IoT Platform for Electronic Shelf Label Management
We built a platform that unites thousands of electronic devices across retail floors into a single managed ecosystem. A Skolkovo resident project.
Betterstore
How do you manage thousands of devices across a retail floor?
Electronic shelf labels are not simply displays. They form a complex IoT infrastructure: labels, electronic shelves, dongles, and readers. Every device must receive up-to-date data, operate reliably, and update in real time.
The client needed more than a label admin panel — they needed a full IoT network management platform: device health monitoring, fault diagnostics, mass firmware updates, and a user-friendly interface for store staff with no technical background.
Research → Prototype → Product
Field Research
We conducted fieldwork in hypermarkets and smaller retail locations. We studied paper label workflows, identified bottlenecks, and mapped failure scenarios at every stage.
Prototyping & Testing
We designed interface prototypes and tested them with real users — store staff, installation engineers, and technical specialists. Several iterations preceded the first release.
Platform Development
We built a web platform for IoT network management: device monitoring, diagnostics, mass firmware updates, and label content management. Stack: React, Python, C++.
Deployment & Iterations
After the first release we ran in-store observation sessions. Each subsequent iteration improved the system based on real data — not assumptions.
A unified platform for the entire IoT infrastructure
Real-Time Monitoring
Status of every label, shelf, and dongle on a single dashboard. Instant fault diagnostics and automated alerts.
Mass Firmware Updates
OTA updates for all devices in the network. Firmware version management, rollback on failure, and inter-network traffic control.
Interface for Non-Technical Users
A simple UI for store associates and installation crews. We produced documentation and conducted training — the learning curve is minimal.
Mobile App for Merchandisers
We built a Flutter app for associating products with labels. It supports both online and offline modes and handles complex workflows. The intuitive interface means any employee can use it without prior training.
From prototype to chain-wide rollout
The platform has been deployed across multiple store locations and is ready for full chain rollout. The system reduced price update time from hours to seconds and eliminated all manual pricing errors.
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