Point of sale (POS) or checkout is the place where a transaction occurs in exchange for goods or services. The point of sale often refers to the physical electronic cash register or dedicated POS hardware used for checkout, but the POS is simply the location where the sale is conducted, money changes hands and a receipt is given, which can also occur on a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or mobile POS device when the right hardware and POS software is combined with the mobile device.

For small and medium-sized retailers, the POS will be customized by retail industry as different industries have different needs. For example, a grocery or candy store will need a scale at the point of sale, while bars and restaurants will need to customize the item sold when a customer has a special meal or drink request. The modern point of sale will also include advanced functionalities to cater to different verticals, such as inventory, CRM, financials, warehousing, and so on, all built into the POS software. Prior to the modern POS, all of these functions were done independently and required the manual re-keying of information, which resulted in a lot of errors.

Software prior to the 1990s

McDonald's POS device by Brobeck

Early Electronic Cash Registers (ECR) were controlled with proprietary software and were very limited in function and communications capability. In August 1973 IBM announced the IBM 3650 and 3660 Store Systems that were, in essence, a mainframe computer used as a store controller that could control 128 IBM 3653/3663 point of sale registers. This system was the first commercial use of client-server technology, peer-to-peer communications, local area network (LAN) simultaneous backup, and remote initialization. By mid-1974, it was installed in Pathmark Stores in New Jersey and Dillard's Department Stores.

One of the first microprocessor-controlled cash register systems was built by William Brobeck and Associates in 1974, for McDonald's Restaurants.[1] It used the Intel 8008, a very early microprocessor. Each station in the restaurant had its own device which displayed the entire order for a customer—for example: [2] Vanilla Shake, [1] Large Fries, [3] BigMac—using numeric keys and a button for every menu item. By pressing the [Grill] button, a second or third order could be worked on while the first transaction was in progress. When the customer was ready to pay, the [Total] button would calculate the bill, including sales tax for almost any jurisdiction in the United States. This made it accurate for McDonald's and very convenient for the servers and provided the restaurant owner with a check on the amount that should be in the cash drawers. Up to eight devices were connected to one of two interconnected computers so that printed reports, prices, and taxes could be handled from any desired device by putting it into Manager Mode. In addition to the error-correcting memory, accuracy was enhanced by having three copies of all important data with many numbers stored only as multiples of 3. Should one computer fail, the other could handle the entire store.

ViewTouch POS widget-driven touch screen GUI

In 1986, Gene Mosher[2] introduced the first graphical point of sale software under theViewTouch[3] trademark on the 16-bit Atari 520ST color computer.[citation needed] It featured a color touchscreen widget-driven interface that allowed configuration of widgets representing menu items without low level programming.[4] The ViewTouch point of sale software was first demonstrated in public at Fall Comdex, 1986,[5] in Las Vegas Nevada to large crowds visiting the Atari Computer booth. This was the first commercially available POS system with a widget-driven color graphic touch screen interface and was installed in several restaurants in the USA and Canada.

[edit]Modern software (post 1990s)

In 1992 Martin Goodwin and Bob Henry created the first point of sale software that could run on the Microsoft Windows platform named IT Retail.[6] Since then a wide range of POS applications have been developed on platforms such as Windows and Unix. The availability of local processing power, local data storage, networking, and graphical user interface made it possible to develop flexible and highly functional POS systems. Cost of such systems has also declined, as all the components can now be purchased off-the-shelf.

The key requirements that must be met by modern POS systems include: high and consistent operating speed, reliability, ease of use, remote supportability, low cost, and rich functionality. Retailers can reasonably expect to acquire such systems (including hardware) for about $4000 US (2009) per checkout lane.

[edit]Hardware interface standardization (post 1990s)

Vendors and retailers are working to standardize development of computerized POS systems and simplify interconnecting POS devices. Two such initiatives are OPOS and JavaPOS, both of which conform to the UnifiedPOS standard led by The National Retail Foundation.

OPOS (OLE for POS) was the first commonly adopted standard and was created by Microsoft, NCR Corporation, Epson and Fujitsu-ICL. OPOS is a COM-based interface compatible with all COM-enabled programming languages for Microsoft Windows. OPOS was first released in 1996. JavaPOS was developed by Sun Microsystems, IBM, and NCR Corporation in 1997 and first released in 1999. JavaPOS is for Java what OPOS is for Windows, and thus largely platform independent.

There are several communication protocols POS systems use to control peripherals:

* Epson Esc/POS

* UTC Standard

* UTC Enhanced

* AEDEX

* ICD 2002

* Ultimate

* CD 5220

* DSP-800

* ADM 787/788

* HP

There are also nearly as many proprietary protocols as there are companies making POS peripherals. EMAX, used by EMAX International, was a combination of AEDEX and IBM dumb terminal.

Most POS peripherals, such as displays and printers, support several of these command protocols in order to work with many different brands of POS terminals and computers.

