Mobile POS (mPOS) systems are POS systems that operate on hand-held devices, such as smartphones and tablets. Having full point of sale functionality available in a small, agile device can be a major benefit for many retail businesses. This article explores the many advantages of mPOS systems, and introduces our Mobile POS system.
What is the difference between a traditional POS and a mobile POS?
Traditional POS systems are stationary, e.g. cash registers or self-checkout kiosks. A mobile POS operates on hand-held devices, like iPads. Sales, transactions and other functionality is no longer tied to specific locations around the store. This opens up new opportunities for businesses, and for many of them, it can be the ultimate freedom. Let’s dive into the benefits of going mobile!
8 benefits of mobile POS systems
1. Mobile flexibility
Some modern retail businesses do not operate out of a fixed location. In these cases, a mobile POS system can make a huge difference. A few examples of businesses that can benefit from this are pop-up stores, food trucks and cleaning services. Restaurants and cafés can accept table-side payments, speeding things up and improving experience for both customers and employees.
2. Customer-first
Moving from traditional POS to mobile POS allows on-the-move transactions and customer service. You will become more customer-focused than ever before, effectively accommodating their needs, regardless of location.
Detailed product information can be provided on the fly through the mobile device. Leading mPOS systems also have omnichannel integrations, ensuring a consistent shopping experience, including campaigns and loyalty programs.
3. Ease of use
Quality mPOS systems have intuitive, easy-to-navigate interfaces that require minimal training. It will speed up the adoption process, and make transactions and other tasks easy to perform, regardless of location. Customers will get better service, as employees have more time to provide in-person assistance. Some mobile POS systems also provide digital receipts, including e-mail options, further speeding up the checkout process.
4. Improved security
Businesses handling credit card information and other sensitive customer data need to have security in mind at all times. Most mobile POS systems do not store any customer information in the devices, reducing the risk of security breaches. Cutting-edge encryption technology ensures that the data is only visible to the sender and receiver.
5. Store layout flexibility
Using a mobile POS also gives you more freedom to tweak your in-store layout. As you no longer require dedicated checkout kiosks, or at least not as many, you will free up valuable floor space to work with. It is a great opportunity to simultaneously make the store environment more customer-friendly and grow the profits.
6. Increased checkout capacity
Mobile POS solutions can be used to complement the stationary POS setup, speeding up checkout process and avoiding queues. The mPOS technology can be added when needed, e.g. during peak seasons like Black Friday and Christmas. This increased flexibility can give a great in-store impression, boosting customer satisfaction.
7. Diverse payment methods
mPOS technology allows you to accept many different payment methods. Embracing modern payments, such as apps, increases customer satisfaction. At the same time, your business can use the same payment provider across the board to keep the operation smooth.
8. Inventory management
It is also good to have in mind that some systems can deliver full POS capabilities, including inventory management. Inventory management functionality will give the staff access to real-time product information, including alerts and reorder automation capabilities.
Mobile POS systems on different devices and operating systems
There are many mobile POS systems on the market, adapted to different devices and operating systems. Some run exclusively on iOS and Apple devices, while others offer greater flexibility or run on Android. It is important to keep the devices and operating systems in mind, if you have demands or preferences, e.g. integrations with specific technology or regulatory concerns.
How much does a mobile POS system cost?
Prices of mPOS and POS systems vary greatly across the market. To make a fair comparison, it is important to consider upfront costs, but also have maintenance, scaling and training costs in mind. Your business requirements need to be matched, ensuring that you will be getting the best possible long-term returns on your investment.
As with all POS systems, it is also essential to have a closer look at the subscription model. Do you pay per month, per user, per transaction, or how does it work? Are there any hidden costs you need to take into account?
Conclusion
Mobile POS systems increase your freedom and provide many advantages for modern retail businesses. To make the best out of it, you need to make an informed choice based on your business requirements and the options on the market. Our advice is finding a mobile POS that does more than just handling transactions; it should be a step forward that increases your efficiency and continually drives business growth.
Introducing the Extenda Retail Mobile POS System
The Extenda Retail Mobile POS System allows in-store staff to complete transactions anywhere, regardless if it is the fitting room or around the product shelves. With an optimized UX for mobile use cases and a customizable UI, it can run on both enterprise devices or mobile phones. It is based on the same transaction engine as your other checkout channels, it guarantees a consistent behavior and shopping experience. Enjoy all the benefits of a truly mobile POS solution, improving your business by busting queues, and exceeding customer expectations by meeting them in the aisles.
Ready to upgrade your payment solution? Move to a mobile POS, and exceed your own - and your customers' - expectations!
