The National Cash Register Company, now known as NCR Corporation, has a rich and intriguing history that dates back to the late 19th century. Here’s an overview, along with some fun facts and lesser-known details:
Early History
1. Founding and Invention:
- The company was founded in 1884 by John H. Patterson in Dayton, Ohio. Patterson purchased the patents for the mechanical cash register invented by James Ritty in 1879. Ritty's invention was initially called "Ritty’s Incorruptible Cashier."
2. Innovation and Growth:
- Patterson was a visionary in business practices and quickly improved the design and functionality of cash registers. He implemented a bell that rang every time the cash drawer was opened, which not only made transactions more secure but also became a recognizable feature of early cash registers.
- Patterson introduced the first sales training programs and created the concept of the sales pitch, which was revolutionary at the time.
Fun Facts
1. Company Culture and Salesmanship:
- NCR was known for its rigorous sales training, famously called "The NCR Primer." Salesmen were taught to be relentless and persuasive, often through role-playing and strict drills.
- The company was one of the first to offer a money-back guarantee, which built customer trust and boosted sales.
2. Marketing Pioneers:
- Patterson is credited with many marketing innovations, including direct mail advertising, and he was among the first to use color in advertising.
3. Labor Relations:
- NCR was ahead of its time in terms of worker benefits. Patterson established employee welfare programs, which included health and safety measures, a company cafeteria, and recreational facilities.
Unknown and Interesting Information
1. Dayton Flood of 1913:
- NCR played a crucial role during the Great Dayton Flood of 1913. Patterson organized a massive relief effort, turning the company’s facilities into a center for rescue and aid. This act significantly bolstered the company’s reputation and the community's goodwill towards NCR.
2. Technological Advancements:
- In the 1950s, NCR was a leader in the transition from mechanical to electronic cash registers. They developed the first all-transistorized business computer, the NCR 304, in 1957.
- NCR also contributed to the development of magnetic stripe technology used on credit and debit cards, which revolutionized banking and retail industries.
3. Influence on Computer Technology:
- In the 1970s, NCR became a key player in the development of early computer systems. They introduced the NCR Century Series, a line of mainframe computers that were used in various industries.
4. Legacy of John H. Patterson:
- Patterson's influence extended beyond NCR. His managerial and sales techniques were studied and emulated by other business leaders. Thomas Watson, who worked for NCR, went on to found IBM, carrying many of Patterson’s principles with him.
5. Birth certificates:
-Eveey national cash register was made specifically for the end user. Buttons were added and changed from the standard model depending on denomination the customer needed. Every National cash register has a "birth certificate" on the bottom of the cash drawer denoting who the cash register was made for and the date it was made.
Decline and Rebirth
1. Challenges:
- By the late 20th century, NCR faced significant competition and underwent several restructurings. In 1991, it was acquired by AT&T but was spun off again in 1997 as a separate entity.
2. Modern Era:
- Today, NCR Corporation is a global technology company that provides a range of services, including ATMs, point-of-sale systems, and self-service kiosks.
The story of NCR is one of continuous innovation and adaptation, reflecting the broader technological and economic shifts of the past century.
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