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In today’s hyper-competitive world, every business is investing heavily to live up to the expectations of their customers. Revamping the fringes are not enough, and it is the core strategy that needs an overhaul. This is particularly important in the context of developing economies like India, which has witnessed an exponential rise in the aspiring middle-class population, who can afford a world class service. For instance, a common trend points to the preference of cashless transactions by means of debit/credit cards while making payment. This is almost in the verge of becoming a minimum standard, or more appropriately, a prerequisite to attract and satisfy customers. Thus, keeping pace with its peers in the genre of retail business, restaurants in the subcontinent are keen to adopt POS (Point of Sale) system which, among its various functionalities, distinctly addresses the growing concern of customers over acceptance of plastic money. Being a combination of hardware and software, a POS system can potentially streamline internal operations and management of a restaurant, which is indeed a great assistance in the task of maintaining overall profitability. However, the price varies over a number of factors like complexity of software and reputation of vendor to name a few, and it is up to the owner of the restaurant to decide the best mix for his nature & scale of business. Rest assured, decision making regarding investment in infrastructure is a tough job, and a bit of genuine advice might be of help. So here goes some very pertinent suggestions, which can make a difference in the quality of decision someone takes regarding buying a restaurant POS system. First and foremost, zero down a vendor that offers on-site installation and excellent after-sales service, and do sufficient research on its reputation. After all, it is unwise to fiddle with sophisticated hardware and complicated software even after paying hefty sums, which is nothing but an unnecessary distraction and harassment. If a vendor provides prompt technical support from a remote location, then it is a plus. Secondly, choose a set of hardware that occupies minimum possible floor space. Perhaps, any sensible owner will prefer to accommodate few more customers over a sprawling set of machines having large footprint, especially when business is in full swing. Swanky looking restaurant POS system getting more importance than customers is always a disadvantage, if it contradicts fundamental business principles. Software packages in nicely packed CD-ROMs that accompany the gadgets are essentially application suites. The more its functional diversity, the better your ROI. So check for the features that such software claims to offer, and test run them for consistency. Even better, if the vendor agrees to train your staff regarding its optimum usage. Last but not the least, a large touch screen monitor, along with an entire gamut of peripherals, should ideally be waterproof. Bigger touchscreen simply implies easier identification & swift selection of items, promptly generated KOT, and better service by reducing the turnaround time. Also, waterproof equipment minimizes the chance of the hardware getting damaged due to unintentional, but inevitable spill overs by the waiters, who put in extra efforts to impress customers & patrons and win handsome tips. Having said it all, I must acknowledge the fact that the points discussed above are not complete in any sense, and as such, should not be regarded as a comprehensive guide on procurement of a restaurant POS system. Readers must use their own intellect and discretion to decide what’s best for their business. Author’s Bio: Steve Jo is a serial entrepreneur and an associate mentor of Swadesh Softwares Pvt. Ltd., and attempts to create magic with his authentic piece on trivialities of a restaurant POS system. He enjoys delving into research and critical review. He is an avid reader who voraciously ingests anything that has a positive impact on life.
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