Choosing the right ePOS system for your business can be a daunting process, with the literal hundreds to thousands of options available out there. Narrowing down the best soft and hardware for your place of business doesn’t have to be time-consuming if you follow these simple tips. We’ll discuss what to look for in the company, the ePOS system, and how it will apply to your business. Keep reading to learn more about how to pick the right ePOS system for your retail store.
What Does Your Old POS System Lack?
Perhaps the best place to start when searching for an ePOS system is to determine what your old POS system is lacking. Are you still using a traditional cash register? A vintage one? Maybe your POS system wasn’t fast or secure enough, or perhaps it didn’t have all the great tools for marketing and inventory management built-in.
Identifying the weaknesses of your old POS system will give you a great starting point for your search. Make a checklist of things you want in your ePOS system and those you definitely don’t want to give you some idea of what you’re looking for.
What Type of Store Are You Running?
Retail stores come in many shapes and sizes; everything from clothing outlets to department stores and more. What type of retail store you’re running (as well as the size of it) can help determine which ePOS system is right for you.
A larger retail store will likely require a more sophisticated inventory system than a smaller one, or perhaps even the ability to accept a wider variety of payment methods. Take a close look at the amount of business you’re doing, as well as the size of your inventory before deciding on your ePOS system. You wouldn’t want to spend extra money on more sophisticated software if it’s unnecessary.
With better inventory counts, your store’s products will be tracked and accounted for, which is a vital part of the retail business. In the event of recalls, returns and exchanges, or even your daily counts, a misplaced item or incorrect previous day’s count can be time-consuming or even disastrous.
Price and Reviews
This brings us to one of the most important factors in your decision: price. Pricing will vary among different brands, with some systems operating on a subscription-type price structure that includes cloud backups and storage. The price you pay will depend largely on the type of software and the number of terminals you’ll need for your store.
Always be sure to shop around and do price checks on any ePOS system you’re considering. There’s always a chance you’ll be able to find the same software at a better price. Don’t forget to check the company’s reviews as well, to ensure you’re purchasing from a business with a reputation for quality and customer service.
The web is a wealth of information. Do your research on the product you’re considering. This means much more than simply price checking the item. Look up reviews, how-to videos, and customer testimonials to get a true idea of how the system operates and what kinds of issues you may run into.
An important aspect of any digitalized system is the ability to contact a customer support line should you run into problems. Be sure the system you choose is backed by a company that values its customers and its products and provides support via helpdesk or third-party tech support.
Customer Feedback
The biggest impact your new POS system will have will be on your customers. Changes can be daunting for customers, especially if they’ve been coming to your store for many years and are accustomed to the old system. It’s important to keep them updated and even gather feedback on their preferences.
Gather feedback on your current POS system. Ask what features your customers appreciated, which ones they disliked, and what they’d like to see in your new software. Then, compare this feedback with your own checklist, and you’ll be on your way to the best ePOS system for your retail store.
When you find an ePOS system that works for both you and the customer, you’re all but guaranteeing its successful integration with your store. You’ll keep customers happy by making them feel included, while still keeping your own preferences and needs in mind.
Be ready to answer any questions your customers may have when the new system is implemented. They’ll likely have concerns or comments on the new system and its operation or even security concerns. This is another reason why it’s so important to properly research your software before making a purchase.
If you can’t answer customer questions on your store’s POS system, they’ll likely feel uncomfortable about using it or even lose some faith in your brand. Know your stuff!
The Take-Away
Choosing an ePOS system is easier when you know what you’re looking for. Keeping your preferences as well as those of your customers in mind can ensure that everyone is happy with the change, and the software will work for your store.
Don’t forget to do your research, but not just on the price. Compare reviews, watch how-to videos, and take an in-depth look at the company and the software you’re purchasing. A good company will stand behind their products and provide support to their customers via a tech support line or a third-party organization.