Which EPoS System Should You Fix On?

Any business that sells products to customers can make use of an EPoS system. The size of EPoS system that you get will depend on how big the business is, a very small organisation may not need a complete system.

Stand-alone EPoS systems
The average cost is around £5,000. For your money you get a specialised EPoS terminal, software, a printer and a networked back office PC. These can easily be linked up to your website through XML or EDI links, so businesses with an internet shop and store can benefit. Highly beneficial if the company has more than one location such as hotels and department stores.

Software-based solutions
Your existing PC system might be able to run an EPOS application from it already, and the software costs around £350. There are many other features available that can simply be plugged in including printers, card readers and customer displays.

EPoS/Accounting systems
For a system that integrates accounts, you will need to spend approximately £500. If you need to boost your back office system you can also add on electronic funds transfer software and label printing for example. This can be a cheaper and more flexible way to buying EPoS software although your supplier will need to consult you on all of the modules and extras you will require.

Contract out EPoS to a third party specialist
This has only just been introduced to UK. An Application Service Provider (ASP) will rent specialised software to you and provide a secure, internet-based link to your system as well as managing your system. The ASP will sort out any technical issues you have with the system. You will need to have a secure broadband connection to run EPoS this way.

Customised EPOS solutions
If you have hardware or software for your business already then a software expert can design a system and integrate it with the rest of your technology and website. You will be looking to pay £10,000 or more for this type of service but and prices can vary widely depending on your own company’s needs. For very large corporations like hotel chains and national shops, this is the best EPoS system.