June 27, 2021
Good data cuts through bad behavior. When we have good data and use it to coach and train, we see bad behaviors corrected. It is often said to inspect what you expect, but some also like to use data analytics to help keep an eye on the behaviors they want to see and to look out for those they want to end.
Shrink is an everyday part of most C-Store operations. It is not always easy to control. By watching patterns of behavior by cashiers at the POS register, it is easy to pick out those that may not be working as they should. Not every void is theft and note every theft has a cash register event. Many losses, however, follow patterns that can be traced.
Inspect with Good POS Data
Most employees will work as you need with proper guidance. However, those with bad intentions willing to take advantage of trust often have a lot of experience. Many of those that do steal start with small transactions and monitor the response. A lot of the times they increase the amounts. Eventually, the amounts get so big it is noticed. Effective monitoring techniques allow supervisors to spot the trends earlier and save money and headaches. Good operators report that using the data to coach and correct makes a big difference. That is, consistent use of data to show specific actions, avoids personal issues and instead focuses the talk on the important changes that are needed. That is, good data cuts through bad behavior by stopping things that should not be happening.
Cuts Through Bad Behavior
Of course, a lot of the ‘shrink’ behavior is not really theft – just mistakes. However, if the mistakes are not corrected it becomes harder to see the ones with bad intentions. Whether the mistake is an honest one or not, keeping track and addressing problems early keeps the mistakes to a minimum and makes it easier to spot the bad actors.