Sears adopts universal login standard technology

Hoffman Estates, Ill. Sears Holdings Corp. announced Wednesday that it is implementing a universal login standard, called OpenID, that enables visitors to consolidate their Internet identity by providing them a single login for all of their online interactions.

Sears said it is the first major retailer to launch the platform, which will connect more than 1 million monthly visitors via MySears and  MyKmart sites to major social media communities. This is the first step toward enabling customers to log in to Sears communities using their social IDs rather than set up new accounts. It covers popular Web sites including Google, Facebook, MySpace, Yahoo! and Twitter.

Through this new innovation, users in the Sears and Kmart communities can use the ID and password they already have to write product reviews and can share information on products, services and solutions. Future updates planned with the OpenID platform will allow users in the communities to share their posts and product reviews with friends easily via Facebook.

"Our adoption of the OpenID technology helps simplify our customers' online experience and ultimately helps us meet our goal of ensuring our customers have the most efficient shopping experience possible,” said Rob Harles, Sears' VP community.