Facial recognition’s legitimate business use

Tapping into loyal customers

Getting a good deal is a huge motivator for any consumer choosing a place to shop or to eat. But the developers of a future tool believe that offering deals and coupons on certain days can ultimately limit those who visit your location. Instead, you should offer deals and discounts for your loyal customers every time they visit your business. Want to know how Red Pepper suggests you identify your loyal customers? Through their face-recognition software.

The concept of face-recognition software, or face check-ins, has received a lot of heat from people who think it’s creepy and maybe even unprofessional. But it’s all opt-in, so no one’s face will be recognized or matched to their Facebook profile unless they give permission. This provides the anonymity that many consumers desire when it comes to shopping or spending habits while allowing those who want to benefit from a facial check-in to do so.

As a business, should you embrace this up-and-coming technology? We think this new technology would be fun and beneficial for retail stores and food locations, but that it might cross the line at any other type of business. But honestly, you’ll have to use your discretion, no matter what type of business you run.

How the technologies work

If you decide that this facial check-in is something you want to be involved in, you would need to install a facial recognition camera at the entrance of your building. If your customer opts-in through a Facebook app, the app will analyze that customer’s face through tagged photos.

Then, when that customer walks into your business, the camera will match her face with her profile and details. She’ll instantly receive a coupon, discount, or deal as she walks into your business, ultimately rewarding loyal and regular customers the most.

While they’re still working on this new technology, it could be something to bring your business into our modern technological society. It will be a great way to increase and reward customer loyalty and it can be a great marketing tool for potential customers. After all, everyone loves a good deal, especially any time they visit their favorite business.