[edit]Cloud-based POS (post 2000s)

The advent of cloud computing gave birth to the possibility of POS systems to be deployed as Software as a service, which can be accessed directly from the Internet, using any internet browser. Using the previous advances in the communication protocols for POS's control of hardware, cloud-based POS systems are independent from platform and operating system limitations. Cloud-based POS systems are also created to be compatible with a wide range of POS hardware.

Cloud-based POS systems are different from traditional POS largely because user data, including sales and inventory, are not stored locally, but in a remote server. The POS system is also not run locally, so there is no installation required.[7]

The advantages of a cloud-based POS are instant centralization of data, ability to access data from anywhere there is internet connection, and lower costs.[7][8] Cloud-based POS also helped expand POS systems to mobile devices.

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[edit]Mac-based systems

In recent years, a number of companies have offered Apple-centric POS systems for hospitality and retail including Checkout POS for Mac, Prosperity POS, Lavu POS, ShopKeep POS and LightSpeed. Some of these function similar to traditional POS systems using client-server models, while newer systems can run in the cloud on iOS based devices.

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[edit]Industry

[edit]Retail industry

Main article: Retail

The retailing industry is one of the predominant users of POS terminals.

A retail point of sale system typically includes a computer, monitor, cash drawer, receipt printer, customer display and a barcode scanner, and the majority of retail POS systems also include a debit/credit card reader. It can also include a weight scale, integrated credit card processing system, a signature capture device and a customer pin pad device. More and more POS monitors use touch-screen technology for ease of use and a computer is built in to the monitor chassis for what is referred to as an all-in-one unit. All-in-one POS units liberate counter space for the retailer. The POS system software can typically handle myriad customer based functions such as sales, returns, exchanges, layaways, gift cards, gift registries, customer loyalty programs, BOGOF (buy one get one free), quantity discounts and much more. POS software can also allow for functions such as pre-planned promotional sales, manufacturer coupon validation, foreign currency handling and multiple payment types.

The POS unit handles the sales to the consumer but it is only one part of the entire POS system used in a retail business. "Back-office" computers typically handle other functions of the POS system such as inventory control, purchasing, receiving and transferring of products to and from other locations. Other typical functions of a POS system are to store sales information for reporting purposes, sales trends and cost/price/profit analysis. Customer information may be stored for receivables management, marketing purposes and specific buying analysis. Many retail POS systems include an accounting interface that "feeds" sales and cost of goods information to independent accounting applications.

Recently new applications have been introduced, enabling POS transactions to be conducted using mobile phones and tablets. New entrants include Square, Intuit's GoPayments, and NCR Inc.'s Silver platform, ezyMART POS, ShopKeep POS, and GoPago.[9]

[edit]Hospitality industry

Main article: Hospitality industry

Hospitality point of sales systems are computerized systems incorporating registers, computers and peripheral equipment, usually on a computer network. Like other point of sale systems, these systems keep track of sales, labor and payroll, and can generate records used in accounting and book keeping. They may be accessed remotely by restaurant corporate offices, troubleshooters and other authorized parties.

Point of sales systems have revolutionized the restaurant industry, particularly in the fast food sector. In the most recent technologies, registers are computers, sometimes with touch screens. The registers connect to a server, often referred to as a "store controller" or a "central control unit." Printers and monitors are also found on the network. Additionally, remote servers can connect to store networks and monitor sales and other store data.

Newer, more sophisticated, systems are getting away from the central database "file server" type system and going to what is called a "cluster database". This eliminates any crashing or system downtime that can be associated with the back office file server. This technology allows 100% of the information to not only be stored, but also pulled from the local terminal. Thus eliminating the need to rely on a separate server for the system to operate.

The efficiency of such systems has decreased service times and increased efficiency of orders.

Another innovation in technology for the restaurant industry is Wireless POS. Many restaurants with high volume use wireless handheld POS to collect orders which are sent to a server. The server sends required information to the kitchen in real time.

[edit]Hair and beauty industry

Point of sale systems in the hair and beauty industry have become very popular with increased use of computers. In order to run a salon efficiently it is essential to keep all appointments, client, employee roster and the checkout in a system where you can create performance reports for. The nature of salons and spas vary depending on the setup of the business and products offered in addition to the business. This is why POS comes along with most salon software.

[edit]Restaurant business

Restaurant POS refers to point of sale (POS) software that runs on computers, usually touch screen displays. Restaurant POS systems assist businesses to track transactions in real time.

Typical restaurant POS software is able to create and print guest checks, print orders to kitchens and bars for preparation, processcredit cards and other payment cards, and run reports. In addition, some systems implement wireless pagers and electronic signature capture devices.

