8. Tips for POS system buyers

Buy Software First

Don’t purchase scanners, printers, or other POS equipment before you’ve picked out a software program. The software that is best for your business might not be compatible with these devices, or might not even rely on them at all. Buying software first ensures you won’t be stuck with unusable hardware.

Use Industry Specific Programs

Vendors with experience in your industry will be able to understand your needs and tailor a system specifically for your business. For example, vendors that specialize in online businesses will have access to different credit card processing software for ecommerce merchant accounts.

Buy the Whole System from the Same Vendor

The biggest problems businesses encounter when implementing a POS systems usually stem from incompatibility- either hardware and software won’t work together, the merchant account won’t allow POS transactions, or the system’s individual components use too much power that the system fluctuates or collapses. All of these problems can be avoided by using the same vendor for all components. A good vendor will be like an architect, engineer, and interior designer rolled into one- the end product will work together and with your business.

Get a Demo or Free Trial

Most vendors let you try out software at your business to see how it works. At minimum, you should be able to use software, hardware, and try out reporting functions in a demo transaction. Test processing a sale, review inventory features, and generate a sales report. The best way to know if a system will work for you is to test it.

Far too many businesses buy the cheapest system without shopping around, only to find later that it is too complicated or confusing for employees to use. Systems are usually customized to your business, so you won’t be able to simply return a system that you don’t like. Shop smart, and make the right choice the first time.