No matter where you are in your business’s journey to success, the importance of a reliable and easy-to-use POS (point of service) system cannot be understated. Finding the right POS system for your quilt store can be difficult, primarily because there are so many to choose from, and often, each one offers different features. When looking for a new POS system, you must take your business and growth goals into consideration. Adopting new POS technology can have a positive impact on your company, but before you settle on a system, here are five essential questions to ask.
1. Can the POS Handle Inventory Management?
As a retailer, you know your inventory is the core of your business (in addition to your customer service), and you will need a system that can effectively and efficiently keep track of your assets. When looking for a new POS system, you must make sure it has built-in purchasing and useful organizational tools. The ideal POS system can handle complex inventory and items with different attributes, such as quilts that come in different sizes and colors.
Avoid settling for a quilt store POS with inefficient purchasing workflows. Your system must have built-in purchasing tools, allowing you to receive and create orders without leaving your point of sale. A system should also be able to set reorder points so you will know when you need to order more of a certain item before it runs out.
2. Can Your Employees Easily Operate the POS System?
Today’s customers have countless resources at their fingertips, including the internet, and often, customers conduct extensive research before patronizing an online store. For this reason, your employees need to feel ready to answer their questions, and they will need tools to help them do so.
An efficient POS system should help your employees or partners save time by giving them fast access to the information they need. This will allow them to serve customers better and act as knowledgeable ambassadors of your brand. The right POS system will provide benefits such as:
- Customizable dashboards
- Secure login process for all employees
- Easy-to-use tools
- Intuitive user interface
- Ability to complete detailed inventory entries
3. Can the POS System Offer Customers a Personalized Experience?
Your POS system should only empower your business – it should offer your customers a seamless experience as well. The right system can store customer profiles, including purchase histories, so you and your employees or partners can make tailored product recommendations. By having access to this customer data, you can help customers find additional products they may want to purchase while encouraging brand loyalty. Be sure your POS system comes with built-in loyalty tools, especially the ability to earn financial incentives by purchasing items and spending certain amounts of money.
4. Does the POS System Support Your Goals?
All retailers are different, and more than likely, your store has its own set of challenges, requirements, goals, and preferences. When seeking out a new POS system, you want to make sure it can support your needs and goals. You will also want a system that provides excellent support if you encounter problems or need additional help. Before making a purchase, ask the vendor if a POS system offers:
- Online social media tools
- Local channel partners (specialists who help with installation, troubleshooting, and consultations)
- Various ways to reach the customer support staff
- Published online product reviews and customer satisfaction ratings
- Onboarding sessions for new employees
The traits listed above can help your company save time and money in the long run.
5. Does the POS System Offer Data Analytics?
Getting an idea of your company’s performance can be difficult. Many companies operate without this data, but unfortunately, it is hard to get a clear understanding of a business’s current state without it. In today’s highly competitive climate, you must use data to make important business decisions. A good POS system can show you where you excel, as well as where you can make improvements. The data it provides should be easy to process and understand.
Choose a System That Will Help Your Business Grow and Succeed
If your quilt store is in the process of looking for a new POS system, keep the previously mentioned questions in mind. They can help you find a system that meets your standards and helps your company grow and succeed.
