The Connected Retail Index was compiled through a combination of desk-based research and store visits:
- 200 UK retailers, selected for inclusion based on aggregated industry listings
- Desk- and device-based analysis of websites and mobile applications
- Store visits to the retailer, with a 20-point checklist. Researchers aimed to choose newer stores, primarily located within the M25
- Where a correction was provided by a retailer, a technology was deemed to be "present" if it was available in the majority (over 50%) of the retailer's total store estate
- Sales colleague interviews where permitted to ascertain depth of interest in and knowledge of the technology available to them, but these did not count towards the final scoring
The index scorecard was created using the following process:
- Researchers identified a number of factors which comprised a connected store experience
- Factors were divided into online and in-store assessments
- A panel of experts from Red Ant independently assigned a score for each element
- Some factors are purely informational and do not count towards the final score, especially where the "correct" answer was deemed highly subjective
- Weightings were averaged and normalised to give a final maximum index rating of 150 points
- Each retailer was assessed against the scorecard and a final score given based on criteria observed - no subjective adjustments were made
To view the index scorecard, get the full report. We welcome feedback on the criteria assessed and weightings given, for inclusion in the next edition of the Index.