In the fast food industry, displays may be at the front counter, or configured for drive through or walk through cashiering and order taking. Front counter registers take and serve orders at the same terminal, while drive through registers allow orders to be taken at one or more drive through windows, to be cashiered and served at another. In addition to registers, drive through and kitchen displays are used to view orders. Once orders appear they may be deleted or recalled by the touch interface or by bump bars. Drive through systems are often enhanced by the use of drive through wireless (or headset) intercoms.

POS systems are often designed for a variety of clients, and can be programmed by the end users to suit their needs. Some large clients write their own specifications for vendors to implement. In some cases, POS systems are sold and supported by third party distributors, while in other cases they are sold and supported directly by the vendor.

Wireless systems consist of drive though microphones and speakers (often one speaker will serve both purposes), which are wired to a "base station" or "center module." This will, in turn broadcast to headsets. Headsets may be an all-in-one headset or one connected to a belt pack.

[edit]Hotel business

POS software allows for transfer of meal charges from dining room to guest room with a button or two. It may also need to be integrated with property management software.

[edit]Hardware stores and lumber yards

POS software for this industry is very specialized compared to other industries. POS software must be able to handle special orders, purchase orders, repair orders, service and rental programs as well as typical point of sale functions.

Ruggedized hardware is required for point-of-sale systems used in outdoor environments. Wireless devices, battery powered devices, all-in-one units, and Internet-ready machines are typical in this industry.

-------------------------------------------------

[edit]Checkout system

Point of sale systems, or checkout systems, often include:[citation needed]

* General computer hardware

* General computer software

* Checkout hardware

* Checkout software

* Miscellaneous store hardware

Because of the expense involved with a POS system, the eBay guide recommends that if annual revenue exceeds the threshold of $700,000, investment in a POS system will likely be advantageous.[10]

POS systems are manufactured and serviced by such firms as Fujitsu, IBM, MICROS Systems, Panasonic, Radiant Systems, Squirrel Systems and Microinvest (see the point of sale companies category for complete list).

Point of sales systems in restaurant environments operate on DOS, Windows or Unix environments. They can use a variety of physical layer protocols, though Ethernet is currently the preferred system.

Point of sale software generally includes integration with inventory management software and checkout equipment, analytics,bookkeeping, and inventory tagging abilities.[11] Checkout hardware generally includes a credit card reader, a receipt printer, a cash drawer, a barcode scanner, and a PIN pad with integrated card swipe.[12]

Consumer Point of Sale (POS) Applications

SQL Server 2008 R2

Other Versions

Consumer point-of-sale (POS) applications include those applications that consumers encounter directly or indirectly at the point of sale. Examples include terminals used by cashiers, ATM machines, and in-store kiosks. These applications collect data at remote sites and transmit it back to a central location, such as headquarters or a data center. It is common in these applications for data to be collected primarily at the point of sale and subsequently uploaded to headquarters without conflict, because a single remote user (typically a customer or sales clerk) is updating a given piece of data.

The following diagram illustrates a typical scenario with data flowing in two directions between a central site and remote locations:

Adventure Works Cycles Example

Adventure Works Cycles is a fictional manufacturing company used to demonstrate database concepts and scenarios. For more information, see AdventureWorks2008R2 Sample Databases.

Many of the retail outlets that sell Adventure Works Cycles products use point-of-sale systems that receive data from and transmit data to a central site. Typically, read-only product pricing and warehouse inventory data is sent to the retail outlet whenever updates to this data occur. Customer purchasing information is transmitted from each retail outlet to the central site.

Common Requirements for This Scenario

POS applications typically have the following characteristics, which an appropriate replication solution must address:

* Most data is entered and updated at the remote sites.

* Remote users must be able to make updates independently, without requiring a connection to the central site.

* Data updated at a remote site is not updated at any other sites; therefore conflicts typically do not occur.

* Some data should only be updated at the central site; for example, data in product description tables.

* Users synchronize data at scheduled times (such as the end of the business day).

* The application must control how long a remote site can remain unsynchronized.

* Some tables require filtering so that each store receives different data for one or more tables. For example, each store receives information only for products it stocks.

* The application might require custom business logic to be executed when data is synchronized.

* The application might require that data be synchronized over the Internet rather than through a dedicated connection.

The following diagram illustrates the filtering associated with this scenario:

The Type of Replication to Use for This Scenario

Microsoft SQL Server uses a publishing industry metaphor to describe the components of the replication system. The components include the Publisher, Subscribers, publications and articles, and subscriptions. In the diagram above, the central site is the Publisher. The data at the central site is the publication, with each table of data being an article (articles can also be other database objects, such as stored procedures). Each point of sale terminal is a Subscriber to the publication, receiving schema and data as a subscription. For more information on the components of the system, see Replication Publishing Model Overview.

SQL Server offers different types of replication for different application requirements: snapshot replication, transactional replication, and merge replication. This scenario is best implemented with merge replication, which is well suited to handle the requirements outlined in the previous section. For more information on merge replication, see Merge Replication Overviewand How Merge Replication Works.

