POS Solutions
Article | April 4, 2024
Explore a handpicked selection of the top 10 POS certifications and courses designed to empower retailers in simplifying payments management and mastering the art of seamless payment processing.
Businesses rely heavily on Point of Sale (POS) systems to manage payment transactions efficiently and securely in the current fast-paced digital era. As the dependency on electronic payments and payment management systems continues to increase, the importance of maintaining robust cybersecurity measures becomes increasingly evident. A breach in the payment management system can have catastrophic consequences, including compromised customer data, financial losses and reputational damage.
To bolster their defenses and optimize POS payment processing, retailers and their IT professionals can benefit significantly from acquiring POS certifications and undertaking relevant courses that specialize in securing payment transactions and solve payment problems. This article highlights the top 10 POS certifications and courses available, designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect payment infrastructures and streamline their operations.
Point of Sale System
The Point of Sale System is a comprehensive course designed for individuals with a basic knowledge of databases, catering to both aspiring and experienced retail professionals. The course assists participants in learning how to leverage sales data analysis and POS payment methods to optimize inventory management and adjust purchasing levels based on real-time sales trends. They will gain proficiency in monitoring daily cash flow, staff changes, and cash register adjustments, ensuring streamlined operations and accountability. Upon completion, participants will explore the potential for advanced integration with back-office stock control, ordering, and customer relationship management applications, thereby enabling a more sophisticated IT system for comprehensive retail management.
Create POS System - Inventory & sales with PHP 7 & adminLTE
Offered by Udemy, the Create POS System - Inventory & Sales with PHP 7 & AdminLTE course provides a practical and comprehensive learning experience for individuals seeking to build a point of sale system from the ground up using PHP 7. Through its step-by-step teaching approach, participants will gain the skills to design and develop an advanced payment management system under the Model-View-Controller (MVC) pattern. Participants will be equipped with the ability to create feature-rich web applications using PHP 7 and the AdminLTE template, catering to the requirements of companies aiming to manage their sales and inventory efficiently. This course not only enables participants to create a POS system that can be marketed to customers but also serves as a concrete foundation for developing other complex systems.
Integrate Payment in Xamarin Forms
Tailored for proficient C# programmers or individuals with a basic understanding of XAML, the Integrate Payment in Xamarin Forms course explains how to incorporate a payment gateway seamlessly into any Xamarin Forms application. This course focuses exclusively on Xamarin Forms and provides deeper guidance on setting up merchant and payment gateway accounts while integrating their respective SDKs effectively. Participants will gain practical insights into choosing the most suited payment gateway for their businesses and mobile applications. With access to free SDKs and hands-on learning, participants will be equipped with the expertise to create secure and efficient payment processes within their Xamarin Forms applications, catering to the demands of modern mobile commerce.
International Trade - Part 3: International Payment Systems
An extensive course, International Trade - Part 3: International Payment Systems, offers a detailed exploration of the complexities of international trade finance on a global scale. The course covers fundamental concepts, principles, practices, infrastructures, and current developments, providing participants with practical insights to navigate the complexities of international trade. It discloses valuable insights into the characteristics of international payments, identifies risks in correspondent banking, and explores the workings of essential systems such as the Clearing House Interbank Payment System (CHIPS) and Continuous Linked Settlement (CLS). After completion, the course will enable participants to understand the principles underpinning international payments, making them well-equipped to navigate global trade finance.
Point of Sale – A Complete Guide on POS Systems Course
One of the top POS certifications, Point of Sale – A Complete Guide on POS Systems, offers a detailed exploration of the dynamic and rapidly growing market of point of sale systems. This course equips professionals, entrepreneurs, and technology developers with the knowledge and tools to evaluate key features in selecting the right POS system. It also enables them to understand the significance of omnichannel experiences, gain a complete view of customers, and identify crucial factors contributing to the successful implementation of POS systems. Whether seeking to expand expertise or explore business opportunities, participants will accumulate crucial insights into the nuances of POS systems, enabling them to stay current with the latest industry developments.
Fintech Course on Digital Payment (Card and POS)
Created by Global Fintech Academia, the Fintech Course on Digital Payment (Card and POS) offers robust insights into evolving digital payments in the fintech industry. Participants will get a deep understanding of the card and POS business, enclosing crucial aspects such as card schemes, authentication factors, merchant discount rates, payment card industry data security standards, merchant category codes, payment processing, clearing, and settlement. The POS certification delves into the dynamics of payment processing in the realm of digital finance and digital banking, empowering participants with valuable insights into how payment companies, POS systems, and card schemes generate revenue. Whether aspiring to enter the fintech industry or aiming to enhance existing knowledge, this certification equips learners with a thorough understanding of the card and POS machine business.
