By Paul Fulton, Jr., Vice President

Undoubtedly, privacy is one of the hottest issues at this year’s National Retail Federation (NRF) annual convention and EXPO.  Attendees are on high alert for solutions that will protect their shoppers’ identities – while providing the data and analytics needed for operational performance.

We are at NRF with our client, Irisys, the world leader in the integration of discreet infrared technology and intelligent software that helps deliver faster checkout lines, cleaner facilities and higher security perimeters to retail operations, publicly and privately owned buildings, airports, security systems, quick-serve restaurants and other facilities.

While Irisys’ infrared technology captures powerful analytics, the consumer’s identity is captured only by their body heat – preserving privacy and helping to alleviate potential liabilities for the retailer.

This year, Irisys is launching its new intelligent analytics platform, Gazelle.  Gazelle uses Irisys’ intelligent thermal sensing technology to discreetly detect people’s body heat to track and interpret their presence and direction of movement. Algorithms combine behavioral and spatial analytics to yield performance data such as footfall, traffic flows and penetration of people.

For you and me – this means shorter checkout lines – and better identity protection.