Here are the answers to the most common questions in POS Systems

Why should I use POS systems for recording business data?

Everyone knows that recording data by hand takes a lot of time, now imagine recording business transactions by hand, you’ll probably think it’ll take you weeks or even months. And it still doesn’t include the time to make copies of the information into a spreadsheet or database for further analysis! If you want to avoid this, try using a POS system that will take care of all sales, returns, taxes, inventory, etc. so you’d be able to concentrate more on other important plans for your business. While your POS system do the tiring and crucial task of recording business data, it saves time and increases productivity more than the expenses you make.

I don’t know much about computers. Will I still be able to use a POS system?

Yes. You can have your vendor help you to set up the software to perform tasks as you want it to be. You’ll then be able to navigate through a series of menus that’s easy to follow. When your POS vendor sets you up, they will provide proper training for you and your employees on how to operate a POS system. And if you have a problem, a POS customer service professional is just a phone call away!

What are the required equipments for setting up?

For starters, 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 in a cinch! Most vendors will provide you with computers as part of their packages so you don’t have to tire yourself looking for the best computer to install your POS software.

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 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 discrepancies, it will raise immediate red flags so you can take care of the problem before it gets worse.

Can POS handle sales or manage inventory?

Both! You can input all the information you want AND check out the inventory… the best part of it is that’s only the beginning, there are lots more you can do with POS. POS terminal and software also allows you to track sales performance, allows you to generate reports, set up reminders for inventory that’s getting low, and plan future sales campaigns. You can use the customer data you collect to target effective sales campaigns and fill your shelves with the items they purchase the most.

When will I need to use 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 transactions. Instead, they can easily process transactions using wireless technology.

Do I need a flat-screen monitor, or can I settle for a CTR monitor?

You can get more benefits using LCD monitors over to CTR monitors, and of course it also depends on the work environment. They will last much longer, they don’t require as much electricity, and they take up less space. Plus, they are far more attractive. CRT screens would be fine for low volume sales and if you’re not sure that POS fits your business. But with the additional benefits when it comes to flat screens, there will be little cost difference between the two.

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

You’ll find that most businesses prefer to use thermal printers since they have less moving parts so it’s less likely to break down. And if you’re going wireless, it’s the only option you have. Even so, the dot-matric printers are a safer choice in hospitality kitchens because of the heat from the ovens, grills, and fryers could warp thermal paper and ink.

What happens if my POS suddenly breaks down during business?

This is one of the reasons why back ups are so important. System failures can happen any time – power outages, system crashes, viruses, natural disasters, etc. By implementing a backup solution (preferably offsite so your critical data is protected), you are assured of being able to restore lost or damaged files, and be able to run the business back in no time. What’s more important about backing up, you ensure you can retrieve all customer information, sales figures, and custom reports you have 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, 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?

For business owners having several POS systems in many locations have two options. For the first option, you can have all locations operate independently with their 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 a central server allowing reports and sales figures to be uploaded and downloaded in real time. The benefit of the second option is that it’s available remotely. However, having several terminals working on the same server, backlogs are possible if all locations try and send information all at once.

With both solutions, it’s imperative to have a robust back up solution since the central server connects all locations – if it fails, every location could be inoperable.

Does my POS software needs license?

Each terminal hosted on your network will need individual license. Vendors can offer volume discounts depending on the number of licenses you need.

Do I need to purchase a service contract?

It maybe part of the expense but surely worth it. Once your POS system is set up, you’ll be able to use for day-to-day business operations and analysis for future plans. If the computer breaks down or got hit by a disaster, you probably don’t want to use it for too long.

Depending on the vendor, a maintenance contract can cost a few hundred dollars a year and provide you with peace of mind so you can concentrate on running and growing your business.

Need more information or an online resource?

You may visit POS-For-Restaurants.com for access to 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 restaurants of all types all over the U.S.