Understanding Frontline Workers to Develop User-Friendly Tools

Understanding the attitudes and habits of frontline workers allows for the development of user-friendly tools that people adopt and use. The approach, centered on rapid prototyping and iterative improvement with user feedback, turns employees into co-developers. This encourages ownership and ensures the solutions are truly fit for purpose.

Proven Success with Microsoft Power Platform at NFM Texas

At NFM Texas, knowledge of Microsoft Power Platform was used to create applications that have significantly improved operational efficiency and customer experience.

Examples:

• Payroll Incentive Tracker App

  Simplified the process of submitting pay incentive information, replacing a cumbersome and error-prone email system. This led to more accurate employee payments and reduced the administrative burden on managers.

• CheKowt App

  Addressed the issue of maintaining consistent sales floor coverage during staff breaks. This innovative app, which replaced paper and phone systems, provided a straightforward, four-tap solution to track employee availability. “CheKowt” even gained recognition at a Microsoft meeting of Berkshire Hathaway IT leaders and was featured in a Microsoft case study.

• Rug Finder App

  To enhance the customer experience, the “Rug Finder” app was developed. This tool allowed salespeople to quickly locate rugs using a variety of criteria, including color, size, and brand. “Rug Finder” streamlined the search process by incorporating a barcode scanner and a visual picture flow, resulting in happy customers and quicker sales.

• All In App

  Simplified the calculation of the final purchase price, including rug, pad, protection plan, and tax, further demonstrating a dedication to improving the sales process. This user-friendly tool allowed salespeople to quickly give customers accurate pricing information, resulting in a smoother and more efficient sales experience.

• InStockNow App

  During the COVID-19 pandemic, the “InStockNow” app was created, demonstrating adaptability and responsiveness. This crowdsourced inventory tracking system allowed salespeople to quickly locate available stock, drastically cutting sales time and boosting commission income. A large-type version of the app was even created at the suggestion of a vision-impaired coworker, demonstrating a dedication to inclusivity and accessibility.

Well-Rounded Skill Set: Leadership, Management, and Public Service

In addition to technical accomplishments, experience in leadership, management, and public service highlights a well-rounded skill set. Roles as County Commissioner, Executive Director, and Director of Marketing show that budgets can be managed, strategic plans developed, and teams led to achieve organizational goals.

Contact

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