Merge Replication Options Relevant to This Scenario

Merge replication offers several options to address the requirements described earlier in this topic. The following list presents each requirement and the merge replication options that address it.

* Most data is entered and updated at the remote sites.

Merge replication provides this ability without specifying any separate options.

* Remote users must be able to make updates independently, without requiring a connection to the central site.

Merge replication provides this ability without specifying any separate options.

* Data updated at a remote site is not updated at any other sites; therefore conflicts typically do not occur.

In POS applications, conflicts are often avoided because a single user updates a given piece of data. Because data doesn't overlap between users, it is possible to optimize performance with the non-overlapping partitions option. For more information, see the "Setting 'partition options'" section of the topic Parameterized Row Filters.

Merge replication provides conflict detection and resolution for cases in which data conflicts are expected. For more information, see Detecting and Resolving Merge Replication Conflicts.

* Some data should only be updated at the central site; for example, data in product pricing tables.

Merge replication provides download-only articles for those tables that should be updated only at the Publisher. For more information, see Optimizing Merge Replication Performance with Download-Only Articles.

* Users should be able to synchronize data on demand, rather than only at scheduled times.

Replication offers two subscription types: push subscriptions and pull subscriptions. Pull subscriptions are better suited to on demand synchronization. For more information on subscription types and scheduling synchronization, seeSubscribing to Publications and Synchronizing Data.

* The application must control how long a remote site can remain unsynchronized.

Merge replication allows you to set a subscription expiration period to ensure that all Subscribers have synchronized within a certain amount of time. For more information, see Subscription Expiration and Deactivation.

* Most tables require filtering so that each user receives different data for one or more tables.

Merge replication allows you to filter columns and rows. Row filters can be static or parameterized. A static filter is applied only when a publication is created; it results in one data set. A parameterized filter is applied every time a Subscriber synchronizes; it results in a different data set for each Subscriber. POS applications often use parameterized filters, but could also use static filters. For more information, see Filtering Published Data for Merge Replication.

* The application might require custom business logic to be executed when data is synchronized.

Merge replication allows you to specify code to be executed during synchronization. This code can respond to a wide range of events and has access to the data that is being synchronized. For more information, see Executing Business Logic During Merge Synchronization.

* The application might require that data be synchronized over the Internet rather than through a dedicated connection.

When using SQL Server Compact 3.5 SP2, data is synchronized over an HTTP or HTTPS connection. For other editions of SQL Server you can use Web synchronization, which requires HTTPS. For more information, see Web Synchronization for Merge Replication.

Steps for Implementing This Scenario

To implement this scenario, you must first create a publication and subscriptions, and then initialize each subscription. Click the links below for more information about each step:

* Configuring Distribution

* Publishing Data and Database Objects

* Subscribing to Publications

* Initializing a Subscription

After the subscription is initialized and data is flowing between the Publisher and Subscribers, you might need to consult the following topics for information on common administration and monitoring tasks:

* Monitoring (Replication)

* Strategies for Backing Up and Restoring Merge Replication

* Troubleshooting (Replication)

* Removing Replication

Point of Sale SystemsBy Kent Pinkerton

A point of sale system is a type of computer or specialized terminal that is used to instantly record a

transaction. This system uses computers and combines it with the necessary software, cash registers, barcode

readers, optical scanners, and magnetic strip readers.

Types of Point of Sale Systems

There are two main types of point of sale systems available. The first one is an online type of system that is

connected to a central computer for credit checking and inventory updating. The other type of point of sale

system is called a stand-alone machine. This type of machine will store information concerning sales, credit

card information, as well as keeping track of your inventory. At the end of the day this information must be

delivered or manually transmitted to the main central computer. These two types of systems work in a similar

manner, with the only difference being the way and how fast the information gets delivered to the main central

computer.

Uses for Point of Sale Systems

A point of sale system could significantly help a business owner in keeping a business run smoothly and

efficiently. The most important use of this system to a business owner is its ability to allow your business to

process credit card payments. Consumers today tend to prefer paying with a credit card rather than using cash.

Majority of the consumers do not even carry cash in their person most of the time. It has been proven that

businesses that do not accept credit cards for purchases will have at least 60% less sales than similar business

that accept credit cards.

Cost

The cost of point of sale systems will depend on how sophisticated of a system you wish to implement. There

are some systems available that cost over $1500, while some can cost as little as $65. The type of system you

will need to buy will depend on the needs of your business, and the amount of transaction you will need to

process at any given business day.

Point Of Sale Systems [http://www.e-PointofSaleSystems.com] provides detailed information on Point Of Sale

Systems, Restaurant Point Of Sale Systems, Affordable Point Of Sale Systems, Retail Point Of Sale Systems

and more. Point Of Sale Systems is affiliated with Point Of Sale Hardware [http://www.i-pointofsale.com].

