Posts Tagged ‘retail pos’
Your choice in a retail point of sale system is vital to the success and stability of your business. A core system where everything in your business revolves. You should have great confidence in – and receive performance from – the system that’s responsible for all transactions, managing your inventory and all other action in your supply chain and tracking.
Lets walk through some of the important questions you should ask yourself when choosing a Retail System:
What Type Of Business You Own?
POS Systems are typically grouped in 2 separate categories: Restaurant/Hospitality and Retail. Restaurants are somewhat of a different breed – this article focuses on Retail POS Systems.
Within the retail sector, pricing on POS Systems can range from hundreds to tens thousands of dollars. Remember that, different type of POS systems are used depending on the type of business, whether it be a gift shop, self-service Kiosks, or sweet shops and coffee shops.
There are custom features that are great BUT: the most important feature your retail system should have is the ease of use. What good can a custom feature if it’s not user-friendly or buried by other features that you don’t even remember that you have it? Business owners are choosing a much simpler, stream-lined retail POS systems that focuses on the fundamentals and deliver them perfectly. This is why more and more entrepreneurs prefer to use web based point of sale systems to meet their retail computer needs.
Choosing for the right POS computer & software
Do you prefer Windows? A Mac or perhaps Linux? You’ll find great POS Systems that are equally powerful on any of these platforms, so that you can choose whichever you feel comfortable with.
Years ago, POS systems were typically installed as software packages and installed on business computers, much like Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint that come as packaged on Windows operating system. Unfortunately, software based POS Systems present many problems and is exposed to vulnerabilities that small and medium sized business have found worrisome.
About software updates? What will I do if my computer breaks? How do I backup all my business files? What if the computer platform needs reformatting or vulnerabilities suddenly emerge that you do not know how to handle?
These are questions you shouldn’t have to deal with as a business owner- afterall, so why waste money on POS systems that doesn’t perform well and even creates more problems for you? Web based retail systems are solving these problems for most small retailers.
Using a Web-Based Retail System:
- Software patches and features are continually added and updated automatically. You’ll never have to make manual updates your software, downloads and changes. Someone else does the job for you.
- Since this POS solution is web based, you can easily access your inventory using the internet. A computer breaking becomes less of a problem.
- What will you do if your computer suddenly crashes and it cannot be fixed? With a web based POS can easily be recovered even if your actual computer shuts down}.
Is a Dedicated Retail IT Department Needed?
Well, do you?! What small business can afford dedicating employees solely to managing their computers?
When something bad happens with your system, how long can you afford for your business to be “down”? How long will it take you to define your problems on telephone conversations or e-mailing their IT support? How long will it take a technician to arrive to fix your POS System?
That’s why a web based POS is more widely used – an IT staff can log into your system and fix the problem for you. This alleviates many of the support problems inherent of typical desktop software based retail POS systems.
POS Bundles or Mix and Match?
If you’re going to implement POS systems to your brand new business for the first time, you can buy a package that that has every component you will need to start your business immediately… from your computer to your scanners and printers. You can get great discounts for buying POS packages and for several business owners, this is the best idea.
There are other business that still prefer to use their existing hardware. Or, they can be cost conscious businesses that are aiming to achieve affordability through the purchase of refurbished hardware and using existing hardware.
So What’s The Right Choice to Make?
While companies seeking POS Systems are typically looking for customized hardware and traditional software bundles, small and medium sized businesses “in the know” would prefer a web based POS solutions for their flexibility, affordability and overall ability to deliver great results with premium service.
Want to have a qualified POS professional discuss your needs?
You can have more details at Retail-POS-Solutions.com
What is a POS System?
POS stands for Point Of Sale.
This can be defined as the commodities offered for sale, displays and business transactions.
In here, we’ll discuss about the POS software and hardware that runs your business from the operations at the front counter to the back office.
For a small souvenir shop, their basic POS system would consist of a computer, cash drawer, barcode scanner, receipt printer and the appropriate POS software. A service organization, like a lawn care company, will not be be needing a cash drawer or a receipt printer.
