Three Reasons to Consider Embedded POS Systems
If you’re starting off the new year with plans to purchase or update your business’ point of sale (POS) system, you have probably found that there are many options to choose from. If you want to narrow your options to smart, simple solutions, consider embedded POS systems. Unlike running POS software on general-use hardware such as a PC or tablet, embedded POS is a self-sufficient system with software and hardware dedicated exclusively to POS functions.
There are three major advantages to choosing an embedded POS system:
1. Reliability
Downtime is a word no one in business wants to hear. With an embedded POS system, you’ll greatly reduce the chances of downtime related to IT — and the costs associated with service and support. Embedded POS is designed for uptime: terminals are solid-state devices with no moving parts, and they have no hard drives, which are often the culprits in system crashes. The mean time between failures (MTBF) for solid-state devices is decades longer than the average person’s lifespan. An embedded POS system is also a self-healing network, designed with redundancies that allow a continuous flow of data. If part of the system fails, the rest of the system keeps working and when the problem is corrected, the network communicates with the device that was working offline.
Embedded POS systems are also easy to use, and they’re ready to go, right out of the box — just power up and set up using the intuitive interface. With no complicated installation or maintenance, you’ll save on IT costs, too.
2.Security
Safeguarding customers’ sensitive data, such as credit card information, is critical. An ever-growing list of retailers and restaurants, from Macy’s and Whole Foods to Cheddar’s and Panera Bread, have experienced data breaches — and small businesses shouldn’t consider themselves any less of a target than large enterprises. An embedded POS system offers greater security because it is a closed environment. It has no file manager, so files containing viruses or malware cannot be downloaded onto it, and hackers can’t access or upload data files from it. This highly secure system can protect your customers and your business from the disastrous consequences of a data breach. Plus, you’ll save money since you won’t have to purchase and maintain antivirus or antimalware programs.
3. Productivity
An embedded POS system is designed for one job only: POS functionality. It’s like a calculator, which will perform all of the mathematical operations you want — but that’s all it does. You can’t take a selfie with it, or post to Instagram, or play Candy Crush on it. Similarly, an embedded POS limits your employees to business-related tasks and removes the temptations of checking email and social media, watching videos, or playing games. You’ll see increased productivity as employees focus on the work you’re paying them for.
Trust the Experts
Investing in a POS system is an important decision — and one you’ll be reminded of on a daily basis as you operate and manage your business. A POS solution provider with expertise providing solution to businesses in your industry is a great source of information and can help you choose the best POS system and enjoy the greatest ROI. Talk to your provider to learn what embedded POS can offer your business.
