Which EPoS System Is For You?
Any business that sells products to customers can make use of an EPoS system. The size of EPoS system that you get will depend on how big the business is, a very small organisation may not need a complete system.
Stand-alone EPoS systems
For a stand-alone PC you will be looking to spend about £5000. For your money you get a specialised EPoS terminal, software, a printer and a networked back office PC. Solutions like this often have XML or EDI links for connecting with your website or back-office systems, making it easy for online businesses to connect with their physical stores. For businesses with more than one store this would be an advantage.
Software-based solutions
If you can use your own PC to bolt EPoS software onto it, then you should only be looking at a cost of £350. If you need additional software, a credit card reader, cash drawer etc then you can get these as a plug in.
EPoS and Accounting Software
The average cost for these systems is around £500 per terminal. If you need to boost your back office system you can also add on electronic funds transfer software and label printing for example. This can be a cheaper and more flexible way to buying EPoS software although your supplier will need to consult you on all of the modules and extras you will require.
Contract out EPoS to a third party specialist
This concept is relatively new in the UK. An Application Service Provider (ASP) will rent specialised software to you and provide a secure, internet-based link to your system as well as managing your system. Any technical problems that you come across will be solved by the ASP. You will need to have a secure broadband connection to run EPoS this way.
Customised EPoS Technology
If you have hardware or software for your business already then a software expert can design a system and integrate it with the rest of your technology and website. This will cost you over £10,000, however when shopping around you will be able to find a range of prices depending on supplier. For very large corporations like hotel chains and national shops, this is the best EPoS system.
