News

Netkey launches new version of software platform

May 26, 2005

CHICAGO - Netkey Inc. announced in a news release the launch of Netkey 6.5, its latest version of Netkey's software platform for retail self-service and digital-merchandising management.

Netkey 6.5 offers an advanced environment for the development, deployment and operation of retail applications and store technologies. Its capabilities are designed to help retailers increase the performance and reliability of their self-service systems.

The platform includes two integrated modules - Netkey Designer, an application development environment, and Netkey Manager, which allows remote management of self-service applications and devices.

The platform supports new and existing retail self-service applications, including gift registry, job recruitment, employee HR portals, customer loyalty systems, deli and quick-serve ordering, product information and locator.

"We've made significant advancements with this release that meets our customers' need for an enterprise-level self-service management platform that can be easily deployed across a wide range of technologies in the retail enterprise," said V. Miller Newton, Netkey's chief executive.

IBM and Borders Inc., a subsidiary of Borders Group Inc., recently inked separate deals with Netkey.

IBM will use Netkey 6.5 to support of its Anyplace Kiosk, and Borders will use the software platform to support expansion of its Title Sleuth kiosk network.

The deals were announced this week during the Retail Systems 2005 Conference and Exposition in Chicago.

The Anyplace Kiosk is a compact kiosk that combines an infra-red touchscreen and optional peripherals.

"The combination of the IBM Anyplace Kiosk and Netkey 6.5 offers retailers and other customer-focused businesses the most powerful and cost-effective way to extend self-service applications to the store environment, and do so with a solution that minimizes the daily maintenance burden on already stretched retail IT departments," Newton said.

Borders' Title Sleuth self-service computer stations, which are located in most of Borders' 460 U.S. locations, allow customers to locate books, CDs or movies in any Borders location. Title Sleuth also provides customers with title recommendations and calendars for in-store events.

Borders deployed its Title Sleuth stations with Netkey software in 2000. Now Borders is expanding its use of Netkey by licensing the complete Netkey 6.5 platform.

"Borders is known as a leader and innovator in the strategic use of self-service in its stores, and we look forward to delivering the software infrastructure to support these customer-centric technology initiatives."