Two primary types of POS systems exist, and it can be tricky to decide which is best. Popular opinion may suggest going for a cloud-based POS system in Kenya, but it’s worth considering the other options before making your choice.
Importance of choosing the right POS system
If you have the right POS system in Kenya, it will have a significant impact on your business, particularly with financial management and customer satisfaction. Here are some reasons to get a POS system:
- The right POS systems will help you streamline business operations, enabling faster transaction processing and more efficient payment processing.
- The right POS systems will also help you create positive customer check out experiences.
- Data collation and management are also easier with POS systems. They provide an efficient means for collecting and storing business data.
- Lastly, POS systems are adaptable to various business needs and settings. They’ll also remain effective even as your business expands.
What is a mobile POS system in Kenya?
A mobile POS is a cloud-based system that allows you to process transactions and manage day-to-day checkout operations via smartphones or tablets. Stores can efficiently perform payment acceptance, sales data tracking, and report generation.
POS systems are capable of performing the following:
- Cash register functions
- Sales reporting
- Inventory management
- Customer management
- Employee management
Advantages of a cloud-based or mobile POS in Kenya
Mobile point-of-sale systems in Kenya incorporate features and capabilities that make them advantageous for several business functions.
Cost-efficient system
You’ll spend a relatively lesser amount of money to set up a mobile POS system. Generally, you’ll only incur subscription fees monthly or yearly. You won’t need any on-premise installation; save the software on your device to start using the system.
Accessible and portable
Whether you are using a remote desktop like Anydesk to access your traditional POS system from a different location or a mobile POS that lets you get all the data from anywhere with a mobile device, being able to access all your data all the time is essential.
Also, a key merit of mobile POS (mPOS) systems is their flexibility, which enables users to access business data from anywhere with an internet connection. Unlike traditional POS systems, where the business data is only available on local hardware, all the information in mPOS systems goes to cloud storage.
This accessibility is especially valuable if you have business outlets across several locations or you operate a mobile setup, so food truck operators and retail outlets particularly benefit from this perk.
Offers scalability and flexibility
Cloud-based POS systems in Kenya like PawaPOS are also highly scalable. It doesn’t matter the extent of your business’s expansion; the solution will continue serving you efficiently. It’ll let you grow your operations without the hassle of installing additional hardware.
Plus, mPOS systems are flexible and customizable to fit specific business requirements. Plus, they can easily incorporate auto-dialer software for your sales and call requirements.
Keeps up with tech updates
Cloud service providers regularly perform across-the-board updates for their systems. You won’t need to download and install new updates periodically to keep your POS systems functioning optimally. All new upgrades get installed into the system automatically, ensuring you always have the latest features without adding them manually.
Disadvantages of cloud-based POS
Expectedly, mobile POS systems also have a few undesirable you should consider before choosing them.
They rely on internet connectivity
One of the main drawbacks of an mPOS system is you need the internet to use it. This requirement renders them useless in locations without connectivity. Also, a loss of internet connectivity will disrupt operations and may lead to a loss of sales.
Security and privacy concerns
Since mPOS grants the ability to access business data from anywhere, anybody with the login credentials can access your account remotely. In addition, cloud systems are constant subjects of cyberattacks, which are sometimes successful. On the other hand, legacy POS systems are relatively safe from such risks.
Picking between a mobile POS and a legacy POS
Ultimately, the legacy POS vs mobile POS decision depends on your business’s specific needs and priorities. As such, you must carefully assess your requirements and consider the cost, mobility, scalability, and security factors.
Regardless of the option you choose, investing in a reliable POS system in Kenya will contribute to improving your business operations and customer satisfaction.
