How to compare epos system prices uk that will suit your business and deliver
true benefit? Here's a guide to help.
Choose
an epos partner not a provider
The first priority is to find a
partner you are comfortable with. It is not a one off transaction as you are
choosing an IT partner for your business. A good partnership should advice on
how different technologies can further improve your business.
So find out who will be your accounts
manager there who is accessible, somebody who has your interests on a
fundamental level, not simply someone who wants to flog another system. Secondly
who is your technical support person? Thirdly and most importantly who will be
your technology adviser, the person who help you push your business forward,
offer you new thoughts through technology and this should not generally end in
another sale!
You can't be an expert in all
things. If technology isn't your area then get a good partner. A solid partnership
with a technology company that can understand your business needs will be
exceptionally valuable asset.
Be
clear about what you want
The way to choose the right epos system
first time is to make a list of your requirements. It has to be done before you
talk with any vendors. As you talk with potential partners you may add new ideas
to the list and re-prioritize. You know your business better than anyone and
your epos software should complement
it - not really reinvent it.
A few of them may include reduce
stock holding, accelerate customer transactions, manage returns efficiently, create
and manage a website to sell 10% of my stock, track normal sale value daily for
each sales assistant.
Software
Choice
Once you feel comfortable with an
organization and have your list to hand, take a look at their software. Ask the
provider to arrange a demo around the needs on your list. This has a couple of advantages;
it structures the demonstration around your business needs, it stops the sales executive
going off on a good natured but confusing waffle, thirdly it helps you understand
the software better.
It is important to feel comfortable
with the software. Just with an overview you should able to do the basic
functions, especially the till.
Since epos takes care of your
shop processes, one size does not fit all. You need to find software that meets
95% of your issues. I suggest looking at systems that are used by retailers in
your area. This means majority of functions should fit and hardly any enhancements
will be required.
Finally, check for all ongoing
costs and how charges are made for upgrades whenever required at a later date.
Hardware
Selection
Your hardware decision boils down
to a consideration of cost versus features and durability.
Actually, the main decision is to
be whether you standard PC or spend a little to buy a retail PC. Here are a
couple of focuses on each:
Standard Office PC
- Lower
cost
- Faster
and more powerful
- Retail PC
- Robust design to withstand the bangs and knocks of retail life. Shops depend on their till being operational more than an office PC. Retail PC's in general designed with reliable components.
- Covers and lockable cases stop staff or customers touching switches and ports improving reliability as failures occur from fiddling.
- Specific ports on the back to connect the till peripherals like receipt printer and customer display.
- Smaller designed to be installed as a till with cash drawer.
Cash
or Lease
Final choice might be to lease or
pay upfront. Many businesses rent PC hardware these days over paying of the
equipment. Leases allow you to buy the hardware at a reasonable amount at the
end of lease period. You will be using the system for years so why not pay for
it at the end of the lease period rather than upfront. If the interest payments
put you off, we frequently hear that the tax advantages of leasing counteract the
interest.
