Woolworths deploys support app on Google engine

Woolworths has developed a custom app on the Google App Engine that enables store managers to log support requests from their corporate iPad devices.

The retail giant's head of Run IT, Damon Rees, said in a blog post that the custom app, called Tap for Support, "allows staff to log a support ticket with Woolworths HQ... for example, to fix a faulty freezer".

The app was created by Cognizant Technology Solutions, according to a report by The Australian.

"Having Tap for Support running on Google App Engine means we leverage Google's infrastructure, not just to host and store the app, but to build it as well," Rees said.

"This removes many layers of complexity, and the simple licensing on consumption structure means it can scale very quickly when we need it to."

Rees also noted that Woolworths' 890 supermarket store managers had been given a Gmail account.

The Australian reported that the iPad rollout had been undertaken in just eight weeks.

Staff received the 16GB third-generation iPads equipped with Optus 3G SIMs at the conclusion of the retailer's national conference.