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kent_Pinkerton

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/272654 http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kent_Pinkerton

Point Of Sale Systemshttp://posnation.com/articles/point-of-sale-systems-articles.php

In recent years more and more retailers are making the switch from traditional cash registers to  point of sale systems. The typical POS system incorporates several pieces of peripheral equipment into one area to enable the cashier to complete a variety of functions all at the time a customer comes up to cash out. The system often incorporates a computerized cash register with a mainframe computer, an optical scanner, a barcode reader and the magnetic strip reader used for credit and debit cards.

Point of sales systems are generally broken down into two main categories, the networked or online system and the stand alone system. With the networked system all of the POS locations within a store are linked to the stores mainframe and database.

This way whenever a sale is made the computer can bill out the credit or debit card immediately while at the same time updated the in store inventory making it much easier to run end of day reports and order replacement stock, this helps ensure that the store never runs low on a particular item.

With stand alone point of sale systems you can still run credit and debit cards; however the information is stored in the unit along with all sales until the end of the business day when it must be manually transferred to the company's mainframe for further processing. If there is a problem with the credit card it will not be found until the batch is transmitted to the bank, this is really not the preferred way to do business as you can lose a lot of time and money chasing down bad credit cards.

The main idea behind point of sales systems is to make life in the retail business flow much more smoothly. They do this not only by allowing you to keep better track of inventory by allowing you to see what is happening through your sales, but by taking care of your credit card sales. More and more consumers today are choosing to pay with a credit or debit card rather than risk carrying cash in their wallets or purses.

According to a recent survey any business that does not use a POS system may lose as much as 60% in sales compared to those who do.

While some smaller businesses may feel that they cannot afford point of sales systems, modern systems can either be purchased or leased at affordable rates. These rates are generally adjusted for the type of equipment and in many cases you will receive a discount for having more than one POS system for your business.

No matter what kind of retail business you have, it will benefit from using a POS system to handle your customer's credit and debit cards. If you are interested in looking at the latest point of sales systems that can be customized to meet your needs, you need to talk to the experts at POS Nation. They offer the latest in to quality POS equipment that can be custom tailored to suit your business needs.

Point of Sale Systems: How Can You Protect Valuable Information Stored in Them?   by Jordan Laurenthttp://goarticles.com/article/Point-of-Sale-Systems-How-Can-You-Protect-Valuable-Information-Stored-in-Them/4005422/

Point of sale systems already proves its effectiveness to a lot of business owners at present. Considering its numerous advantages, you will no longer be surprised if you see this system reaching its utmost popularity. You obtain an absolute assurance that using this system can increase the profitability of your business. With this system around, you can expect faster processing of transactions and your customers can also expect better services from you. You can also effectively keep track of all your business transactions and you can record these transactions in a more accurate manner. But because this system contains sensitive data and valuable information, it is important that you consider doing actions in keeping all this information protected. You should do something to prevent hackers from accessing those business data and information. Through this, you will have a guarantee that all information within your system are shown to only the authorized people in your business.

One way of ensuring that all data and information entered into point of sale systems are greatly secured is through backing them all up. Just like any other system, POS system also has the tendency to crash or be hacked so it is important that you take extreme caution in entering all business information into it. When it comes to this, backing all information up in your secure and private network can reduce any chances of losing all your data. With a back-up, you are guaranteed that all data in the POS system will be recovered whenever problems inevitably arise. You will then be assured of the protection of all data and you can expect them to be easily retrieved whenever the need arises.

Restricting access to the system is also one way of ensuring that your point of sale systems is greatly protected. You should only authorize a few people to go near the system and access the information that are entered into it. If you try to limit the people who access the system then there is a great chance that your system will be highly protected. So start to control the system by allowing only a few people to access it. Through this, the system will be greatly protected against further damage.

Point of Sale (POS) SoftwarePoint of sale (POS) software differs based upon the business type served. Retail, restuarants, salons, grocery stores and night clubs all benefit from POS software. Customizable, reliable, affordable and flexible POS software is preferred by small and large enterprises to improve efficiency and productivity. The return on investment is considerable, and inventory loss and theft are significantly reduced. Business owners must ensure they obtain compatible software for equipment to increase revenue through improved workplace productivity and efficiency.

What to Expect from Retail Point of Sale Software

Retail POS software is capable of tracking inventory, printing bar codes and providing an overall faster experience at the point of sale. Inventory can easily be stored in this system to help businesses plan for special events and future demand. Business owners can analyze sales, generate reports and improve overall business efficiency when systems are automated through retail POS.

Retail POS software may be integrated with hardware to improve workplace productivity. POS hardware such as touch screen computers, barcode readers, barcode scanners and handheld computers are controlled by POS software. Without POS software, transaction data would not be captured for use later. POS hardware, alone, will not improve the efficiency of retail businesses. Captured data helps improve productivity in retail environments.

