POS systems vs. paper records?
Everybody knows that recording data by hand eats your time, now imagine recording business transactions by hand, you’ll probably think it’ll take you weeks or even months. And that doesn’t even include the time to copy all the data into a spreadsheet or database for further analysis! A POS system can keep track of all sales, returns, taxes, inventory, etc. so you’d be able to concentrate more on the other plans for your business’ success. While your POS system do all the crucial tasks, it saves time and increases productivity more than makes up for the expenditure.
I don’t know much about computers. Can I still use POS systems?
Yes. A vendor can help you in setting up the software to perform tasks as you want it to be. You’ll then be able to learn and navigate through a series of menus that’s easy to follow. When the vendor sets you up, they shall provide full training for you and your employees on how to use the system. And in case of problems, a POS customer service professional is just a phone call away!
What equipment do I need to get set up?
To begin, you’ll be needing a phone connection, internet connection and working electrical outlets. If you already have these, then your POS vendor will be able to set you up immediately! You don’t even need to own a computer since most vendors provide one as part of the entire system package.
Can POS help me prevent theft?
POS systems provide multiple tools to stop shrinkage before it eats into your profits. Various applications which allows you to track every item in your inventory so you can estimate exactly how much profit you should realize for every sale and pinpoint problems with your margins. If there are differences on the sales reports, it’ll raise a red flag so you be warned that there are problems that needs immediate attention.
Is POS good only for handling sales or to manage inventory?
Both! You can input all the data you want AND check out the inventory… and those aren’t just the tasks you can do, there are lots more you can do with POS. POS terminal and software also allows you to track sales performance, generate different reports, set up reminders for inventory that’s getting low, as well as plan for future sales campaigns. You can use the customer data you collect for targeting effective sales campaigns and stock your shelves with the items they purchase the most.
When do I need wireless?
Wireless is best used for business people on the go, so they don’t need to go back and fort to a POS terminal to process a transaction. Instead, they can easily process transactions using wireless technology.
Do I need a flat-screen monitor, or can I settle for a CTR monitor?
There are too many benefits to LCD displays over CRT that you shouldn’t ignore. First of all, they look great on any counter tables, they take up less space, less electricity and they last longer. CRT screens would be fine for low volume sales and if you’re not certain that POS will fit your business. But with the additional benefits when it comes to flat screens, there’s only a bit cost difference between the two.
What printer is best for my restaurant: a thermal printer or a dot matrix printer?
You’ll find that most businesses choose to use thermal printers over dot matrix printers since they have less moving parts so they last longer. For wireless, it’s the only option you’ve got. Even so, the dot-matric printers are a safer choice for hospitality kitchens because of heat from the ovens, grills, and fryers could warp thermal paper and ink.
What happens if my POS breaks down while conducting business?
This is one of the top reasons why it’s important to regularly back up your database. System failures can happen for a variety of reasons – power outages, system crashes, viruses, natural disasters, etc. By having a backup solution ready (preferably offsite so your important files is protected), you ensure the system is always up and running when you need it the most. More importantly, with backups, you can ensure that you can easily restore all customer information, as well as your sales figures and reports you’ve saved prior to the crash.
How about customer support?
Since customer service policies vary from vendor to vendor, there isn’t a simple answer for 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.
This is one of the reasons you should keep in contact with your POS vendor. Since customer support is likely one of your most pressing needs, look into the offerings of different vendors, take time evaluating each, and make a clear decision before buying.
What 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. And have their reports sent over to the corporate offices at the end of the day or each week.
The second option involves connecting all terminals to one server allowing real time uploading and downloading of reports and sales figures. The benefit of the second option is that it’s available remotely. But, since several POS terminals will be working on the same server, expect backlogs when sending information all at once.
With both solutions, you have to think about having a robust back up solution since the central server connects all locations – and if it fails, all locations may stop operating.
POS software licensing?
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.
Do I need 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 can now use it for your day-to-day operations and analysis for future plans. If your computer breaks or suffered 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 dollars 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 additional information or perhaps an online resource?
You may visit 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 Vice-President at POS-For-Restaurants with over 20 years of experience serving restaurants of all types throughout the U.S.