But they might want a laser printer for their service invoices.
Then again, you have the ability to easily customize a POS system for your business needs.
Remember that the central nerve of your retail POS system is the computer that runs your POS software.
We understand the temptation of using an older computer or maybe one of the really cheap computer models available at “superstores”.
But keep in mind, once it starts running your business will be depending on this equipment, so a good quality computer is important.
If you seek high quality use custom built POS systems, branded parts will work perfectly for years.
Same goes for all other components you will need.
A basic cash drawer can get the job done, but heavy duty models can last longer because they are built much better.
A CCD barcode scanner is more reliable than the old pencil type wands, but they’re still designed to work with flat, easy to read barcodes.
Laser scanners not only have a greater range, but they also have the ability to scan barcodes on wrap around bottles, bags or follow irregular shapes much better than the CCD models.
Like barcode scanners, the printer technology is also improving. This machine that performs dependably under heavy use of the industry is used to be a dot-matrix printer, and they’re still fairly popular, but thermal printers are faster, quieter and reasonably priced.
UPS or Uninterruptible power supplies, or battery back-ups, are light on the budget and can keep your business up and running during power glitches or short outages. Remember, you will be depending on this equipment. If you’re going to be using it a lot, do not hesitate to use the extra bucks and get the heavy duty models and UPS units.
A retail POS system does not only give you the ability to control over your transactions, it also puts a wealth of info at the palm of your hands.
Imagine being able to compare year to date and month to date sales with just a few keystrokes. A database of your customers can be a powerful marketing tool.
Tracking inventory list, creating order lists automatically and adjusting quantities based on customer demands are just a few of what a retail POS system can do for your business.
Al in all, a POS system helps you keep a constant eye on your bottom line.
For more information to help you choose the right retail point of sale system provider visit Retail-POS-Solutions to receive information on a system designed for your specific business and retail business needs.
The author of this article is a retail POS sytem professional who has been counseling businesses of all sizes from single locations to national chains for over 20 years.
Retail Point of Sale (POS) System Overview
Since retail POS systems is a vital part of your business, choosing a POS dealer is a big decision – greater in many ways than the decisions you make about your POS software and hardware. Price can be an issue, but you’ll surely get what you pay for, so it is neccessary to do your research before going to a POS dealer. We have some info that can help you make sure if your retail POS dealer is capable of proving your needs, as well as dedicated in supporting your business.
POS Support
Customer support is vital for the installation of your POS systems. Make sure you know exactly what your POS dealer provides in terms of response times, product replacements, and telephone support. This is the single most important aspect when planning to purchase POS systems.
POS Installtion
Quality POS systems installation can have lasting effects which will benefit your business for a very long time. Qualified installers will not take a standardized approach to installation: first, they’ll analyze your needs, test your existing infrastructure, including power lines, and they make sure you get a system that is customized to your business needs. During the first week or two of using a POS system will determine whether it does exactly what you need or not, so a well-tested installation is important. Ask how often the POS dealer will be on site during and after your launch – only after the system is up and running, or will they pay a vist after and answer the inevitable questions that arise?
Experiencing POS
As with any major business purchase, potential vendors’ experience in the industry is also important. However with POS systems you can go farther: research the experience of the retail POS vendor has in providing systems to other retail establishments with the same business as yours. internet cafe’s differ in needs with a boutique store, and a county kitchenette varies considerably from a sit-down sushi restaurant. Good POS salespeople will ask you about your business, what your needs are, then provide a solution that is appropriate for you.
Facilities
Visiting POS dealers’ facilities can be a great way for you to know how they operate. You will be able to check out their repair shop and get a sense of how busy they are. You may want to ask for an organizational chart or a tour of their help desk. According to your support needs, distance may or may not be important to you – if you want to rely on phone support and shipping components back for repair, it will not matter, but if you expect field technicians to come visit you, distance from the POS vendor can be a factor.
System Demonstrations
If you want to make sure how the system operates, nothing works better than giving it a test drive. Some POS vendors allow live demos, which gives you an advantage of seeing how the hardware is set up and how will it look in your location. While other vendors will invite you to try the system in their office, which gives you that facilities tour we’ve discussed above. Either way, we strongly recommend an in-person demo if you are not familiar with POS systems.
