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Concerns About Restaurant POS Systems? Here Are The Answers!

POS systems vs. paper records?

Everyone knows that recording data by hand takes a lot of time, now imagine recording every business transaction 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! A POS system can keep track of all sales, returns, taxes, inventory, etc. so you can concentrate more on other important plans for your business. While POS takes an investment to get started, the time savings and productivity increase more than the expenses you make.

I’m not very good with computers. Can I still use a POS system?

Yes. Have your POS vendor help you to set up the software to perform the tasks that you want. 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 if you have a problem, a POS customer service professional is just a phone call away!

What are the proper equipments I should use to get set up?

POS customers need 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! You don't even need to own a computer since most vendors provide it as part of their POS package.

Does a POS system really help prevent theft?

Shrinkage is one of the threats that you need to eliminate!. There are various applications which can allow 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. And if ever there are differences on the sales reports, you'll know immediately so you can address the problem head-on.

Can I rely on POS to handle my sales or to manage my inventory?

Your POS can handle both task! You can enter all the data you want AND check out the inventory... and those aren't just the only things you can do, there are so much more you can do with a POS. POS terminal and software also allows you to track sales performance, allows you to generate reports, set up reminders for inventory that’s about to empty, as well as plan for future sales campaigns. You can use the customer data you collect for targeting effective sales campaigns and stock your shelves with the items they purchase the most.

Is wireless required?

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.

Should I buy a flat-screen LCD monitor, or a less expensive CRT monitor?

LCD monitors provides more advantages for a restaurant compared to CTR monitors. 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 are fine for low volume sales and if you're not confident that POS is the right one for your business. But with the additional benefits when it comes to flat screens, there will be little cost difference between the two.

What’s better: a thermal printer or a dot matrix printer?

For most businesses, a thermal printer works best. There are less moving parts so it’s less likely to 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 the heat from the ovens, grills, and fryers could damage the paper and ink of thermal printers.

What happens if my POS breaks down while conducting business?

This is one of the reasons why you should regualrly back up your database. System failures can happen for a variety of reasons – 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 run the business smoothly. What's more important about backing up your data, you can ensure that you can retrieve all customer information, sales figures, and custom reports you have saved prior to the crash.

How about customer support?

Well, customer support vary from vendor to vendor, so there isn't a simple answer to 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.

What POS do I need if I have multiple locations?

For large-sized businesses that needs several POS systems in various locations, you generally have two options. The first option, you can have all locations operate independently using their own POS terminals and software. You can then send reports over to the corporate offices at the end of the day or week.

The second option involves connecting all terminals to a main server allowing real time uploading and downloading of reports and sales figures. The benefit of the second option is that it’s available remotely. But, since several POS terminals will be working on the same server, expect backlogs when all send their information at once.

With both solutions, you have to think about having a robust back up solution since all locations uses the same server – if it fails, every location could be inoperable.

Do I need to license my POS software?

Each terminal hosted on your network needs individual license. There are POS vendors who'll offer you discounts depending on the number of terminals that needs licenses.

Should I purchase a service contract?

It’s certainly worth the expense if you want your business up and running all day. Once your POS system is set up, you will use it for your day-to-day operations and analysis of your business. If the machine breaks down or you experience a disaster, you probably don’t want to keep it any longer.

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

Need additional information or perhaps an online resource?

Go to POS-For-Restaurants.com if you want to receive multiple quotes for your Restaurant Point of Sale System.

The author of this article is the VP of Customer Relations at POS-For-Restaurants with over 20 years of experience serving businesses all over the U.S.

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