shop-browsing, and employee expertise is becoming unnecessary. Is this a good thing? Who knows… maybe we can use the unused physical space to create nature reserves. But then again, who wants to go to outside when they can watch 86 inches of National Geographic in HD without even getting out of bed?