Cloud based POS

03 May 2017

Written by Libby James

Libby James is co-founder, director and an expert in all things merchant services. Libby is the go-to specialist for business with more complex requirements or businesses that are struggling to find a provider that will accept them. Libby is regularly cited in trade, national and international media.

In this article

Share this article with others:

Cloud based point of sale systems

Cloud based point of sale systems are becoming increasingly popular amongst business owners in both retail and hospitality sectors. Web based point of sale systems contain features that simplify management and reporting processes.

Both the majority of complete EPOS solutions and iPad alternatives use cloud storage, this is a model of data storage in which the digital data is stored in local pools, which brings a lot of benefits to business managers or owners – especially those not regularly on a premises

Real time reporting

Providing there is an Internet connection, cloud based POS systems means information such a profits, payroll, stock levels and staff resource can be accessed – all in real time – from anywhere in the world at any time and from any device.

Hardware repairs

Traditional Windows run point of sale systems are prone to glitches and crashing. If software get a virus or files corrupt then it requires IT support from the POS provider to fix issues. This can take time if you don’t have a support package it could be quite costly. Another benefit of web based POS software is that if you have issues on one device you can switch to another easily, meaning no ‘downtime’ for customers or clients. If the hardware glitches on a cloud EPOS all the information can still be assessed easily on another device.

Flexibility

Cloud based point of sale systems are the go-to product for pop-up shops, boutiques or businesses that don’t have a fixed premises. With a cloud based system you can trade from anywhere – making events like trade shows or markets easily accessible.

Offline access

The majority of web based POS systems allow you to access the back end system whilst offline. The information is not updated in real-time without internet connection but it does allow access to reporting, data and all information updated the last time it was synched with an internet connection.

Integration

Cloud POS systems easily integrate with the majority of accounting systems, booking systems and loyalty cards as well as existing websites and apps.

Get in touch

At Merchant Advice Service we understand that all businesses are different. Whilst cloud POS systems may not be right for some companies, it provides the flexibility and sophistication most businesses require. The future of web based POS systems is undeniable and our advisors are on the pulse of its technological developments.

If you need advice in choosing a cloud based EPOS system get in touch today and one of our experts can guide you through the process. All our advice is completely free, impartial and some with absolutely no obligation.