At the Point of Sale - Business POS Systems
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Posted On :
May-04-2010
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Article Word Count :
511
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First, the article presents an in-depth definition of point of sale software. Then it explores common capabilities and usages as well as considerations necessary prior to purchase.
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Point of sale software is a specific type of software application that caters to retailers. It often includes a wide range of functions. However, the core components are the operation of the cash drawer and the calculation of sales. Some form of point of sale software powers all computerized cash registers.
The software is responsible for itemizing the purchase, calculating a total, figuring state sales tax, if applicable, and calculating change back from the amount tendered. Today's sophisticated point of sale systems also automatically adjusts the store's inventory system, in turn powering automated purchasing systems.
Despite core similarities, points of sale software packages differ considerably from each other. In order to choose the appropriate package for a particular store or business, the retailer must be well informed. Retailers accomplish this by assessing and prioritizing the business' needs. At a minimum, a retail business needs a system that manages sales, manages an inventory database, and operates a cash drawer and barcode scanner.
The necessity of more advanced features may be obvious. For instance, comprehensive inventory management capabilities might be overkill for the mom and pop shop while being a critical requirement for the multi-store chain. Other advanced features will be less obvious. Sales reps for point of sale software companies can help the retailer itemize the business' needs, and then find and fine-tune the appropriate package to fit them.
An important requirement for all business large and small is database functionality. A small shop may not need the automation that a large shop does but it still needs the ability for advanced queries. All business will want to be able to search their inventory based on keywords, item description, stock keeping unit (SKU), category and vendor. Keyword search is especially important so that the system does not force cashiers to memorize SKUs. This leads to additional work when the cashier does not remember and must perform an inventory check.
Modern data storage is extremely inexpensive due to plummeting hardware prices. Point of sale software systems should take advantage of this by recording and backing up the store's entire history. This means being able to track every purchase, refund and exchange ever made at a particular business. Due to its inexpensive nature, this functionality is worth possessing even if the retailer does not see an immediate need. The analytical possibilities that it presents may prove beneficial down the road. For instance, one can use the database to determine seasonal items and when to increase or decrease inventory of those items.
Another core necessity is a versatile data interface and the built-in capability for growth. In order words, a retailer wants a system that can export information in a format he or she doesn't even know they need yet. If a system requires expansion in a year, a retailer should have the confidence that today's point of sale software purchase will still be viable. Fortunately, most modern systems include this type of functionality as a core goal. It is a valuable warning sign when a system does not.
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Article Source :
http://www.articleseen.com/Article_At the Point of Sale - Business POS Systems_17885.aspx
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Author Resource :
To buy and to find out more about point of sale, please visit point of sale software.
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Keywords :
sale software, pos systems, business, point of sale,
Category :
Business
:
Sales
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