POS Systems: Looking For Answers? Here They Are!

Considering the cost are POS systems really better than paper records?

It will definitely take a lot of time to record every business transaction by hand. And it still doesn’t include the time to make copies of the information into a spreadsheet or database for further analysis! If you don’t want to regret loosing valuable time on these tasks, try using a POS system that will take care of all sales, returns, taxes, inventory, etc. so you are able to concentrate more on the other plans for your business’ success. While POS takes an investment to get started, the time savings and productivity increase more than makes up for the expenditure.

I don’t know much about computers. Can I still use POS systems?

Sure! A vendor can help you set the software to perform the tasks that you want. You’ll then be able to navigate through a series of menus that’s easy to follow. When the vendor sets your POS system, they will provide full training for you and your employees on how to use the system. And if there’s any problem with the system, a POS customer service professional is just a phone call away!

What equipments are required to set up?

For starters, you’ll be needing a phone connection, internet access and working electrical outlets. If you already have these, then your POS vendor will be able to set you up in a cinch! You don’t even need to own a computer since most vendors provide one as part of the entire system package.

Does a POS system really help prevent theft?

Shrinkage is a threat you need to eliminate for good!. There are various applications which allows you to accurately track items in your inventory for you to have an exact estimation of how much profit you should realize for every sale and pinpoint problems with your margins. If there are mistakes on the sales reports, you’ll know immediately so you can address the problem head-on.

Can POS handle sales or manage inventory?

Both can be handled by your POS with no problems! You can enter all the information you want AND check out the inventory… and those aren’t just the tasks you can do, there are so much more you can do with a POS. POS terminal and software also allows tracking of sales performance, generate different reports, set up reminders for inventory that’s running low, and plan future sales campaigns. You can use the customer data you collect to target effective sales campaigns and stock your shelves with the items they purchase the most.

Is wireless required?

If you’re a business person on the go, especially doing tradeshows or processing orders in a restaurant, it’s best if you use wireless technology. With this, you can easily process any transaction without having to go back to a POS terminal.

Should I buy a flat-screen LCD monitor, or a less expensive CRT monitor?

LCD monitors provides more benefits for a restaurant compared to CTR monitors. LCD monitors are far more attractive for customers, easy to place on top of any counter table, doesn’t need much electricity and lasts longer. CRT screens are fine for low volume sales and if you are not really sure that POS is right for your business. But with the additional benefits afforded to flat screens, there will be little cost difference between the two.

Wich printer is better: a thermal printer or a dot matrix printer?

You’ll find that most businesses prefer to use thermal printers since they have less moving parts so they last longer. For wireless, it’s the only option you have. However, dot matrix printers are safer choices in hospitality kitchens because of the heat from the ovens, grills, and fryers could warp thermal paper and ink.

What happens if my POS breaks down during business?

This is why back ups are so important for any type of business. System failures can happen any time – power outages, system crashes, viruses, natural disasters, etc. By implementing a backup solution (more preferable is an offsite backup so your critical data is protected), you are assured of being able to restore lost or damaged files, and run the business smoothly. More importantly, with backups, you ensure you can easily retrieve all customer information, as well as your sales figures and reports that you’ve saved prior to the crash.

What kind of customer support can I expect?

Since customer service policies vary from vendor to vendor, there isn’t a simple answer to this question. While one might have round-the-clock telephone support and local repair technicians, others may only have phone support during normal business hours and can only schedule repair requests a full day in advance.

That’s why it is very important to keep in contact with your POS vendor in case of problems, especially if you baught separate POS equipments from different vendors, you can look into the offerings of different vendors and take your time before making a purchasing decision.

Does POS work if I have multiple locations?

Generally, if you a few more of POS systems in various locations of your businesses, you can choose from two options. First, you can have each location operate independently with its own POS terminals and software. You can then send reports over to the corporate offices at the end of the day or week.

The second option involves connecting all terminals to one server allowing reports and sales figures to be uploaded and downloaded in real time. What you’ll benefit from option number two is that it’s available remotely. But, since several POS terminals will be working on the same server, expect backlogs when all send their information at once.

With both solutions, you have to think about having a robust back up solution since all locations are connected to one server – if it fails, every location could be inoperable.

Do I need to license my POS software?

You typically need an individual license for each terminal hosted on your network. There are POS vendors who’ll offer you discounts depending on the number of terminals that needs licenses.

Should I purchase a service contract?

It’s certainly worth the expense if you want to stay up and running at all times. Once you get set up with a POS system, you’ll be able to use for day-to-day business operations and analysis of your business. If the machine breaks down or you experience a disaster, you probably don’t want to keep it any longer.

There are maintenance contracts offered by vendors, depends on the vendor, which can cost a couple hundred bucks a year who can provide you services each time a POS terminal of yours breaks, so you can go ahead and concentrate in making your profits grow.

Need more information or an online resource?

Go to POS-For-Restaurants.com if you want to receive multiple quotes for your Restaurant POS Systems.

The author of this article is the Customer Relations VP at POS-For-Restaurants with over 20 years of experience serving businesses throughout the U.S.