The Office Depot Business Solutions mobile app helps simplify the procurement process for small and large business customers. The app is available for free download in Apple’s App Store.

“Our strategy is to allow customers to leverage the power of our sophisticated procurement tools no matter where they are,” said Brock Hirschman, senior director of global ecommerce at Office Depot.

“We continue to identify opportunities to help customers drive cost out of the procurement process and provide them with access to critical information at all times,” he said.

Office Depot provides supplies and services to its customers through 1,627 worldwide retail stores, a dedicated sales force, top-rated catalogs and global ecommerce operations.

Business app
According to Office Depot, the app was specifically designed for business professionals with a smartphone device.

The iPhone app features many of the same capabilities of the Office Depot’s business-to-buiness Web site, such as access to account specific pricing and the ability to use order attributes including internal cost centers and billing codes.

Corporate customers can order via save shopping lists and order tracking.

“We are also in the process of posting information to our online business solutions Web site that will inform customers of the great benefits delivered through the app,” Mr. Hirschman said.

“Mobile supports our key initiatives by allowing customers to choose where, when and how they shop,” he said. “Whether online, in the store, or via their smart phone, we want to provide a best-in-class customer experience.

“The iPhone app is one more way for us to delight our customers, keep them engaged, and keep them coming back.”

Seamless experience
In addition, the app features a built-in approval routing and workflow function that lets managers review and approve orders and requests while away from their desk.

Corporate consumers can approve via the smartphone device.

Additionally, the user’s desktop and mobile shopping carts are synchronized at all times.

“In September, we plan to launch the Android version and we have made significant enhancements to our Blackberry mobile emails,” Mr. Hirschman said. “Our BlackBerry enhancements have helped simplify the process of approving orders by providing a more mobile friendly environment for procurement managers.

“We are also working on some other great procurement tools that will enhance the smart phone experience but we are unable to disclose those at this time,” he said.

Final Take
Rimma Kats is staff reporter on Mobile Commerce Daily, New York