The 7 Types of POS Systems
A key component of running a successful business involves using the right software.
This is particularly true when it comes to point of sale systems. However, many owners of small businesses aren’t quite sure how to get started.
Let’s look at the different types of POS systems and how to decide which one is best for you.
1. Kiosk POS Systems
These are ideal for businesses that want to streamline customer checkouts. This type of system allows customers to quickly scan items, pay with a credit or debit card, and take their purchases with them.
Kiosk POS systems are often found in retail stores, movie theaters, museums, and other locations where people are looking to get in and out quickly.
Keep in mind that they are not suitable for every type of business. Those that have a slower-paced customer experience may not be able to fully benefit from them.
2. Mobile POS Systems
Mobile POS systems are popular with businesses that are often on the go. Mobile POS systems allow you to take payments anywhere, including festivals, farmers’ markets, and other outdoor events.
They’re also great for food trucks and catering companies that need to accept payments quickly but don’t have access to a traditional checkout counter.
Mobile POS systems come with plenty of flexibility. For example, a clothing brand could use a mobile POS system to establish popup shops around the city they operate within.
3. Cloud-Based POS Systems
Cloud-based POS systems allow you to view sales reports, inventory levels, and customer information from any computer or mobile device with an internet connection. This type of system also eliminates the need to install costly software on individual computers.
Keep cloud technology in mind if you find that your POS management is costing more time and resources than you feel it should.
4. On-Premises POS Systems
These are ideal for businesses that need to manage more complex operations. On-premises POS systems offer advanced features such as inventory control, customer tracking, and loyalty programs.
These systems often come with a dedicated server and require professional installation.
5. Tablet POS Systems
Tablet POS systems are lightweight and easy to use, making them a great choice for busy servers who don’t have time to run back and forth between the customer and the checkout counter.
These also go a long way when it comes to maximizing the customer experience. To clarify, they allow your customers to place an order or interact with your business whenever they are ready instead of waiting for someone to attend to them.
However, keep in mind that these systems often require support from your staff. Customers may have questions about information on the tablet that your employees will need to clarify.
6. Unified Commerce POS Systems
When you need to manage multiple stores, a unified commerce POS system is the way to go.
This type of system allows you to view sales data from any store in real time and lets you manage inventory levels across all locations. This can serve as a great way to gain insight into your company’s performance. From here, you can emphasize strategies that work and eliminate those that do not.
7. Open-Source POS systems
These are systems that you can customize exactly how you like. However, you will need to hire a software engineer or have a background in this field to do so.
While it does take more work to get the results you want, you can create something truly unique that satisfies all your needs.
How Do I Know Which Is Best for Me?
Before you decide on a POS system, it’s important to consider your business needs.
Your choice should be based on the type of products and services you offer, how often customers check out, and if you need more advanced features such as inventory control or customer tracking.
Once you have an idea of what kind of system will work best for your business, you can start looking at different providers to find the one that’s the best fit.
What Should I Look for in a Provider?
When shopping for a POS system, look for a provider that offers reliable hardware and software, fast installation times, 24/7 customer support, and competitive pricing.
Additionally, make sure that the company you choose is willing to work with you to create a customized solution that meets your specific needs. Of course, it’s crucial that you research their past reviews. This is the only way you can gain insight into the experience you will get from working with them.
Pay close attention to how they respond to negative feedback. If they appear to get defensive or otherwise deflect blame, it’s in your best interest to continue your search elsewhere.
As you might guess, it’s essential that you only work with someone you feel comfortable with. If they don’t seem determined to help you reach your goals, it’s best to continue your search elsewhere.
Understanding the Different Types of POS Systems Is Easier Than It Seems
Sometimes, knowing what you need to about the available types of POS systems can seem overwhelming.
The above guidelines will help ensure that you avoid problems you may have otherwise dealt with. Looking for more information about what we can do? Reach out to us today to see how we can help.