Free Online Digital Payments Masterclass
Provided by the Centre for Finance, Technology and Entrepreneurship (CFTE), the Free Online Digital Payments Masterclass is an exhaustive course designed to provide participants with essential skills and knowledge to comprehend the ongoing modification in the payments industry. The masterclass, led by an industry expert at the forefront of fintech innovation, offers real-world applications of latest technologies and innovations in digital payments, empowering participants to become proficient in this dynamic field. It delves deeper into a 360-degree perspective on modern payment methods, improving participants' capability to grasp real-world applications. Through this course, participants will stay ahead of future trends and innovations.
Complete Guide for Aronium Point of Sale: Free & Best POS
The free online digital payments masterclass offers an extensive learning experience for individuals seeking to gain expertise in Aronium, a widely-used point of sale system employed in more than 40+ countries worldwide. The POS certification equips participants with the necessary skills to efficiently manage their daily operations and company transactions with precision and ease. The Aronium POS system provides a robust solution designed to meet the diverse requirements of small and medium businesses, offering powerful tools and functions to manage customers, suppliers, products, and inventory effectively. Participants will be coached through a step-by-step approach, starting from the basics to advanced topics, ensuring a complete understanding of Aronium's functionalities.
Introduction to Payment Dispute Resolution
An up-to-date course, The Introduction to Payment Dispute Resolution, provides a complete understanding of diverse dispute resolution methods, including Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and litigation approaches. Participants will gain extensive knowledge of payment chargebacks, including a robust list of reason codes and their implications. The course delves into the intricacies of the chargeback process between acquiring and issuing banks, as well as possible payment scheme involvement. Furthermore, learners will explore how Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) optimizes the resolution process through online communication. Unlike other dispute resolution courses, this certification stands out for its extensive coverage of the ODR framework, ADR approaches, dispute resolution in banking, and a detailed breakdown of effective resolution strategies.
FinTech - Digital Payments (Card & POS) Tools and Strategies
The FinTech - Digital Payments (Card & POS) Tools and Strategies certification offers a comprehensive exploration for individuals in the digital payment and fintech sector, providing insights into the back-end architecture of electronic payment collection systems. This course is beneficial for both established professionals within the domain and those entering it, offering a clear understanding of the intricate workings without delving into programming, technical integration, or bank account entries. Encompassing topics like card and POS machines, authentication factors, PCI DSS, MDR, MCC, card schemes, and payment processing, the certification provides a holistic view of the digital payments landscape. This certification serves as a comprehensive guide to the tools and strategies that drive the realm of digital payments, making it an essential resource for those navigating the evolving financial industry.
Bottom Line
Securing payment transactions and simplifying payment management is a crucial aspect of operating a successful and reputable retail business. By investing in the aforementioned top 10 POS certifications and courses, retailers can equip their IT professionals to navigate the complexities of POS security confidently. These POS certifications not only facilitate payment operations but also strengthen the overall cybersecurity framework, instilling trust and confidence in customers, partners, and stakeholders. As the risk of cyberattacks threats continue to grow and evolve, staying up-to-date with the latest certifications and training becomes critical for retailers to protect their operations and customers from potential harm.
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POS Solutions
Article | February 14, 2024
The coronavirus epidemic has so ravaged travel, live entertainment and physical retail that companies across those industries have frozen their marketing, causing ad prices to plunge. Meanwhile, online beauty brand Insert Name Here is generating so much business that it’s snapping up ad space at a discount. Based in Los Angeles, Insert Name Here sells hair extensions and wigs, which are in high demand now that women are unable to visit their hairstylists. To reach all those consumers who are stuck at home, Insert Name Here is working with social media influencers to create do-it-yourself styling videos for Instagram as well as Facebook, Tik Tok, Snapchat and YouTube.
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POS Solutions
Article | February 15, 2024
How much does it cost to install a point of sale (POS) system?
It’s a question that we get all the time and the answer might surprise you.
If you’re trying to grow a retail small business, you probably don’t have all the money and resources in the world to commit to an expensive retail POS system.
Moreover, finding the best retail POS system for your growing small business is easier said than done, especially if you don’t know what features to prioritize in your search.
So, what’s the good news? Finding the right POS system for your business is as easy as 1-2-3 and installing a POS system is actually quite affordable!
How Much Does it Cost to Install a POS System?
The short answer: it depends and varies by POS type and by vendor. We've seen POS installation costs range from $0-$700. Installation costs come on top of the upfront hardware costs (up to $1,600), monthly software fees (anywhere from $9-299 per month) and payment processing fees.
When it's all said and done, your total cost of ownership for year one can range from $1,200-$6,500. Controlling POS installation costs is key in minimizing first-year total ownership cost.
There are two types of costs to consider related to installing a POS system: time costs and financial costs. The most significant delays come when the POS system isn’t pre-configured for your unique business. In this scenario, you may spend a considerable amount of time aligning the system with your sales processes.
