Abstract (summary)
Hannaford Bros. is on the verge of a financial commitment to the network computer (NC), side of the debate in expectation of significant cost savings over the personal computer (PC) route. The Scarborough, Maine-based retailer is currently testing a dozen IBM Network Stations, Big Blue's business-targeted NC entry, with a view toward replacing the aging array of PCs and DOS-based systems now in use in its 150-odd stores. For a full-chain roll-out, the equipment alone will cost about $1.7 million. Hannaford has built an intranet, which it wants to use to do things like deliver merchandising plans, training packages, and e-mail to all its stores.
