How to set up a cloud POS system for your small business
Getting a POS system for small business is one of the smartest moves you can take for your business. If you are thinking about getting one, but have no idea about how to do it, this article will help you.
Step 1: Select the best POS system suitable to your needs
Of course, the whole process of setting up the POS system starts with researching about the available options, and choosing the best one as per your needs. Decision-making is important in choosing a cloud POS system, and the peripherals such as an invoice printer, a cash register, or a barcode scanner for retail stores. However, we’ll come to that later. Let’s see what factors you need to take into consideration while selecting a cloud based POS system.
- Features offered
Firstly, take a look into the features offered by the software. You can get a list of features from the website easily. For better consultation, you can also get in touch with the organization selling the software and clear all your doubts. You can also inquire about whether it’s customizable, and possible to include personalized features.
- Cost
Cost is also important, however, you need to take a comparative approach here. Don’t just go blindly for the cheaper one, rather, decide which one provides the best value for money.
- Compatibility
Compatibility can be a big issue while selecting a POS software. Your software and hardware systems should go hand in hand. Generally, in the case of cloud POS, you don’t require installing a specific hardware system to run the software. Rather, it can be installed in any electronic device. So, apart from a few peripheral devices like a barcode scanner for pos or a credit card reader, you don’t need to purchase any machinery. However, if you are using somewhat outdated systems, then your hardware might not be compatible with the POS system. Unless you like a POS system very much and are ready to get new hardware compatible for the system, always make sure that your existing system is compatible.
- Customer Service
Finally, customer service is extremely important while choosing a point of sale system. Using a new software for the first time, there can arise many unforeseen issues while operating them. So, make sure that the team provides top-notch services when required, and takes care of all issues fast.
Step 2: Signing up, installation, and data import
Finally, you’ve selected your POS system after a lot of research. Now it’s time to get it up and running.
Cloud based POS systems can be installed in multiple devices. So, it’s best that you take advantage of that and get it installed into at least two devices. You can set up one at the store, and keep one at home for easy and anytime access. Normally, you can install it yourself with help from the developer team. On rare instances, you might need the team to come online and get it done for you.
After you’ve successfully installed the program, you should next focus on importing all data from other programs that you have been using till now. This includes inventory information, accounting details, customer database, etc.
Step 3: Hardware add-ons
Your POS system is now almost ready to use. However, you’ll still need a few peripheral devices before you can enjoy your brand-new POS system and manage your daily operations with it. Here’s a list:
- Barcode Scanner
A barcode scanner is a very important device for a retail shop because without it, you cannot record the sales into your system in real time. Before purchasing a barcode scanner, make sure that it supports barcode system inventory and is compatible with your POS system. The best android barcode scanners available in the market are pretty high-end and work well with POS systems.
- Cash Register
In order to accept cash payments from your customers, you will need a cash register. Both electronic and manual cash registers are available in the market. It is a good idea to go with the electronic ones as they make your job easier and are also compatible with POS systems.
- Credit Card Reader
Same way, in order to accept cashless payments from customers, you’ll need a credit card reader as well.
- Invoice Printer
Finally, to print out receipts for transactions, you’ll need an invoice printer that can be paired with the POS system.
As you can see, setting up an electronic POS system is not really that complicated. If you follow these steps, you’ll be able to get your system up and running very easily.
