How to Choose the Right Point of Sale System for Your Business

A Point of Sale system, also called a ‘POS’ system, refers to the hardware and software that’s used as replacement for traditional cash registers. POS systems are used at checkout counters of virtually every type of retailer and other places that perform monetary transactions.

A Point of Sale system makes the entire sales process more efficient and can easily handle hundreds of transactions per day. By following some specific guidelines, you can choose the right Point of Sale system for your business.

While a good POS system consists of many different elements, there are three main parts that are integral to its success. The three parts are the scanners, the servers and the pin pads.

Scanners – the scanner part of a POS system keep a tab on the total of the order, and inputs information for inventory purposes. Some of the different types of scanners include hand-held, embedded and long range.

Servers – the server runs all of the software that makes the whole POS system function. There are different types and levels of server, and it’s always important to have back ups in place for recovery in case something goes wrong with the system.

Pin Pads – The pin pad portion of the POS system also include a stripe reader, and is used for debit and credit cards. Since fewer and fewer people are carrying cash these days, the pin pad has become especially important.

When you set out to choose the right POS system for your business, the first thing to do is set a budget for yourself. You may want to use your budget as more of a guide or stick to it exactly, but having one will make sure you don’t go too far over budget.

When making your budget, make sure you factor in other elements like accounting software, terminals, training and your internet connection.

Choosing the right POS system means choosing one that meets the needs of your business. Look through all of the different types of POS software packages carefully, so you pick the one that works best for your business.

  Some systems work better for businesses that

have fewer daily transactions but with big ticket items, while others work better for businesses with hundreds of smaller daily transactions. Once you find the one that’s right for your business, the entire process will start to run more smoothly.

If you really want your POS system to function well all the time, it’s a good idea to purchase all of the different elements from the same company. This ensures everything is compatible and gives you a singular point of contact should problems arise.

When all of the accountability lies with just one company, you can get up and running again faster if problems do occur. Having to contact more than one company is time consuming and may lead to lost sales.

If you have the type of business where customers make repeat purchases, you may want to consider asking for their opinion when you’re about to purchase a POS system. Any little features that make the process more convenient or enjoyable for the customer is going to benefit the business in the long run. Use your feedback to get a system that meets as many of their needs as possible, while also meeting the needs of the business.

Since the Point of Sale system is such an important piece of business equipment, it’s important to buy it from a reputable company. Before you buy, research a few different companies that have proven track records at providing quality POS systems to businesses similar to yours. Make sure they offer all of the customer service and technical support that you will need to operate at full capacity all the time.

  You can also visit businesses that are similar to yours and ask which type of

system they use. The businesses you are looking into should also provide you with any references that you might want. If they seem reluctant, that’s a strong sign to look elsewhere.

  As the very last step in the process, have the company you’re considering

give you a demonstration of their system before you buy. You’re going to be spending a lot of money with them over the next months and maybe even years, so demand a demonstration so you know that the system works perfectly with each element of your business.