On a recent business trip, I noticed a store across the concourse with an innovative electronic gated access system. The concept was straightforward: swipe or scan a credit card to enter, pick your items, and exit with a seamless checkout process. The store had a sleek, inviting design, with rows of products under the watchful eye of numerous cameras—an apparent glimpse into the future of retail. As someone with over 20 years in IT and as a Solution Architect, I’m naturally intrigued by emerging technologies . I constantly evaluate innovations by weighing their benefits and drawbacks, looking for out-of-the-box ideas that drive meaningful change. This store’s approach initially struck me as a break from the norm, but as I observed more closely, I noticed some significant challenges. Innovation vs. Usability: A Critical Balance While the technology powering this store was impressive, its execution was another story. I watched as potential customers stopped at the entrance, looking...