What is a Retail Queue Management System?

A retail queue management system (aka buzzer or pager) streamlines customer queues for businesses that receive large volumes of in-person customers visiting premises like a retail store, service counters, and so on. 

Instead of making your retail customers or counter customers join long queues in a line or crowd around the counters waiting for service, the queue management system will advise the customer when it is their time to be served, enabling them to browse your store or visit other nearby areas.

Notifications of when it's your customer's time to be served can be delivered through a paper ticketing system, SMS message, kiosk, television screens, buzzers and more. 

Australian Examples of Retail Queue Management Systems

There are plenty of private and public sector examples of businesses using Reail Queue Management Systems in Australia, including:

At the Chemist

You may have already experienced the technology when visiting a Chemist Warehouse, for example.

Once you have submitted your prescription, you are handed a buzzer that will activate when it is ready to be collected, or you will receive an SMS.

This enables you to continue to shop in the chemist instead of standing in line. 

At a Public Service Centre

Government agencies such as Service NSW, Vicroads, and various councils often use the technology when you are waiting to speak to a customer service team member.

At the front, you can select the reason for your visit on a computer or iPad, and then you will be issued a ticket with a number on it. 

Then, when it's your turn to be served, your ticket number and the counter you can visit will be displayed on a screen. 

Telstra

Telstra uses queue management systems in its retail stores to manage customer flow, reduce wait times, and improve overall customer experience.

These systems help streamline service for customers seeking assistance with mobile plans, technical support, and other services.

Apple (Australia)

Apple Stores in Australia utilise advanced queue management systems, particularly during product launches and peak periods. These systems help manage customer flow, appointment scheduling, and service requests, ensuring a smooth and organised shopping experience.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)

CBA employs queue management systems in a number of its branches to efficiently handle customer appointments, walk-ins, and service requests. This technology ensures that customers are served in a timely manner, enhancing the overall banking experience.

Other Advantages of Retail Queue Management Systems

Using a QMS will improve the customer experience and enable you to keep track of how many visitors have been served, average transaction times, most efficient team members, and so on.

This data can be useful in day-to-day management and for future planning. 

You can also prioritise different customer support types.

For example, you may have two customers, one wanting to inquire about your products and services (a sales opportunity) and one wanting support for an existing issue.

You can choose who gets served as a priority... 

Search Retail Queue Management Vendors in Australia

Numerous retail queue management options are available for managing your in-store queues, so reach out to the vendors below. They will be happy to help you with available options, pricing, and demonstrations.

If you are looking for queue management specifically in a call centre, click here to search suppliers of call centre technology or use the search filters to find suppliers of our technology solutions for managing customers and/or improving the customer experience.