Designating The Right EPoS System

An EPoS system predominantly benefits organisations with a big throughput of goods to a huge customer foundation. 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
£5000 is the average cost of one of these systems. 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. For businesses with more than one store this would be an advantage.

Software-based solutions
If you have a PC that could run an EPoS system then you can get additional software for approximately £350. If you need additional software, a credit card reader, cash drawer etc then you can get these as a plug in.

EPoS/Accounting systems
You can get a system with accounting packages on for £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 concept is relatively new in the 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. Any technical problems that you come across will be solved by the ASP. Your retail holding will need access to broadband internet.

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. It will however cost you in excess of £10,000 as you are paying for labour and software but this price will change depending on your personal needs. This is the best EPoS system for large retailers and hospitality outlets like department stores, hotel chains etc.