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Things to be done before selecting a POS
system
Since each business is
unique, every business will require
software that will meet specific needs.
There are a number of points of sale
firms that make claims that their POS
system is applicable for all the
business types such as retail and
restaurants. As a trader, you will
understand that you cannot cater to all
people. Why settle for generalised
software when there is specific software
available. It is essential to know in
advance the business issues that need to
be addressed with the POS system. After
this, a POS system needs to be chosen
that will cater to specific needs. This
will lead to satisfaction with the POS
system in the future.
Request for a demo – It
is always better to ask the salesperson
to give a demo. This will help traders
to check the working of the software and
also see its potential fit into a
particular business. Traders need to be
cautious when a salesperson launches
into the product without taking time to
identify the needs of a particular
business. It is best to utilize the
services of a salesperson as one
resource to understand the product and
its application into a business. A good
salesperson answers all the questions
that help a trader to find the most
suitable solution.
Ask a salesperson for
quotes – After a trader develops a good
understanding of his/her needs, it is
time to begin asking for product quotes.
Moreover, getting product quotes from
firms you are keen on will add to the
decision-making process.
Certain points of sale
companies include everything in the
quotations while some other may leave
out certain items. Moreover, cost that
could arise in the future such as
upgrade costs, support and maintenance
costs need to be enquired about well in
advance.
The sales representative
should be requested to give a proposal
on the maintenance, upgrades, support,
installation, training and hardware.
The following questions
need to be asked to a sales person –
-
Will the software support be
provided for a full term?
Most of the firms provide
support at no extra charge for one year
of the contract. The trader will have to
shell out for the support provided for
the remaining period of the contract.
Hence, while evaluating firms, it is
necessary to clarify the support
services.
-
Is the support for hardware included
for a full term?
Certain firms segregate
the support for software and hardware.
Hardware support is equally important.
Hence, it is necessary to ensure that
the support for hardware is included as
well as covered for a full term.
-
What are the internal costs that
should be considered?
The cost incurred for the
operation and maintenance of a POS
operating system should be included if a
POS system is being purchased.
-
How often the updates are provided?
To avail the best
software, it is advisable to choose a
firm that continually improves and
upgrades its products.
With these points in
mind, a trader can choose the best
quality POS system which is suitable for
his/her business. |
