You just invested months evaluating tech vendors at every retail conference from Shoptalk to Groceryshop and NRF. Your project budget is approved. Your team is excited. But here's the harsh reality: retail technology graveyards are littered with expensive computer vision failures that promised transformation but delivered disappointment.

The difference between success and becoming another cautionary tale? Following a proven implementation playbook instead of relying solely on the promises made during the vendor pitch.