For instance, some retail businesses may capture information from every sale ever made. If customers have returns, businesses can retrieve proof of sale by searching every transaction made via credit card. This eliminates the need to keep track of paper receipts. Consumers enjoy shopping with businesses that provide conveniences to improve their overall shopping experience through advanced software.

Retail sales people may capture data about their customers’ preferences, contact information and other personal information to make the shopping experience more enjoyable. Top sellers and non-sellers are identified easily with POS software. Buyers and managers immediately know what to buy and what to phase out from inventory. Retail POS significantly improves productivity and efficiency.

What to Expect from Grocery Store Point of Sale Software

Grocery stores such as Safeway improve ability to address the needs of hundreds to thousands of customers daily through the use of software. Software integrates with touch screen computers, scales, bar code readers, bar code scanners and other hardware to make the overall system more efficient and more profitable. The return on investment is significant when these systems can work together to provide information necessary to operate a business professionally.

For instance, grocery stores may use software to monitor inventory levels and demand. As the inventory levels drop, buyers or store managers may order more. Demand levels may be monitored throughout the year. Store managers or buyers can make predictions about which products increase in demand during a certain time of year.

Easter, for instance, may have an increase in demand for eggs or other chocolate candies. Grocery store managers can use the data captured at the point of sale for planning

purposes. Grocery stores have improved the shopping experience through automation and software integration.

A Typical Point of Sale Software Solution Includes:

Point of Sale Software and Credit Card Integration. Credit card integration is necessary to decrease problems during a sale. The best credit card integration software does not require any special equipment. The best POS software will be compatible with most hardware available on the market. Problems are reduced at the point of sale when billing information is captured from the credit card transaction.

Point of Sale Software and Customer Orders. Data captured by customer orders are necessary. Sale orders, work orders and purchase orders may be processed easily with POS software. The orders are tracked and identified through software to determine which orders have been completed and which orders require further attention.

Point of Sale Software and Employee Monitoring. POS software tracks employee performance. The software can track employee’s performance through sales, on-time arrival, follow-up and other metrics employers may integrate to evaluate employees. The best software features an unlimited number of users without an additional charge. Employers ensure best practices are followed when POS software is used to monitor behavior and progress.

Point of Sale Software can Improve Productivity and Efficiency

Small, medium and large enterprises benefit from the efficiency POS software provides. Consider POS software to improve business efficiency. Business owners will be amazed by the return on investment and increased revenue in a short period of time. Determine how POS software can provide a comprehensive business solution for improved productivity.

Get FREE Point of Sale (POS) Software Quotes for Comparison

As with any business purchase it is recommended that you get 3 to 5 quotes for comparison as pricing, features, and support can vary greatly. SupplierCompete is in a unique position to facilitate a FREE quoting process that will save you time and money. Complete the one simple form at the top of this page and we will match you to companies that best fit your needs. They will contact you directly to provide free quotations and provide the opportunity for you to ask them specific questions about your requirements.

http://www.suppliercompete.com/pos-system/pos-software

Make Point of Sale a Point of SuccessBy :   Jenn Loganthanhttp://www.fibre2fashion.com/industry-article/19/1869/make-point-of-sale-a-point-of-success1.asp

Selecting point of sale, or POS, equipment is a critical decision for any small business owner.

This is the gateway of financial interaction between your business and its customers. POS

equipment is the hardware and software that handles customer transactions and communicates

them with merchant account providers if needed. Without them it is impossible to process debit

and credit transactions. In today's marketplace where fewer people than ever carry cash, it is an

essential tool for any growing business. These systems include barcode scanners, pin pad entry

points, signature stylus, credit card readers or swipers, keyboards, computers, printers, touch

screen displays, fingerprint IDs, and cash registers. A software component that manages user

interface and hardware integration is another major factor in the equation.

Choosing specific point of sale components is not as simple as it sounds. A thorough evaluation

of your business structure is essential to developing a custom tailored POS system that can

carry your business forward. A wireless system is great for mobile vendors or restaurants, while

emphasis on customer display may make smoother transactions in a retail outlet. Like the

automobile industry, most POS equipment is sold through resellers rather than then

manufacturers. Expect to pay between $2000 and $8000 for a high quality custom system fully

with a service agreement. While used systems may be less expensive, you may have to install

and service the system yourself. Software costs could easily overrun any savings benefits of a

used system. Price should not be a major concern in your decision making process. A

substandard setup means decreased efficiency, which could cost your business thousands per

day in lost revenue. A malfunction at peak hours could run cashier lines out the door, some

customers never to return.

POS equipment is divided into two major categories: Hospitality and Retail. Retail systems are

less complex as most transactions are done instantaneously. These systems may integrate

peripherals such as weigh scales and pole displays to keep the customer informed as items are

scanned. Other features could include security features, such as fingerprint IDs for cashiers.

