How long has it been since you installed the latest technology? Maybe it is time to take another look at your POS System and consider software updates, security, compliance, and cost.
POS System Features
Does your point of sale have the latest features such as the ability to export data to QuickBooks, remote management connectivity, email and text receipts? Perhaps all of that, but does it also have third-party delivery integration, connectivity to your loyalty program and seamless ability to accept and process online orders?
In recent years, major improvements have been made. New systems – or ones that you may not have considered – are now offering better features, are easier to use, and have options for conversion and migration.
Software Updates
Alternatively, your current system may have new features available. Be sure to research and decide if a software update would be helpful. Often, this is something you can do on your own. If you need help but don’t have a maintenance program, be sure to reach out and inquire about assistance options.
Security
New releases, once the bugs are worked out, can secure a business against the increasing threats. It is recommended to maintain the latest version of software to protect data, system vulnerabilities and functionality.
Whether it is encryption or ensuring lockdown of access to the database, having a Point Of Sale system that maintains robust security controls is critical.
Doing what you can in the business is also essential:
- Always have different logins for every employee
- Prompt password changes on a regular basis
- Do not allow employees to share logins
- Restrict remote access to systems by approved management only
Also be sure to maintain your Point Of Sale System on a separate wireless channel that customers are not able to access through “free Wi-Fi“ as a guest.
PCI Compliance
PCI should always be at the forefront of systems and technology. Maintaining compliance with the standards is not always intuitive or easy to do, however, if it is done on a regular basis, it becomes easier as as you create the habit. Remember to take these important steps to maintain PCI compliance.
This leads into our next point about mitigating expenses. Being able to prove you are compliant by following regular scan schedules can greatly reduce the cost. This regular practice eliminates unnecessary non-compliance fees.
Cost
As software continues to improve, costs typically go down. Negotiate software and technology updates up front. Then, installing new releases or upgrading software are included in your monthly subscription. Take advantage of these benefits.
It is important to always be aware of what the ongoing costs are. Carefully look at monthly statements to check whether or not new fees have been added recently.
Another way to reduce cost is to buy equipment rather than lease. It has been our experience that leasing often costs more overall.
Check Your System Status
In the near term, we do recommend you taking another look at all of these components and aspects of your POS System. We offer consultation to both existing and new clients to evaluate systems, software, security and new technology. Looking forward, always improving, and maintaining the most effective but cost-efficient systems is part of our core business at TransAct.
Reach out to schedule your consult via email or book online at your convenience.