Restaurant & Bar Owners' Guide to Choosing the Right POS System
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Your Point-of-Sale (POS) system is the beating heart of your bar or restaurant. It handles orders, processes payments, tracks inventory, and generates valuable data – all while keeping things running smoothly during peak hours. But with so many options on the market, choosing the wrong POS system can be a costly mistake.
This blog post will equip you with the knowledge to avoid common pitfalls and find the perfect POS system to streamline your operations and boost your bottom line.
The Right POS System Will:
Handle High Volumes with Ease: Can your POS system keep up during a busy Friday night rush? Look for a system that can process multiple orders simultaneously and accept various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, contactless payments, and even gift cards.
Embrace the Latest Technology: Does your POS system integrate with cutting-edge solutions like Apple Pay and Google Pay? Being on top of the latest payment trends provides a seamless experience for your customers and keeps your business competitive.
Offer Frictionless Customer Experience: A clunky POS system can frustrate both customers and staff. Choose a system with an intuitive interface that allows for quick order entry, easy splitting of bills, and smooth checkout processes.
Minimize Transaction Fees: Credit card processing fees can eat into your profits. Look for a POS system that offers transparent pricing and competitive rates, and allows you to choose your own merchant service provider to avoid vendor lock-in and inflated fees.
Be User-Friendly and Trainable: Your staff needs to be comfortable using the POS system. Choose a system with a clean interface and readily available training materials, so your team can be up and running quickly.
7 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a POS System:
Skipping the Research: Don't just go with the first system you see. Take time to understand your specific needs and research different POS solutions. Make a list of essential features and compare options based on your criteria.
Not Testing It Out: A free trial is a must! Don't invest in a system you haven't experienced firsthand. Put the POS system through its paces during the trial period. Can it handle your typical order volume? Is it intuitive for both staff and customers?
DIY Installation: POS systems involve complex hardware and software integration. Trust a professional to ensure a smooth setup and avoid costly errors.
Ignoring Future Costs: Look beyond the initial purchase price. Factor in ongoing costs like monthly subscriptions, technical support fees, software updates, and credit card processing charges.
Violating Your Agreement: Don't get caught off guard by hidden fees or limitations. Read the fine print of your service agreement carefully. Understand things like monthly processing volume limits and potential early termination penalties.
Neglecting Powerful Features: Modern POS systems offer a treasure trove of features beyond basic order processing. Explore functionalities like inventory management, customer relationship management (CRM) tools, marketing automation capabilities, and detailed reporting options. These features can help you streamline operations, personalize customer experiences, and make data-driven decisions for your business.
Inadequate Staff Training: Don't leave your staff floundering with a new system. Invest in proper training to ensure they can utilize the POS system to its full potential.
Why Choose Riverside Payments?
At Riverside Payments, we understand the importance of having the right POS system in place. That's why we offer a variety of solutions to cater to the unique needs of your bar or restaurant.
Here's what sets us apart:
Unmatched Selection: Choose from seven different POS systems, each with its own set of features and functionalities. Find the perfect fit for your business size, budget, and operational requirements.
Flexibility and Freedom: We believe in giving you control. Unlike some POS providers who lock you into their own merchant services, we allow you to choose your own credit card processor to ensure you get the most competitive rates.
Hassle-Free Setup & Support: Our experts will handle the entire installation process, free of charge. We also offer 24/7 technical support to ensure you get the help you need whenever you need it.
Future-Proof Technology: The world of payments is constantly evolving. We stay on top of the latest trends and keep you updated with the most advanced POS solutions, so your system never becomes outdated.
