The wrong POS system can hurt your profits and alienate customers. Here are some tips to increase your chances of success with POS selection:

1. Insufficient planning is the number one mistake. Create a detailed action plan to select and install your system. Identify all the POS functions that your operation needs. Check our site for the “POS features list” that you can use as a guide.

2. Is the POS system designed for your industry?

3. Does the POS provider serve customers that are the same “size” as your operation?

4. How easy is the POS system to use for your employees?

5. How compatible is the POS system with any systems you already have or plan to buy?

6. How compatible is the POS system with your home office systems?

7. Can the system grow if you increase the number of locations?

8. Can the system be upgraded as new features are released?

9. Check system performance in the field for transaction and processing speed.

10. Analyze firewall, encryption and security risks, especially if the system is web-based or an ASP.

11. In addition to vendor costs, factor in on-going maintenance.

12. Does the support organization have a “can do” attitude and a 24/7 help desk?

13. Evaluate the training offerings and confirm your supplier can serve your location and your type of staff.

14. Call accounts that already have the system and see how satisfied they are.