For retail businesses, the point of sale system is the heart of every transaction, so choosing the right POS solution to suit your needs is an important decision. Whether you’re selecting a point of sale system for the first time, or upgrading your old POS to a new system, there are many factors to consider. One of these factors is whether to purchase a traditional POS or mobile POS (mPOS).
A “traditional” point of sale system is typically comprised of a stationary touch screen computer, customer display, cash drawer, and credit card reader. It may also include scanners and printers. A mobile POS system is typically a tablet configuration used in both stationary and mobile applications and can be utilized in lieu of, or as an adjunct to, stationary point of sale systems.
Here are a few things to consider when deciding between traditional POS and mPOS hardware:
Size, Scale, and Space
Do you own a small boutique or operate a large multi-location store? If your store is small and you have limited space requiring a small footprint, a tablet POS may be right for you. Aside from being smaller than traditional POS systems, mPOS systems may have the look and feel that is more attractive and desirable for a boutique environment. Because mPOS systems can be used in both a stationary or mobile capacity, they are a flexible solution.
If you operate a larger retail business with multiple cash wrap counters, a bundled traditional point of sale system may be the better choice. Bundled solutions come with all of the necessary peripherals typically used at a checkout lane such as the stationary touchscreen computer, cash drawer, scanner, receipt printer, etc.
A large store, too, can benefit from mPOS, using an integrated approach where checkout stations utilize traditional POS, while floor associates access product information through mobile devices. This approach makes it easy for employees to offer real-time product information anywhere in the store and even assist with line busting during high-traffic periods such as the holiday season.
Functionality, Ruggedization, and Compatibility
For the most part, mPOS can perform all of the same functions as a traditional POS. Be aware, however, that traditional POS solutions are designed specifically for high usage. Not all tablets are retail-hardened and can be susceptible to damage if not properly ruggedized for retail-use. Some mPOS solutions come ruggedized with specialized enclosures and stands designed for commercial use.
If you need to connect your mPOS to a receipt printer, cash drawer, or scanner, you’ll need to ensure that the peripherals you select are compatible with your mobile device. Many manufacturers now offer bundled solutions to meet these requirements.
To decide which POS solution will meet your needs, be sure to test them out through demonstrations and seek referrals from businesses similar to your own. A value added reseller can provide you all of the information and resources you need to ultimately make the best decision for your business.