Staples’ Easy Button Integrates with IBM’s Watson

Staples said Tuesday (Oct. 25) that it has entered a new phase of its Staples Easy System pilot program, which now includes the “Easy Button” office supply reorder function. Through that function, IBM’s Watson technology helps streamline office supply reordering processes for Staples Business Advantage customers.

The office supply giant said in a release that the Easy System allows for ordering across locations and devices, across the Easy Button function, an app, text, Facebook Messenger or Slackbot. The combination with Watson allows for users to “tap into” a conversation service, with quick reordering of supplies and shipment tracking. Watson also has cognitive capabilities built into the system, which dovetail with Staples’ API and which allow Staples Easy System to learn more about businesses’ needs over time, such as the products they prefer and the quantities typically ordered.

In a statement, Faisal Masud, executive vice president of eCommerce and customer experience at Staples, said: “Staples and IBM have combined the power of Watson technology with Staples’ expertise in helping small and medium businesses to transform how companies shop for everything they need for their office.” The firms said that the Easy Button is being rolled out through alpha test in Austin, Texas. That will be followed by a broader beta test in both Austin and New York.