If you’re running an eCommerce store, you’ve probably heard of the option to use POS on your site; but what’s all the fuss about? Is a POS system really such an asset to your eCommerce store? What does it do that your merchant payment options don’t already? Here’s everything you need to know about eCommerce sites and POS systems and why you should utilize one of these amazing tools on your own site.
ECommerce and POS Go Together
There’s often a misconception that POS systems are strictly for brick and mortar locations. While POS systems certainly operate in brick and mortar locations, they can also integrate incredibly well with eCommerce sites to provide an easier payment processing solution for online merchants.
Ecommerce sites can benefit from the inventory management tools, payment integration tools, and other management features of a modern POS system. You’ll be able to run a more efficient website overall; making a POS system truly a necessity for your site. If you’ve never thought about using one of these systems on your eCommerce site, consider the following features that can truly revolutionize the way you do business.
Inventory Mangement Has Never Been Easier
POS systems take the pain and stress out of inventory management. This can be a stressful and often confusing process, especially if you have multiple people performing the counts. Information is often misinterpreted or confused, and manual counts are prone to error. Not to mention, with certain software, it can be nearly impossible to synchronize in-store and online inventory numbers.
A POS system will eliminate the stress and worry of your old inventory system. With all of your inventory stored and managed in one software program, you’ll have no trouble synchronizing (accurate) numbers on both your online store and your brick and mortar location(s). This makes keeping track of products and ensuring your customers’ favorite items are in stock is simple; with easy to use, intuitive software at your fingertips.
Many POS systems update inventory in real-time, so no matter what time of day you’re accessing the system, your counts will always be accurate.
Unify Online and Offline Operations
Unifying your in-store and online operations is essential for greater efficiency. You can’t exactly run two businesses at once without some difficulty, so any aspect that you can unify will benefit you greatly. A POS system will unify payment processing methods, inventory management, and even stock ordering. Many POS systems can integrate directly with third-party software such as Quickbooks, so even your budgeting and taxation software will be updated on a daily basis.
Don’t make the mistake of trying to run an eCommerce store without the right tools. POS systems can help you improve your marketing efforts as well, making your business more effective at retaining the loyalty of your current customers and attracting new ones.
Once you unify your operations across all platforms, you’ll find that your business runs smoother and there’s less confusion (and work) all around. You’ll have more time to address other aspects of your business, such as connecting with customers and expanding your operations.
Accept More Payment Methods
The more payment methods your online store can accept, the more customers you’ll have access to. People like to pay in specific ways for goods and services, so as an eCommerce store, it’s important that you cater to as many of these payment methods as possible; so you can have access to a wider customer base.
If you’re only accepting credit card payments, you’re already falling behind in the payment processing trends. While credit cards are still one of the most widely-used payment options, there are dozens of other payment methods available, and new ones are created every year.
An All-In-One Management Solution
Essentially, a POS system is your all-in-one business management solution. From inventory management to payment processing, POS systems make managing your online store easier, more efficient and unify operations across all platforms.
Whether you’re running one website or several, or have a brick and mortar location to accompany your website, your business can truly benefit from a modern POS solution. Don’t take the risk of managing your inventory manually, or using an outdated POS system, when there are literally dozens of POS options available for eCommerce stores.
If you’re looking for a new POS system, start with brands like Vend, Shopify, or Square that already have a reputation for excellence in the POS market. The best POS software is just a click away!
The Take-Away
Even the best of managers need help sometimes. With a modern POS system, you’ll have access to the best technology on the market and a 24/7 support staff that’s ready to address any issues that may arise. Don’t leave your eCommerce store to the mercy of faulty and outdated merchant services; choose a POS system that can help you better organize and streamline your business operations.
