5 POS Software Buying Tips
- By Jeff Haefner

Here are a few tips about purchasing point of sale (POS) software. These tips don't discuss the "software selection strategies" but they will help the actual purchase go smooth.

Tip #1 - Choose Software First

I can't tell you how many times I've heard a retailer say, "I just bought new computers and printers and I have everything ready to go. Now I need to find POS software."

These retailers could have saved a lot of time and money by selecting POS software first!

Why?
Your POS software will have hardware and operating system requirements. For example, most software will require a certain version of Windows, Unix or Linux. In addition, each program may only function with certain types of printers, scanners, cash drawers and card readers.

If you install your computer system first, you will limit your POS software choices. The POS system that you choose is very important. It will have the huge impact on the efficiency of your business! The perfect fit for your business might run on UNIX but you already bought a Windows 2003 Server! You might also find that the printers and scanners you just bought aren't compatible either.

You can avoid frustration and save money if you choose the POS software first. Then you can ask the software company about their recommended hardware and operating systems.

Tip #2 - Buy From One Source

If you buy hardware and software from different companies you could run into some frustrating situations.

For example, when you have a problem and call for support, the 'blame game' could begin. The software company will blame the hardware company, the hardware company will blame the computer company, and the computer company will blame the software company.

I've seen this happen too many times. It's usually best to buy your hardware and software from one source. You might pay a little more overall, but it's worth it if you have a problem. Plus they can pre-configure the computer system and save you time!

Tip #3 - Buy Name Brand

Many computers will have a 1 - 3 year warranty and possibly on-site service. Your POS hardware (receipt printers, cash drawers, etc) typically have a 1 year warranty.

To avoid issues with your warranty, it's best to buy everything name brand. If the company you bought from goes out of business, you still have full support from the manufacturers.

Tip #4 - Pay with Credit Card

If you're looking to buy your POS software system on the internet or by mail order - pay with a credit card! If you're unhappy or they don't deliver as promised you can dispute the charge to your credit card. If you pay by check, money order, or lease make sure that you check the BBB and also run a D and B listing on the company.

Tip #5 - Don't Forget the Miscellaneous Items

When you're reviewing and comparing price quotes you need to consider the miscellaneous items. They can quickly add up! Some POS companies will include everything and others will leave certain items out of their quote.

Here's a checklist of items that you'll need to consider:

Training fees

Support fees

Software update / maintenance fees

Data conversion fees

Receipt printers

Barcode scanners

Reports printers

Cash drawers

Surge protectors

Battery backups (UPS)

Tape backup system

Cables for printers, computers, and your network

Network hubs

Internet access routers for shared internet access

Paper - Thermal paper, pre-preprinted invoices, plain paper, etc.

To Your Success.

Jeff Haefner