5 reasons you should switch to Cloud POS
Cloud based point of sale (POS) systems are increasingly popular with small businesses, particularly in the retail and hospitality industries. Whether you’re totally new to the idea or have been considering it for months, switching from traditional sales technology to highly intuitive POS, software is one of the smartest moves a small business can make. Here are 5 reasons why you should pull the trigger:
- Business on the move
Unlike traditional POS systems cloud based POS systems can be accessed directly through the Internet on smart phones, tablets, laptops, etc. This allows you to manage many aspects of your business like sales, labor, and inventory management without actually being at a location. Owners/Managers have access to the various reports in real time rather than having to wait till the end of the day or ask for reports from the staff present at the outlets.
- Low cost and flexibility
There are numerous options and providers, and finding an option that best suits your business model will most likely be an affordable solution. In addition, most system providers do not charge a cancellation fee or lock you into annual contracts. So if you decide to upscale, downscale, or switch providers, it can be done at any time, without sacrificing a significant upfront investment.
- Advanced integrations
The technology used for Cloud based systems allows you to integrate a number of business and marketing functions into your POS system. For example, payments can be processed from anywhere within a business premises (not just at the front counter), and receipts can be sent directly to a customer’s phone. Some systems allow for check-splitting at restaurant tables and complimentary meals. Most systems now integrate with external accounting and digital loyalty programs, which are not possible on traditional POS platforms.
- Minimize Risks
The risk of data loss through corruption and virus attacks is reduced with Cloud based solutions because everything is stored online. In addition, the cost of having to reinstall system drivers on traditional hardwired POS systems, and the loss of revenue in the downtime, can also be avoided.Cloud based POS systems maintain highly secure connections to the cloud with multiple levels of encryption and backups, ensuring that if something catastrophic were to happen your data is secure and easily retrievable. Tablet based POS systems are even more secure, because sensitive information e.g. credit card data is never actually stored on the device, insuring no data leaks in case of theft.
- Future proof your Business
Cloud technology has advanced rapidly in recent years and offers small businesses a reliable, affordable, and flexible solution to their POS operations. All signs indicate the future of point of sale will reside in the Cloud. In comparison to conventional, locally-installed solutions, it is far more agile and dynamic. All of these advantages add up to an attractive business proposition. Lower costs, higher productivity, and risk mitigation are all significant contributors to profit, making the decision to switch a logical next step.
