A point of sale system or POS is a deal maker or breaker in any business. It is needless to say it’s so much more than a fancy cash register, as it integrates the role of keeping tabs on your sales, inventory, customers, and employees.

With a plethora of options on the web, we give you our take on the essential points that should be considered while choosing a POS system. This will ensure that your business can glide smoothly towards productivity and efficiency.

• The various features offered

POS systems usually provide credit and debit card acceptance, reporting, and inventory management. However, you should choose the required feature that will ensure a boost in the productivity according to the type of business you are dealing with. Keep in mind that various features tend to vary from system to system, and often even between the level of offered by each company.

• Hardware compatibility

Take note of the required hardware that your POS is compatible with. Many POS Systems require you to make additional investments to buy new hardware. On the other hand, some operate on your existing equipment, others still only need an iPad or laptop/tablet. You need to check the hardware compatibility before you purchase a POS.

• Cost and budget efficiency

While choosing a POS, aim towards a moderate prices system that should firstly cater to all the business requirements. With the emergence of newer software as a service (SaaS (News - Alert)) model, reasonably priced options are now only a phone call away. Opt for a POS provider that offers competitive, straightforward pricing that is easy to understand. Moreover, users should avoid getting into mindless contracts which offer no transparency.

• Cloud-based compatibility

Cloud-based systems are advantageous as they provide lower upfront costs as a monthly payment is made instead of purchasing a software license. These systems also offer universal browser access, anytime and anywhere on the planet to back office management and reporting tools.

• Integrations

POS Integration essentially allows users to connect the POS systems with other business systems in use like accounting or email marketing software. It is highly advantageous as it will enable the programs to share sales figures and customer contact information. This allows overcoming the obstacle of manually downloading it from one program and uploading it to the other.

• Usability

When choosing a POS, make sure it is user-friendly and should provide an intuitive user experience so as to increase efficiency. The users should not have to spend hours to understand simple procedures. Instead, everything from inventory management to managing employees should feel simple and easy to use.

Takeaway:

With these points in consideration, we have outlined the basics of what to be on the lookout for when choosing a POS. It can surely prove to be a great addition to your business, and make your business more organised and productive. With a number of options available in the market choosing the right fit for your business shouldn't have to be a chore especially if you know the A, B, C’s.