Smooth interface and speedy communication with merchant services is the goal of these

systems. Management and organization is the emphasis in the Hospitality sector. In a restaurant

setting these systems need to be able to relay orders to a kitchen or bar, manage open accounts

as new items are ordered, and track server table responsibilities. Spend some time analyzing

service agreements. Will you receive regular software updates at no additional charges? Will

you have to pay for hardware upgrades as your business grows? What is the reputation of the

proposing vendor? You need to know if they are going to take care of you when you need it the

most.

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Useful Guide For Retail POS SystemThe POS system is actually created from POS hardware and POS software. Particularly, the retail POS software contributes for improvement of retail business processes to large extends. 

At this point some useful facts about the retail POS hardware and software would be mentioned, as these two components create the retail POS system. Additionally, short explanation about using of the POS systems in the retail industry will be given. 

As was mentioned above, the POS software actually helps to retail businesses with cash transactions. And not only with cash transactions but the POS software contributes for efficient inventory management, customer relationship management, and also provides the entrepreneurs with the newest changes of relevant business features during everyday business activities such as purchased orders from suppliers, discount functions, and reports. 

However, the POS software works if applied at the machines devices known as POS hardware. Therefore essential components of retail the POS hardware are: 

- cash drawer that process transactions and is attached and connected to the computer- hand held barcode scanner or wireless barcode scanner- credit/debit card reader - thermal receipt printer or impact receipt printer 

For the POS system to be complete there is appropriate POS software application for processing sales transactions. Also some space available in the business premises where the POS hardware will be set is necessary. All these parts could not work effectively if the enterprises haven’t trained staff to operate with the software. 

Apart of the above mentioned, interesting to be known is that the POS software could be used for internet purchasing, by implementing integrated e-commerce strategy. 

Furthermore, there are large functions that the POS software could fulfilled and each of them is important for better productivity and achieving competitive advantage. The POS software could track the sales in a period of time and as such provide figures of sold amount of items for a period. According the customer loyalty program, the POS software could track how many clerks provides customer service. The POS software also, could provide useful financial information such as revenue per sales for a period of time or revenue per item sold. 

Regarding inventory management, the POS software could track which item should be re-ordered as the business could not failed by not having stored those items those items when they are required by the customers. 

Related with above mentioned, retailers should not see investing in the POS software as a cost, but investing in the POS software should be observed as investment in the better business effectiveness. The data from the business operations that could be gained by using of the POS software could contribute for effective customer relationship management, more productive inventory management, and as such POS software could display the wide picture about relevant points in business processes that have best performance and those that need

an improvementhttp://www.alexandriacomputers.com/Useful-guide-for-retail-POS-system-aid37

POS System – A Useful Help For RetailersFor many years the sound of cash machine is the one of the best things that could happen during the working hours for the entrepreneurs. Nowadays, with emerging trend of designing and inventing new technologies, probably the entrepreneurs could change their habits listening the sound from their cash registers and to switch towards more sophisticated motive for doing business. Therefore, this new-old motive is actually the well known one, and it’s the making of business more effective and productive, for the purpose to achieve the business goals and meet the business financial objectives. By using of retail POS software, above mentioned could become business reality.

Every business has specific requirements according to particular business environment where operates. According to those needs an entrepreneurs could choose the retail POS software that is compatible with their requirements.At this point, for having more tangible clue about the elements that consists POS system, one could count the essential parts of the POS hardware which are computer, cash drawer, receipt printer, bar code reader and credit card reader.

Apart of above mentioned POS hardware elements, one of the advantages of using POS software is accurate, up-dated assessment of inventory at the store. System could be navigated automatically to count the stored items. Navigated as such, using of particular POS software could save employees time to count the stored items on daily basis.Additionally, software could be set to arrange re-orders of the items. Furthermore, POS software could provide many statistical data that could be important for making appropriate business decisions. These figures could be checking of average paid amount for some item, the average sell during the pick hours, and many more. 

The recent researches represent that there is huge amount of financial assets that are lost because of exceeding of stored inventory or because of lack of inventory stored. These facts could be issue especially in the moments when some of the items are required by the customers.  

Retail POS software is very useful for customer relationship management as well. This is the fact because point-of-sale software could have function for keeping customer shopping history. With such function, retailer could customize the offer regarding customers’ preferences and meeting customers needs and wants to bigger extend than usual. 

To summarize, one should pointed out that by using of particular POS software, retail businesses could not just have appropriate assessment of the cash and inventory, but also they could add value to their overall business offer by establishing service that will keeps the customer’s loyalty on satisfaction level. Hence, the retailers’ offer could be customized regarding customers’ needs and wants.

An example of the return of investment could be represent with following short example. 

