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Smartphones are increasingly becoming less like communication devices, and more like smart gadgets or mini computers we can carry around with us. This is most evident in the business sector, where smartphones are used for everything from project management to international conferencing. Some companies are even designing entire business models around smartphone use (hello, Uber!). Thanks to the advent of mobile point of sales (POS) systems, businesses can now take it further.
A mobile POS system is similar to the computer-operated digital cash register systems at retail outlets. However, unlike the bulky POS systems customers see in stores, mobile POS systems are, well, mobile. In other words, a mobile POS system, or mPOS, is a digital card reader a seller can carry around. The card reader connects to a larger business transaction system, just like the regular POS systems. Obviously, mobile POS systems, like the one developed by SumUp, can make home deliveries cashless and more convenient for paying customers. Small businesses like food delivery services, food trucks, repair services, and traveling vendors can benefit the most.
Here are several tips on how an interested business can choose a suitable mPOS system:
Simple Design and Functionality
The first aspect to look for in a mPOS system is how well it is designed. It’s mobile, so the card reader should be physically designed to be compact and easy to carry around. Not only that, the accompanying software should be relatively easy to use as well. For example, Europe’s favorite SumUp mPOS systems offer 100% online, contract-free software signup plus a stylish card reader that fits in a jeans pocket. The interface of the system must be intuitive and very easy to use without requiring training.
Cybersecurity
No matter how well designed or easy-to-use a mPOS system is, it is not any good if the system is not secure. Keep in mind that cybercrimes are on the rise. Therefore, online security should be one of the prime concerns when buying a mPOS system. Look for mobile POS programs that are PCI compliant, which means the payments are encrypted. The best systems offer “charge back protection” that offers users more oversight on payments. Likewise, look for more features that ensure higher levels of online protection.
Reasonable Pricing
Of course, the mPOS system has to be reasonably priced for the businesses to justify the investment. Most mPOS systems charge for hardware, processing payments, and additional security features. Interested buyers will have to compare systems to find the best offer. SumUP, for example, charges only 2.75% per transaction and have no fixed fees. Calculate how much the hardware costs, but the most important fee is how much the mPOS developer charges per transaction.
Customer Support
Mobile POS systems, just like any other type of tech, will come with tech problems. Therefore, it’s very important to buy a system from a developer that offers 24/7 customer support and IT support. It’s best to avoid developers that charge hefty fees for providing required tech support.
Mobile POS systems are being hailed as the next great tech innovation for doing business. As customers are increasingly opting for cash-free online shopping, local stores will have to compete with giants like Amazon. A mPOS system could play an important role in this fight to attract customer attention.
