Are you looking to upgrade your point of sale equipment? Have you noticed or heard about other businesses using mobile POS systems? Intrigued?
Then read on and find out all you need to know about this revolutionary tech.
We’ll start with the basics — what a mobile and tablet point of sale system is and how it works- before exploring the benefits it can bring to your business. Here’s everything you need to know about mobile POS.
1. What is a mobile POS system?
Traditional point-of-sale systems involve fixed cash registers and card readers for taking payments, providing receipts, etc. A mobile system replaces this technology by using mobile devices, usually tablets, that function as cash registers and more. This means you can take customer payments on the go with just a few clicks.
Here’s a summary of the key features of Vend POS, a popular retail mobile POS system, as an example:
- IPad and web-based on Mac or PC, and cloud-based syncing of all three
- Works offline
- Can customise receipts, notes and discounts
- Manages layaways and on-account sales
- Tracks all cash movements
- Handles returns, refunds and store credit
- Staff user accounts that can track sales
The most sophisticated systems like Vend and Revel POS also integrate sales and inventory analytics into the system so that businesses always have a handle on inventory numbers and sales figures.
Other useful features such as workforce reporting and customer data storage mean that these systems are incredibly useful for gaining new, comprehensive insights into your business.
2. How does a mobile POS system work?
Mobile POS systems work through Mac or PC as well as integrated mobile apps for smartphones and tablets. You need nothing more than a tablet: all data is stored in the cloud. You can access this information anytime and anywhere.
These systems are designed for integrating multiple outlets so that your business can operate cohesively as one unit.
3. Is it easy to set up?
Yes, they are much easier to set up than a traditional, fixed system. You will need to download an app and check the compatibility of accessories like card readers. If you purchase your system from a reputable provider like IPadPOS, full technical support is provided so setup is an absolute breeze, and fast too.
These systems are designed to be intuitive to use so all your staff will be up and running with it very quickly. Plus, you can benefit from ongoing 24/7 technical support.
4. Is it cost effective?
One of the things businesses find off-putting in terms of fixed point-of-sale systems is the high upfront cost of the equipment. So little equipment is needed for a mobile system so it is nearly always more cost-effective. Most providers of mobile POS will expect you to pay a small monthly subscription after any initial setup costs.
5. Is it a flexible system?
Good mobile POS systems are easy to scale up. The process of including users to the system is quick and inexpensive. You can add new staff members, registers, sales channels or locations to the system in just a couple of clicks.
Vend POS is compatible with other retail tools like Xero, Square and Shopify which means you can carry on enjoying the benefits these software bring, too.
6. What types of businesses are using a tablet POS system?
Using a mobile POS system can benefit virtually any retail and hospitality business. Serving customers wherever they are rather than asking them to queue vastly improves the customer experience, regardless of the type of product you are selling.
7. How can mobile POS systems improve customer experience?
Serving your customers using mobile POS lessens wait times, enables cashless payments, and avoids paper receipts. We know that customers are put off by lengthy or slow-moving queues and slow service; mobile POS can put an end to these. Take a payment or look up an item’s location or stock levels in an instant for a memorable customer experience.
Using integrated systems like Revel and Vend allow you to capture and then leverage your customer data. You can also easily access information such as a customer’s purchase history, loyalty points balance and more. Having this data can help your staff better serve the needs of the person in front of them with a truly personalised experience.
Customer-facing displays are also used for transparency and to build trust.
8. Can a mobile POS system boost sales?
Definitely. Reduced wait times allow you to process the needs of more customers. Your quick response to intended purchases and customer queries means less time for a customer to change their mind and walk out. Less missed business means more sales overall.
Plus, there is no better boost for your business than satisfied customers sharing their positive experiences in your store or food outlet.
9. Is the mobile POS system safe and secure?
Certainly. In fact, it is much safer than a traditional POS system.
On mobile POS, no data is stored and all transactions are encrypted. One of the major priorities of manufacturers of mobile POS is that businesses can keep their customers safe. As a result, much of their efforts are put into monitoring and improving security so that any threats are quickly disabled.
To find out more about what Vend or Revel POS systems could do for your business, get in touch with our friendly team today.
Ross Smith
CEO at iPad POS Middle East
