Choosing the right EPOS system
Top tips for buying an EPOS system
Price isn’t everything
Cheaper systems often have recurring costs or will break more quickly, racking up extra costing here and there or causing you to buy twice, adding up to a sizable fee over time. Quality has its own value – you wouldn’t scrimp on buying a new car, so why do it for something integral to your business? POS systems pay for themselves after a very short amount of time, yet people are very unwilling to part with the money that provides these highly effective and efficient systems.
Make sure to be aware of any hidden costs
Linking to the point above, many companies will get around selling an initially cheap system by charging hefty monthly software fees. Make sure to keep track of all fees and charges before finalising the deal.
It’s worth paying a little extra for a reputable company
This comes with benefits, namely a more solid product base, better customer support and longstanding system security. These do not come with a one man company working out of his bedroom. These options may be cheap, but they often provide terrible support, or outright disappear, leaving you stuck with a system that is either not working correctly, or completely broken. You’re choosing a business partner, not just a supplier – take your time to pick a company you feel happy working with, that you know will be there for the long haul.
Have features in mind before enquiring
Have a list of features that you feel you need before searching for a system; this will make your search much more streamlined and make it easier for potential suppliers to find the right system for you. This extends to peripherals too - if you feel like you need an MSR reader, or a Customer display, why not factor it in to the original quote instead of tacking on items for months afterward?
Take time choosing a system
An EPOS terminal is a business-altering investment. It’s not worth rushing into a purchase only to find out it’s not what you needed three months down the line. Make sure the system supplies the right mixture of simplicity, productivity and profitability – choose a system that complements your business, not one the business must be built around.
Pick a system within your needs
Make sure you choose software that suits your business requirements realistically. Get a grip on the software first. If a takeaway restaurant chooses high-end retail software, there will be confusion and wasted money invested in a system that is drastically over-powered for the task at hand. Similarly, don’t underestimate your needs, especially as they may develop over time – it never hurts to plan ahead.
Be aware of the value of good software
Rather than thinking only of the cost of hardware, be sure to consider the value of the software you will be getting. Software is the most vital, integral part of an EPOS system and will often quickly pay for itself – don’t make the mistake of shirking from the cost. It’s worth spending money to get software that’s right for you, rather than regretting it later. The hardware won’t perform much on its own; you wouldn’t buy a car without wheels!
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