The future of retail tech with John Shapiro

Retail operations face numerous time-consuming challenges every day. Lightspeed Commerce is solving one of the biggest and most tedious problems: managing complex workflows for SMBs.Today, John Shapiro, Chief Product and Technology Officer, shares how Lightspeed empowers businesses to streamline operations, enhance product usability and leverage AI and machine learning for a competitive edge.Key Takeaways:(01:25) John’s career path from engineering to product management.(02:08) The influence Steve Jobs’ commencement speech had on John’s career.(03:14) Transitioning from software engineering to business operations and product management.(04:03) The shift from desktop software to cloud solutions at Adobe.(05:58) Lightspeed’s focus on complex in-store workflows for ambitious entrepreneurs.(07:21) Balancing default settings and user flexibility in product design.(09:45) Understanding customer problems is vital to drive product development.(13:20) Integrating new technologies and financial services into Lightspeed’s platform.(17:42) Validating market demand before building or partnering on new products.(21:29) The role of AI in inventory forecasting and supplier recommendations.(25:07) Using AI to enhance inventory forecasting and supplier recommendations.(27:50) Balancing simplicity and capability in product design.(29:23) Advice for aspiring product managers on navigating their careers.Resources Mentioned:Lightspeed Commerce -https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightspeedcommerce/John Shapiro -https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnshapiro/Steve Jobs’ Commencement Speech -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF8uR6Z6KLcAny specific guest you’d like to hear on the show? Leave your suggestions at https://www.smbtechinnovators.com/.Thanks for listening to SMB Tech Innovators, powered by Gusto | Embedded Finance, Vertical SaaS, Payroll API. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show.#SMB #Fintech #Innovation #Saas #HR #Payroll #SmallBusiness