References
Another familiar way to investigate POS dealers that’s right for your business is to ask for references to other customers – youhave to make sure that you’re asking for references with the same business line as yours. Of course, you will be referred to the vendor’s most satisfied customers, but you can still learn a little more from them. Below are some sample questions you might want ask the references:
- How did POS systems changed your business?
- What do you wish you had done differently?
- Have you needed any support or repairs? What kind of respond did you receive from the POS vendor?
- Do you know of any one else who uses this system? — By this you can get additional references to call, and some may be more honest in their advices.
Don’t be afraid to ask for a reference that dislikes the dealer, as well. Every business has unsatisfied customers from time to time, and you can certainly learn from them.
Return policies
You may get a return policy but that depends on the manufacturer, not all of them issues warranties that ables to get repairs or replacements, and even returning an equipment is more difficult. Many POS dealers charge hefty restocking fees (0 and up) for returns on complete systems; while some vendors may allow you to exchange individual pieces of hardware for others, but some do not accept returns at all. Again, make sure you read carefully their policies before you sign a contract.
How can you find the right retail Point of Sale system provider for your business?
A convenient way to receive multiple quotes for retail Point of Sale (POS) systems though the web at: Retail-POS-Solutions.com
The author of this article is a retail POS system expert with over 20 years experience serving the needs of businesses just like yours.
Are you in the process of looking at a new computer system? Regardless of whether you are looking at a system for your office or retail business, there are a couple of things you should keep in mind when installing systems that will help run your operations and store all of your critical data.
1. Network cabling. The majority of systems are PC-based, designed to run on Microsoft Windows technology. This means that all parts of your system will communicate over standard data cabling. Even though wireless communications have become increasingly popular for home and office environments, I would still prefer to “hardwire” your computer stations. Some vendors include this service in their bid; others specify that cabling must be contracted through a third-party vendor.
Regardless of who does the cabling, it will need to be completed and tested before installation of the equipment. Each peripheral will be needing a cable drop. A cable drop is the wiring between a your equipment and its Ethernet transceiver.
For a retail business POS system, the retail business should be wired with CAT 5 or 6 network cabling that runs from every conceivable POS workstation, remote printer or KDS, office computer, hostess station, delivery order desks, cashier stations and network server to a “home run” area such as a central patch panel, preferably located in your telephone or electrical room or closet. Cabling routes need to ensure that cables are at least 24 inches from fluorescent fixtures, neon transformers and electrical motors, as these devices can cause communications interference.
2. Electrical. Install dedicated and isolated circuits that all of your POS, computers, network devices such as hubs and routers, and phone systems can share. No other equipment should be on the same circuit. I would prefer getting your network, phone, and electrical service to be near to each other. An isolated circuit means that the circuit has a ground path that is isolated from that of the main electrical service. This helps prevent spikes and surges that can disrupt motherboards and hard drives. Note, however, that you’ll still want to use surge protectors at each workstation.
3. Well thought-out workspace. When it’s time to design workstation areas, be sure to leave ample space to comfortably fit your needed equipments. Tabletop space for server stations should be large enough to place your computer monitor, guest check printer, and possibly a credit card terminal if you plan to use separate credit card equipment. There should be enough space directly underneath the counter to hold the computer, surge protector, power strip and a battery backup (UPS).
If you plan to place your workstations on mill-manufactured top such as granite or woodwork, you may want to have your contractor pre-drill holes if needed to run cables or power cords beneath the surface. A 2-inch hole should be enough space for cords and cables on most POS systems.
For your cashier and bartender stations, the tabletop space should also be ample enough to fit a cash drawer and an order confirmation customer display. Most cash drawers have a space requirement of 15- to 17-inch depth; 16- to 20-inch width; and 3.4 to 5 inch vertical height. So better make sure you get the drawer specifications from your supplier in advance if you are building a custom countertop for your drawer to fit perfectly in.
