Should You Buy a Used POS System?

by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

When considering a point of sale system for your company, there are times when it is practical to purchase a used POS system. There also are times where it will be more cost effective to buy a new one. It is important to pay attention to minor details and get price quotes and product descriptions from several different vendors before making a decision.



Used POS System: Pricing

While pricing could play a role in your decision, it shouldn't be the deciding factor. The money that a POS system will save your business in the long run is likely far greater than any discount you will receive on a used POS system. Instead, look for the best system you can get that will fit your company's operational needs. Cheap POS systems are not always the best deal.

Software Support

POS software sometimes requires support, as does most software. When there are questions or difficulties that need to be resolved, it is the software support that your business will be consulting. The problem with some used POS systems is that support for the software may no longer exist. To run the system efficiently, you may have to purchase support or even a whole new software program. Doing so could cost you more than a new system.

Compatibility

Be sure to find out if all the POS components you are purchasing are compatible with each other, and whether anything extra will be needed for the system to operate. Individual components aren't worth much, if anything at all, without compatible components and software. Be sure to pay close attention to this detail, especially when choosing a used POS system.

Customization

The biggest benefit to a POS system is the ability to customize it to each company's needs. When considering a used system, be sure to examine how much customization is possible. Pay attention and make sure it is what your company is looking for. If the system cannot meet your company's needs, then it is not a wise choice. A POS system without all the desired features is usually a waste of money.

Upgrade and Management Options

As businesses grow and technology changes, upgrades will need to be made to the system. Be sure that the used options you are considering allow the ability to upgrade. If a system cannot be upgraded, it will not be good for your business. Software often requires upgrades to process data in the most current format.

*I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network

---