Are you planning on upgrading your POS system soon?  It can be a very difficult task since technology can change so quickly. Mobile POS is a very popular trends while EMV is a serious concern. Educating yourself on all of the available options is the only way to ensure you make the best decision. Before you upgrade your Point of Sale system in 2017, consider the following:

 

How has your business changed?

Very few things stay the same and I would guess your business is different today compared to when your POS system was installed. These changes can have a huge impact on the type of POS system you decide to purchase. Consider how your customer base has changed. Are they older or younger? How have your product offerings changed? Do you require more or less space for conducting transactions? Are you providing more digitally based loyalty and discount options? Now consider how you anticipate your business changing over the next five years.

Both of these discussions will help you get the right POS for today and also future-proof yourself to the changes you are expecting.

 

Going Mobile?

Mobile POS is the hot topic in the point of sale world. Every company and industry is trying to integrate mobile solutions into their business plans. Being able to mobilize your employees with POS systems will provide new opportunities to meet customers’ needs and drive sales.

Using the right hardware will determine how successful you will be. In most cases, the options are either a tablet or smartphone sized device. Consider how much screen real estate is needed to properly conduct transactions. Does your employee need to be able to scan barcodes or print receipts? Does the device provide long enough battery life to prevent disruption? Is there an option that allows the tablet to be docked and used in a stationary setting when mobile isn’t ideal? 

Another concern with mobile point of sale is ensuring the wireless network can withstand the additional usage and keep data secure. Implementing a mobile solution is a serious undertaking which will require working with a specialist to make sure it is done correctly.

 

What about EMV?

Are you familiar with EMV? If your company accepts credit cards then you should get familiar really fast! Most companies have already upgraded their hardware so they can accept the new credit cards with chips on them. These new readers are critical to ensuring that your business does not hold the burden for liability when credit card fraud occurs. As you consider you next POS system, make sure that EMV is part of the solution. Many mobile solutions have not addressed EMV yet and that could be a concern for you. Discuss how EMV shifts liability and what options you have for traditional and mobile hardware.

 

Deciding to purchase new POS hardware is a costly process but it can pay off if done correctly. Take time to understand your business, think about how mobile POS would work for you and pay attention to credit card liability. If you can successfully address these 3 issues then you are well on your way towards upgrading your POS system.