When you’re just starting out, every penny you spend needs to be carefully watched and must bring a good return on investment. EPoS systems can be one of the pricier elements that you need to invest in so ensuring that you get the right system first time around is imperative. The solution you choose needs to support your business as it is now, but also be primed for growth as soon as your strategy begins. It can be a daunting process especially for the less tech-savvy among us so here are a few pieces of information you need to remember when choosing your EPoS till solution.
Depending on the industry that your business is in, you will require different functionality and equipment but basic equipment includes:
- Computer
- Keyboard
- Cash drawer
- Receipt printer
- Back-office computer
EPoS software can be run on nearly any PC but investing in a specially designed EPoS computer is often a good idea as it will run quicker and will also most likely be covered by your EPoS provider should anything go wrong.
Other equipment you might like to consider as a start-up includes:
- Barcode scanner
- Weighing scales
- Credit/debit card machine
- Barcode printer
- Hand-held devices
All of these different pieces of equipment or ‘peripherals’ as they are known can support the checkout process as much or as little as you need them to.
In addition to equipment, there is also a range of functionality that your EPoS system can provide. It is vital that you choose a software option that fits your industry. EPoS systems were originally invented to support the fast-food industry but as you can imagine, the requirements of McDonalds are far different from the needs of a hotel. Choosing the software package that supports your industry will save both time and money in the long term and will help you to deliver the highest possible level of service to your customers.
Below are some examples of the functionality that different industries might find beneficial:
Retail
- Promotions such as ‘buy one get one free’ being automatically processed at the till point
- Stock tracking across multiple warehouses or stores
- Avoiding a customer ordering a product that is ‘out of stock’
Hotel
- Being able to transfer bills from the bar to the customer’s hotel room
- Recognising repeat customers
Pub
- Tracking orders in the kitchen as they are processed at the till
- Managing inventory and stock levels
As you can see, the software package you require will differ greatly depending on your industry. In addition to those mentioned above, you can also find EPoS solutions to support businesses in the beauty, bars and clubs and fashion industries. You can buy either just the software or a complete EPoS system to support your business.
Many EPoS providers offer payment packages that allow businesses to spread the cost of an EPoS system, much like buying a car on finance. This not only means that the cost is more manageable but there is the opportunity to upgrade to a new and better system as your company makes more money and wants to invest back. Most EPoS systems are customisable meaning that you can start basic and add more on as you find you need more. Speak to an EPoS vendor to discuss the best options for your start up business.
A good EPoS system really can transform your business by making the checkout procedure for your customers smoother and more efficient. We’ve all had an experience where we have had to wait a long time in a queue only to be told that the system can find the product or that the price displayed is different to that on file. By eliminating these problems you’ll be able to deliver a higher level of customer experience and you’ll get more repeat customers and referrals.
If in doubt, call a variety of EPoS providers and ask for testimonials and case studies. Good vendors will be able to show you why they stand out from the rest and will support you and your business throughout the whole process. You should also look online for reviews as in this day and age, any problems or bad experiences can be recorded and shared. But in return, if you do receive a high level of service and are happy with the product, remember to leave a positive recommendation for the company you choose.
Bio: This article has been written by Laura Jennings on behalf of EPOSNOW, a market-leading EPoS provider with over 10 years’ experience in the industry.
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