Retail Chains - OfficeMax launches in-store pickup of online orders - Internet Retailer

I found this article, and thought it might be interesting to any retailers who want to allow customers to order online and pick up orders at the store the same day. While the concept seems simple, there are many moving parts and potential barriers to success.

The implementation of this starts with integrating store and online systems so that you can determine whether or not all items the customer would like can be filled at the local store.
 
The second part of this is managing a process that will alert in store associates to a new order and determining the best way to manage the order releases to meet customer expectations yet still perform the work efficiently. Then, the order needs to be picked (from either open stock or back-room) and prepared for customer pick-up. Lastly, the merchandise needs to be accounted for as sold (order fulfilled).

What are your thoughts about allowing customers to order online and pick-up their order at the store within hours?

Retail Chains - OfficeMax launches in-store pickup of online orders - Internet Retailer