Tablet devices are no longer just luxury toys for affluent consumers – they have real value for businesses, particularly retailers. When used in conjunction with specific hardware, they can be converted into mobile point-of-sale (POS) terminals for a fraction of the cost of traditional systems. Moreover, they are tremendously more flexible – a tablet can be carried anywhere, whether it's the front of a store or a sporting event, enabling merchants to conduct transactions regardless of location.<\/p>\n
That said, Software Advice recently offered some suggestions for brands looking to use tablets as POS devices. The blog spoke with several small-time merchants who recently began using the devices to determine the best way of incorporating them into store operations.<\/p>\n
1. Don't go all out<\/strong><\/p>\n Tablets are inexpensive, but that doesn't mean retailers should go and purchase a dozen for use in the store. Traditional point-of-sale systems still have a number of notable benefits, and tablets do have some drawbacks as well. Not to mention the fact that this could add up and that tablets tend to have a short lifespan compared to other POS solutions.<\/p>\n 2. Outsource setup<\/strong><\/p>\n Using tablets as retail POS terminals may be a foreign concept to many merchants. When deploying these devices, then, it may be a better idea to hire someone more familiar or experienced with integration.<\/p>\n "My time is limited. It was helpful to have an expert set everything up," Stacey Barnes, cofounder of toffee shop GoodyTwos, told Software Advice.<\/p>\n "A reseller can focus on migrating data, setting-up merchant services accounts, and ensuring the deployment goes smoothly. Resellers can also help with integration of previous systems," the news source added.<\/p>\n 3. Get people involved<\/strong><\/p>\n Among retailers, using tablets for checkout purposes is a new concept, but among consumers, it's practically unheard of. As a result, merchants may be able to impress shoppers with their cutting-edge mobile POS systems. The news source suggests getting people involved with the checkout process using the tablets – have them sign receipts using the touch screen or let them finish the transaction by hitting the final confirmation button. It's all about crafting a new consumer experience.<\/p>\n Recent data from RIS News highlights the growing prominence of tablets at retail – approximately 28 percent of merchants are currently using these devices.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Tablet devices are no longer just luxury toys for affluent consumers – they have real value for businesses, particularly retailers. Continue reading