Technology — untethered

Network cables and printouts are so last decade. These days, technology providers are specializing in virtual tools to help you do business. Here’s a roundup of the latest/greatest offerings for garden retailers…
 

What is it? AppNinjas Swipe for iPad (and there’s one for the iPhone, too!)
Why it’s cool: The Swipe mobile payment application from AppNinjas allows anyone who does business outside a traditional retail setting to quickly and easily accept credit card payments on their iPhone or iPad. (An Android device is coming soon.)
Learn more: www.appninjas.com

What is it? PAYware Mobile Enterprise from VeriFone.
Why it’s cool: It’s big on security. The system integrates mobile payment devices into a PCI-compliant environment and drastically reduces a merchant’s risk profile. The solution incorporates a PCI-approved PIN debit keypad, (enabling lower transaction costs), and a 2D bar code scanner for quick mobile check out or inventory control tasks.
Learn more: www.verifone.com/payware-mobile-enterprise/overview.aspx
 

What is it? Burpee Garden Coach mobile web tool.
Why it’s cool: Through text messages and web-based interaction via mobile phone, the Burpee Garden Coach supports gardeners for the whole lifecycle of their vegetable plants — from choosing, growing, maintaining, harvesting and eating.
Learn more: www.burpeehomegardens.com

What is it? m.bonnieplants.com, a mobile web address for Bonnie Plants.
Why it’s cool: This mobile site is like a plant tag with no space limitations. Thus it gives your gardening customers valuable information on varieties, how to plant and harvest, and even recipes that plant tags just don’t have room for. While you’re at it, check out www.pallensmith.com/bonnieapp for cool projects to share.
Learn more: Direct your smartphone’s browser to m.bonnieplants.com

What is it? GardenQuest from 10-20 Media.
Why it’s cool: This new 3D gardening game will reach prospective gardeners in a realm they’re comfortable with—the virtual gaming world. Garden Quest promises a realistic setting with real world plants, garden products and awesome graphics.
Learn more: www.10-20media.com/gardenquest.html or “Like” GardenQuest on Facebook. The game’s designers are posting frequent updates on their progress and sharing sneak peeks.

What is it? MofuMobi, a new app from SBI Software.
Why it’s cool: This app for iPhone and Android gives users direct access to business reports, customer contact information, weekly and monthly sales figures, and more. All info from the app is live; meaning, if data changes in the SBI system then the updates are automatically reflected correctly in the app—no synching or uploading required. Learn more: www.sbiteam.com

What is it? PRO Landscape design software.
Why it’s cool: It takes your landscape/garden consults to the next (virtual) level. The software is easy-to-use, allowing you to efficiently assist both DIY and full-service customers. It includes photorealistic imaging, lighting, CAD, estimating and 3D in one easy-to-learn program.
Learn more: www.prolandscape.com

What is it? A free app from Bonide Products.
Why it’s cool: This application (for iPhone, iPad and Android) allows users to search for solutions by plant, insect, disease, weed, or pest and receive information on Bonide products to solve their specific problem. It guides users to the correct product, and will display the corresponding product image and label, providing specific pest control information.
Learn more: www.bonide.com, or search for “Bonide” in the iTunes store or Android Market.

What is it? Mobuyle from Heartland Payment Systems.
Why it’s cool: It enables merchants to accept credit, debit and gift card payments through their smartphones or mobile devices. It’s a great way to create extra point-of-sale payment terminals and “line bust,” or dispel long checkout lines. (Sound like spring?)
Learn more: www.heartlandpaymentsystems.com/Mobuyle/

What is it? Gardenware Software.
Why it’s cool: It allows you to change your label/tag/sign strategy at a moment’s notice. The software is designed specifically for the nursery industry. Gardenware products are laser-compatible, so no special-purpose equipment is needed. The combination of the laser’s dry toner and Gardenware’s waterproof materials result in durable, waterproof labels and signs.
Learn more: www.gardenware.com

What is it? Botanical Interests iPhone app.
Why it’s cool: It allows users to search the Botanical Interests seed catalog for growing information and gardening tips. Saving information to a “favorites” list will help with garden planning and users can organize searches based on a number of variables, such as harvest time and lighting conditions.
Learn more: www.botanicalinterests.com or search for “Botanical Interests” from you iPhone.

What is it? Paperless receipts from SBI Software.
Why it’s cool: It speeds up customer checkout, helps eliminates lost receipts and cuts down on paper waste. The receipt is sent as an attachment to an HTML email; which can include care info for the purchased plants and marketing messages (hot products, specials, coupons, etc.).
Learn more: www.sbiretail.com

What is it? Custom sign-making tools from BigSystems.
Why it’s cool: Because today’s customers expect a professional presentation. Cut-out vinyl letters and amateur graphics just won’t fly with Gen X and Y. BigSystems offers a wide range of printer options and accessories that make sign-making cost- and labor-efficient.
Learn more: www.bigsys.com

What is it? Epicor Eagle, a Windows-based point-of-sale system.
Why it’s cool: It caters to today’s “immediate gratification” culture with advanced search tools and the ability to place and manage special orders. Plus, you can add on a fully integrated loyalty and gift card program to keep customers coming back.
Learn more: www.epicor.com