This is especially true when it comes to POS (point of sale) systems. Your POS system is a crucial part of your operations, and having a bad one can be detrimental to your success.
If your POS system is struggling to meet your needs, it might be time poland number for whatsapp to start shopping. Here’s a look at the top signs that it’s time to upgrade your POS system.
To jump to a specific section:
What is the difference between a legacy system and a cloud system?
When should you change your POS system?
How to change your POS system
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POS Systems: Legacy vs. Cloud
Before we dive any further into whether it’s time to upgrade your POS system, it’s important to distinguish between legacy and cloud systems.
Legacy systems are typically older (5 years or more) and are often installed locally. This means that you can’t access your data when you’re outside of your physical store, since the servers can only be started on your store’s local network. Legacy POS system hardware is typically large and bulky, and the software and hardware can be expensive to maintain.
Because they are older and more complicated to install, legacy POS systems often require on-site technical support for maintenance and upgrades. Maintaining a legacy system can be time-consuming and expensive.
Unlike legacy systems, cloud POS systems store data “in the cloud,” not on local servers. This means you can track your business results from anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection.
Software updates are also very easy to do: you just click in a few places, and voila! You have the latest software. In fact, many software updates can be pushed automatically, so you don't even have to worry about them.
Despite the inaccessibility and cost of legacy systems, some businesses continue to use them because they feel they’re better suited for more complex retail businesses. But the truth is, while some cloud POS systems are designed for smaller retailers, others— like Lightspeed —offer the flexibility of the cloud, while maintaining the multi-location and multi-channel tools that these more complex retail businesses need.
So there is no reason to stay chained to a legacy POS system, if its limitations are irritants for you.
When should you change your POS system?
There’s sometimes a fine line between your system acting up and it’s hurting your business’s growth. If you’re not sure which of these two categories you fall into, here’s a checklist to help you determine if it’s time to upgrade your POS system.
1. Your system is difficult to use
POS systems vary in complexity. While it’s great to have a POS system that can help you perform more complex tasks, if it’s too difficult or takes too long to process transactions, generate reports, or perform other necessary tasks on your to-do list, it’s probably not the best system for you.