Time Mastery Now

Why can’t I just stick with 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 want to avoid this, try using a POS system that will take care of all your sales, taxes,inventory, etc. so you may concentrate on other aspects of the business. While your POS system do all the crucial tasks, it saves time and increases productivity more than makes up for the expenditure.

I’m not that good with it comes to computers. Will I still be able to use a POS system?

Sure! A vendor can help you set up the software to perform tasks as you want it to be. And then be able to navigate a POS system’s menu easily. When your POS vendor sets you up, they will provide full training with you and your staff for how to use it. And in case of problems, a POS customer service professional is just a phone call away!

What equipments are required to set up?

POS customers need a phone connection, internet connection, and working electrical outlets. If you have these components, vendors can set you up with POS in a cinch! 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?

A reliable POS system has multiple tools that can help you accomplish this. There are various applications which can allow you to accurately track inventory items so you can estimate exactly how much profit you should expect at every sale, as well as be able to pinpoint problems within the business. If there are discrepancies, it will raise immediate red flags so you can be informed and be able to take actions.

Can POS handle sales or manage inventory?

Both can be handled by your POS with no problems! You can enter your daily transactions AND check inventory… but that’s just the beginning! POS terminal and software also allows you to track sales performance, generate different reports, set up reminders for inventory that’s running low, as well as plan for future sales campaigns. You can use the customer data you collect to target effective sales campaigns and fill your shelves with their mostly purchased items.

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 go straight for a flat-screen LCD monitor, or start off with CRT monitors?

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 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.

Wich printer is better: 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 don’t easily break down. It’s also the only option if you are going to work wirelessly. However, dot matrix printers are safer choices in hospitality kitchens because of heat from the ovens, grills, and fryers could damage the paper and ink of thermal printers.

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 (preferably offsite so your critical files is protected), you are assured of being able to restore lost or damaged files, and run the business smoothly. What’s more important about backing up, you can ensure that you can easily retrieve all customer information, sales figures, and custom reports you have saved prior to the crash.

What kind of customer support should I expect?

Well, customer support vary from vendor to vendor, so there isn’t a simple answer to this question. Others may have a 24/7 telephone support, while others only offers support during business hours and can respond to your needs on the next 24 hours.

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 purchasing.

What if I need POS for multiple locations?

Generally, if you a few more of POS systems in various locations of your businesses, you can choose from two options. The first option, you can have all locations operate independently using 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 main server allowing real time uploading and downloading of reports and sales figures. 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 sending information all at once.

With both solutions, it’s imperative to have a robust back up solution since all locations are connected to one server – and if it fails, all locations may stop operating.

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.

Do I need to purchase a service contract?

It maybe part of the expense but surely worth it. Once your POS systems are set up, you will use it for your day-to-day operations and future business analysis. 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 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 restaurants of all types all over the U.S.