Fusion App Suite

Australia Post explored 'Fusion', an innovative app suite that fused the functions of multiple pieces of store equipment into a single mobile device. With it, frontline staff could remotely scan parcel and merchandise barcodes, scan documents, take identity photographs, and perform various other tasks.

To help identify and elevate the project, a logo was created that depicts multiple streams fusing into one.

Testing was conducted within a live Australia Post store, using real test devices connected to the store's point of sale system.

The barcode scanning function was designed to allow either continuous or manual scanning. Continuous mode greatly increased efficiency when scanning large volumes of parcel barcodes.

Staff often needed to scan various documents for customers. An app was designed that guides staff through the scanning process and sends the output to the point of sale system. The app includes both manual and automatic scanning modes, editing, and ordering functions. As the app is connected to the POS system, the document type and number of pages are known. The staff are then guided through the scanning process, showing the aspect ratio in the viewfinder and the exact number of pages required.

Another item of store equipment that can be replaced with a mobile device is the camera used for identity photographs. The existing process was very manual and prone to errors. A concept was developed to simultaneously capture photos while guiding staff through the strict requirements, such as lighting, head position and facial expression.

The live store beta test proved to be highly successful. Store staff all preferred using the prototype scanning functionality over the usual POS scanner.