4. Efficient Service Plans. Vendors will offer a comprehensive service plan as part of your purchase. The fact is, business grade systems are composed of materials that are not built to last forever especially in retail businesss. POS printers will eventually break, fans will fail, and hard drives will crash. How often depends on the environment that the retail POS system operates. Dirt, dust, heat and moisture are not friendly allies to office and restaurant POS equipment.
There are those people who rarely experience problems wih their computers while others continue to suffer the same problems. The best thing a retail business owner can do is to invest in good equipment and maintain it to prevent future damages. Many retail business POS solutions provider will offer ongoing service plans that are basically extended warranties. The annual cost for these services usually ranges from 10% to 20% of the original purchase price.
Computer systems are not an inconsequential cost. But if you dedicate the time and planning required to properly put in place and maintain the system, you are more apt to be rewarded a return on your investment by getting the most from your system in cost reduction, labor savings, and ensuring that you can account for all cash.
The Author is the Vice President of Customer Relations at Retail-POS-Solutions.com. With over 20 years of retail business experience, POS-for-Retail businesss.com helps ensure that your technology is more efficient and your business more profitable.
A Restaurant POS System (or Point of Service System) could be any POS terminal, hardware and software combined which is the the equivalent of an electronic cash register, used to process a transaction. A restaurant has many factors which makes the whole business function effectively. A restaurant POS terminal is used to accelerate sales transactions and secure the customers payment. Point of Sale means the transaction point, any location within a retail establishment where transaction occurs.
For a restaurant, there are lots of moving parts that’s involved for it’s performance. Having a restaurant POS Software can greatly help in managing staff attendance and performance, the inventory system, accounting and customers’ details, is a big help for any retail business owner improve his business’ performance. How? With features that provides powerful tools to help manage employee and customer data, a restaurant POS system increases both efficiency and profits.
Customer Satisfaction Increases Profit
Customer satisfaction is one of the most important factors you must be aware of, by meeting your customers’ expectations on your products or services, you’ll get a higher chance of customer return. The more customer returns you get, the higher your profit is! So your job, as the owner, is to make sure your employees are properly and accurately giving orders, provide assistance to customers and make an overall great performance all the time. Using a POS software, with touch screen technology, can greatly increase ordering accuracy and decrease ordering time by 50%.
Because your goal is to increase your profit, many retail POS vendors have developed systems that when combined can produce excellent results like the POS systems that enables you to integrate your accounting software such as QuickBooks and Peachtree. With a POS software like these, you can rest assured that all your financial data will be up to date, accurate and can even print sales report on any POS terminal just with the touch of a button!
Improving inventory management can be a hassle. Manual handling and updating of your inventory can be a lot of hassle, it’s both time consuming and costly. Install a proper POS software that can help accelerate inventory management, you will see and increase in efficiency with its advance management features, you can associate any information with the items as well, such as purchase date or date of expiry, you will never have to back to manual system ever again.
Difficulties with ordering system. Placing an order should have the right timing, order too late and you will run out of an item, order too soon can cause a risk of the item going bad. Installing automated inventory management enables you to increase the efficiency of your products orders, set a special alert to notify you and your staff when you’re running low of items so you’d be able to re-order for them, as well as setting up notifications to alert you on nearing expiration dates. So if your restaurant still doesn’t have POS software for inventory management the time is now to do so.
Having Restaurant POS Solutions Fights Leakage
Having a good restaurant POS solution for your business can decrease shrinkage up to 10%. Since all data is digitally recorded, you can easily view reports, see every sales transaction made by your employees, and check if it’s accurate. By this, can ensure the safety of your profit and also ensure an easier way to investigate profit loss.
The information above is just the introduction of what a restaurant POS systems is and the advantages a good POS software can do for your business. I recommend you go online and do researchbefore purchasing any POS terminal as there are many comparison shopping sites that offer a wealth of information. You may also request for a free POS system quote where suppliers serving your area can send you their competitive price lists.
For more information or to have a local POS professional serving the restaurant industry in your area help you go to POS-For-Restaurants.com