subject: Point Of Sale And Retail Inventory Management In The Cloud [print this page] Cloud computing has evolved significantly in a short span of time to offer more applications to individuals and businesses. The same technology that allows individuals to save and access their videos, music and photos on any device that is web-connectable provides small businesses and large corporations operational efficiencies and consumer-centric benefits. In this regard, cloud-based inventory management and POS solutions are some of the retail industry applications.
But why should you replace your current POS system? In the good old days, hand-written inventory details, electronic cash registers and receipt books were the order of the day. Computer-based registries and DOS programs replaced them, speeding up work but not entirely eliminating the risk of human errors associated with important calculations. The latest technological solutions and tools eliminate inefficiencies and payment discrepancies whilst easing workloads. Cloud POS is a natural evolution that offers greater efficiencies - you can supervise your staff from your smartphone, manage store sales and your stores can get in-depth reports on inventory and sales control.
Compelling reasons to turn to the Cloud: Cloud-based applications provide accurate data in real time. They offer (a) customizable and detailed reporting (b) inventory alerts and tracking (c) flawless integrated payment processing (d) offsite access (e) customer management options and (f) location linking, among other benefits.
Being a subscription-based service, POS Cloud lowers your initial investment by a long shot, as you don't have to factor in licensing fees and software costs. The subscription fee that you pay each month covers support, security and program updates. These solutions also allow you to downgrade or upgrade your services, which again, helps your realize cost savings.
A common question that is asked is how POS capabilities are affected in the event of an internet outage. Many providers include a function that allows uninterrupted offline working. This means you can continue with sales duties when storing transaction and inventory data until the internet connection resumes, at which point the offline transactions are immediately updated.
It is difficult to identify a reason why the Cloud wouldnt be a worthy addition to your store. It is a good idea to examine the benefits you stand to gain from Cloud POS, regardless of whether you are looking for a new and affordable point of sale or retail inventory management system, or you are planning to upgrade your present inventory and POS practices.