The savings of cutting costs with implementing POS software when one average retail business is taken into consideration are estimated approximately on 10 % from the revenue. For example, from 400.000$ revenue, 40.000$ could be saved on cutting costs from business operations when POS is installed. Compared with 1.500$ which is approximate amount of investment in POS software, one could conclude that POS software is appropriate investment in nowadays competitive retail environment

LOCAL

POS SYSTEM PHILIPPINES

http://worldibs.com/pos-system-philippines/

By: Barretto, Bernard A

Point of sales is a system that is used for managing the sales of retail goods including their inventory. Most businesses small or big use this for their cashier because they use this system for making the transaction easy and fast. Here in the Philippines many business or company are looking for a POS system that has the quality, features that are unique that can be very useful on their daily transaction. Investing for a point of sales system is becoming the most important step a business should do first, it will improve overall sales and customer services.

With the many useful features found in today’s equipment you will find that once you have it installed it in your terminal, you will notice the improvement in your overall business operations and your customers satisfaction will increase.

Point of sales is networked to a database that will let you see every aspect of your sale every minute, This allows you to see what is selling in your store and what is not moving very well.  It will inform you when you will order new products and invest only in those items that are actually selling well. It makes no sense to continue buying stocks of the items that are not selling well but buy more stock on the good stuff.

Many POS providers also offer you the choice to customize your own POS system, it will let you create your own business solution on what are the most important features your business needs. Because POS system can be used in a Grocery Store, Pawnshop, Hotel and many more.

Should you need a software for your business we recommend IBS Worldwide they are Philippines no1 pos provider and they have the best inventory system in the country as well.

 

Point Of Sale Software In PhilippinesBy: etpseo

http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Point-Of-Sale-Software-In-Philippines/3236820#.URq2k5NGR6E

During the past decade, a growing number of vendors have started offering advanced point of sale software (POS) in the Philippines many of these vendors enjoy growing world popularity for their reliability and advanced features embed in their software platforms. Just twenty years ago, a POS terminal was a rarity outside international store and restaurant chains, even in Manila, while in present-day it is a common device and can be seen starting from a local grocery, to a large store, to entertainment venues worldwide.

Non-tech savvy customers and corporate executives are familiar with most basic functions of POS system; namely, its ability to allow salespersons to manage the selling process, while creating and printing receipts. This is the most visible part of POS software but far more advanced functionality can be embed into a POS system, managing, customer relationships, customer service, inventory, allowing remote support procedures and standard hardware interface, for instance. Advanced features of good POS systems should also enable support for various command protocols, thus securing interoperability between different displays and printers, on the one hand, and various POS terminals and computer devices, on the other hand.

Recently, with the rapid emergence and development of Web 2.0, a growing number of vendors provide web-based and cloud-based POS solutions. An advanced POS platform may feature web functionality, allowing POS terminals to connect to a remote corporate server within a corporate local area network (LAN) or other type of enterprise computer network. In addition, such POS solutions can be hosted on third party servers, allowing businesses to take advantage of lower costs for licensing of software, hardware and software maintenance expenditures, and

payroll costs related to maintain a larger team of IT specialists. However these POS platforms require very high reliability of networks, low latency and secure connection to the serves, preventing intruders from entering the corporate network and isolating POS terminals from other sensitive segments. Such network systems are not yet in place in most ASEAN countries and till they are clod based POS systems are not a viable option.Ability to support touch screen technology is gaining popularity among both software vendors and end-customers. A POS terminal, featuring a touch screen, usually contains all hardware and software required to run a reliable POS system, therefore, no need for connecting additional peripherals exists. These are often referred to as all-in-one POS systems and can save counter space needed for other purposes, in addition to lower costs caused by a fewer peripherals a business is forced to purchase.

Furthermore, an advanced POS system offers functionality to process and manage promotional sales, maintain records of existing customers, validate coupons and handle various types of payments, including purchases in foreign currency. This is of special interest to retailers which deal with a fair number of foreign customers on a daily basis.

Inventory management functionality is a standard in modern POS software platforms, enabling managers and back-office staff to perform operations related to indenting, issues, receipts, transfers, stock take etc. Actually, the price of a POS system that features inventory functionality is already in the same price range as systems with more limited functionality, therefore, a growing number of enterprises prefer to purchase a POS platform that offers such functions. A relatively new technology in the sphere of POS devices is a built-in functionality to support tablet and other mobile platforms using a wireless network, allowing mobile POS terminals to be used within the store of a retailer.

In fact, programmability is not considered an advanced feature of a POS system anymore, with many vendors allowing enterprises to configure their newly purchased POS terminals to suit their business needs. Internet-ready and programmable devices are already widespread, so software and hardware vendors today focus more on improving features related to security, reliability, and interoperability rather than developing new methods of communication between devices. POS platforms vary greatly from vendor to vendor, therefore, corporate executives should carefully select software and hardware that can be best customized to meet their particular business needs and requirements.