If your business is not already using an ePOS system to process your payments, the idea of switching over may have you or your staff on edge. Maybe you have heard about complicated systems that are difficult to learn, or you might be nervous about getting everyone at your company on board and up to speed. You don’t want to spend big bucks on a new system of payment just to have it be nearly impossible to figure out.
If this explains some of your trepidation about getting started with a new ePOS system, there is good news for you. Modern point of sale hardware is easy to use, and it often works straight out of the box.
With the right system, you can avoid hours of setup, and training others will be a snap. Your customers will love how quickly and easily you process payments, and an integrated system means you have access to a plethora of tools that will help you free up time and money so you can grow your business (or maybe just spend some time relaxing).
The key to having a successful transition is finding the right system, to begin with. You want to make sure that whatever system you go with offers excellent customer care and assistance with simple setup, and confirm it can be integrated with other business management software that helps keep everything together.
Your new system should be easy and intuitive to learn and use, and it should not only support your business’s growth but also grow with your business. Keep reading for a more in-depth look into how to choose the right payment processing system for your business without adding stress to your daily operations.
Choose a System With Easy Setup
Some ePOS systems only work with special hardware, so you have to buy the entire package including a cash drawer, server, receipt printers, and scanners. This does simplify things in that you do not have to worry about trying to connect hardware that may or may not be compatible, and most of the time you can start operating new hardware right out of the box.
If your budget does not allow for the larger expense of purchasing all new hardware and you were hoping to use some of what you already have, there are definitely ePOS systems that work with that.
Look for a system that allows you to use your existing hardware, and offers comprehensive customer support and expert assistance with setup. Many systems offer a free trial, which is an excellent opportunity to try the features offered before you make any commitments.
Find a System That Offers Excellent Customer Care
At the absolute minimum, the system you choose should come with a setup consultation and guidance from an expert. Some offer in-person setup and training to get you up and running as quickly and efficiently as possible.
In addition to comprehensive setup assistance, look for systems that come with 24-hour full-service support, so you can make sure your business is able to take payments worry-free during all the hours you are open.
When you are having technical difficulties, you need to be able to deal with them ASAP, and only dealing with complications during business hours does not work when you yourself are running a business.
Use Your ePOS System to the Fullest
An ePOS system is so much more than just a payment processor. You can now manage most of your business through an ePOS system, and making sure yours can be fully integrated into all of your business management software will make your life easier in the long run.
Inventory
Advanced technology allows you to use your ePOS system to manage your inventory in real-time so you always know the status of your stock. As items are purchased, they come off the inventory, and you can even set your system up to automate orders when your inventory drops below a set point.
Accounting
Businesses spend at least one to three full days every month on bookkeeping duties, but an ePOS system drastically cuts back on the time spent working on your finances. When you integrate with accounting software like Xero, your ePOS will sync daily or even hourly, and all entries are automatic.
Your ledgers are kept in the cloud so you have access from wherever you are, and because they are created automatically they are less prone to human error.
Customer Relationship Management
Your customers prefer personalised, targeted marketing from your business, and making it happen is easier than ever when you get an ePOS system that integrates with your customer relationship management software.
You can use it to keep better track of what your customers like, offer them special promotions and discounts based on their loyalty or their purchase history, and use your system to automate campaigns that reach each customer exactly the way they prefer.
Employee Management
Integrating with your employee management software will help your business make the most efficient use of your wage expenses and employee time. Use it to help you determine staffing needs for any given time, discover areas where your employees could use some feedback, and communicate about the day’s tasks.
Final Thoughts
Switching over to an ePOS system can be as simple as plugging in your equipment and starting it up. The keys to making your transition quick and painless while getting the most out of what your system has to offer, are ensuring proper support with setup and all potential problems thereafter, finding a system that is flexible in design, and confirming your new system integrates with your business management software.
When you keep these things in mind as you choose your system, you open the door to new opportunities for your business and a more streamlined system of operations. Take advantage of the free trials most systems offer in order to be sure you’re choosing the right system for your business.
