Wanted: The Perfect POS System
Ask any successful retailer and they will tell you how important it is to find the right POS system for your business. But where do you start? How do you find that perfect POS system for your business? Easy! Just follow these 4 steps and get that important to-do checked off your list!
#1: Establish your needs and wants
Before you begin your search, think about what you need (and what you would want) the new system to do. What are the possible transaction types, customer functions, and back office functions that you do on a daily basis? Create a list with all these activity types so that you can easily check them off as you investigate each POS solution. Make sure to prioritize these functions in order of importance.
#2: Start gathering information
- Start off broad by consulting with peer groups and industry experts
- Consult fellow retailers on what POS systems they recommend
- Review trade magazines and online publications for articles related to popular POS systems
- Ask retail consultants (like us!) for their opinion on the POS system brands they trust
- Call retail associations like the Retail Council of Canada for their input on trusted brands
#3: Request a demo
Once you have a list of brands you are interested in, visit the company websites or call them directly for more information. Ask for any information packages and request a demo of the program from a qualified sales representative.
Prepare a list of standard questions to ask each sales representative and take your list of program requirements with you. Ask the sales representative to show you how the software would handle some of the special functions that are unique to your store.
#4: Narrow your list and follow up
Narrow your list to your top 2 or 3 vendors and then call their existing users. Ask them if they would be willing to discuss their experience with the product with you. If they are willing to share their story, ask them how the technical support structure works and whether they were happy with the installation and training provided.
If you can’t get anyone to speak with you directly, be sure to look for company and product reviews on Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Once you’ve completed these 4 steps, you should be ready to make an informed decision about your new POS system!
If you would like to learn more, contact us today and one of our consultants will be happy to help you.
Kirsten Hynds is a certified Winning@Retail™ consultant at CRS. Kirsten spent 10 years on the sales floor, and as a retail buyer and merchandiser, and has become an expert POS sales consultant and trainer over during her 10 years with CRS.