Additionally, if your inventory management, employee payroll, and other tools are built inside separate programs, you may need to spend time integrating and combing these systems, thus increasing POS installation costs.
Finally, if the provider doesn’t offer online software guides or tutorials, you may spend your time figuring out features and functionality on your own. Without these helpful resources, you’ll spend a considerable amount of time fumbling through the system. No one has time for that!
These time costs tie directly into financial costs. Instead of spending time installing a POS system yourself, you could be spending that time ringing in sales!
Here are some of the other things that influence POS system installation costs.
Number of Stations
If your POS system isn’t pre-configured so that you can “plug and play,” you’re most likely going to require an on-site technician to install your POS. Often, the total number of stations influences total installation cost. The more stations you have, the more time the technician has to spend installing them, and the higher your installation costs will be.
Type of Software/Hardware
This is another downfall of not purchasing an all-in-one retail POS system that comes pre-configured. Some software and hardware come with additional installation costs because they require more time for your on-site technician to complete.
These costs can also be looked at from the type of POS system you purchase: on-site, cloud-based, or hybrid.
On-site POS systems typically take the most effort to install, meaning a higher financial cost. Cloud-based and hybrid POS systems are easier to install, but installation time is dictated by whether the software and hardware is pre-configured or not.
Advanced Features
Many advanced POS system features may require additional time and additional cost for a technician to install.
iPads or other mobile devices for staff to use when serving customers
Handheld scanners for inventory
Payment hardware and their corresponding security systems or software
Data or product migrations from your previous POS system
Number of Users
Certain POS providers price their system based on the number of users. This can also affect install costs. If you require an on-site technician and/or you don’t have access to a tutorial for adding users to the system, the technician will most likely have to do that for you. Again, this means more time spent installing your POS system, increasing the total installation cost.
Training
Some POS providers will wrap POS system training into installation costs. This will require an investment of time from key stakeholders, including management and employees.
Some POS providers will also charge you for additional training outside of the initial training session. If they don’t have online training resources, this means every new employee will either need to be trained by the provider (costing you money) or trained by you or another staff member (costing you time).
POS Nation Reduces the Cost of Installing a POS System
With a POS Nationall-in-one retail POS system, setting up your hardware is easier than you’d think. The benefit of purchasing a full point of sale system from us is that it’s a plug-and-play solution. Take it out of the box, plug everything in, and it’s ready to go! Our team of technicians pre-configures your hardware so you don't have to worry about any installations when it arrives. Most of our advanced features are baked right into the software. There are some that cost extra, but most are pre-installed, making us a more powerful and affordable solution.
Additionally, you are assigned a customer success manager. Their goal is to help you get up and running as quickly and smoothly as possible. They will schedule a hardware setup appointment with you. During this call, they will assist you with:
Remote hardware setup
Hardware testing
A test transaction on the pinpad
Any basic training they can cover during the appointment time
They will book as many training sessions as you need to solidify your understanding of the software and its many functionalities.
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Cloud Based POS
Article | September 7, 2023
Delve into top POS providers and their comprehensive offerings. Discover how these robust payment solutions collectively shape the trajectory of payment experiences and customer satisfaction.
An extensive Point-of-Sale (POS) solution is essential in the current business environment. These solutions seamlessly integrate sales, inventory, and consumer data, enhancing overall operational efficiency. With streamlined transactions, accurate inventory management, and extensive sales analytics, businesses are able to make informed decisions, optimize resource allocation, and improve customer experiences. A robust POS solution exceeds transaction processing to become a strategic tool that enables businesses to navigate complexity and flourish in an increasingly competitive market.
Thus, adopting a POS payment solution from reliable and recognized companies is crucial for businesses. From secure transaction processing to real-time inventory tracking and insightful sales analysis, a dependable POS solution provider equips businesses with the tools to enhance efficiency, optimize decision-making, and elevate overall customer experiences.
Here are some of the leading POS solution providers:
Toast
Toast is a transformative force in the hospitality industry, empowering businesses of all sizes to cultivate exceptional teams, increase revenue streams, maximize operational efficiency, and captivate customers. The company offers an exhaustive platform encompassing point-of-sale, visitor marketing, digital ordering and delivery, payroll and HR functions, as well as restaurant-grade hardware by combining profound insight into the culinary space with innovative cloud software and restaurant-grade hardware. Toast redefines the contours of restaurant administration with its sophisticated technological suite as part of its unwavering dedication to enhancing dining experience.
Lightspeed
Lightspeed Commerce is a cornerstone for the organizations that constitute the core of the worldwide economy. It enables merchants to drive innovation, expedite operations, and deliver unparalleled customer experiences by providing a comprehensive commerce platform. The company's cloud-based solution integrates and harmonizes both physical and online operations, from facilitating multi-channel sales to ensuring efficient global payments and providing financing options. Lightspeed's solution is a strategic enabler for businesses pursuing growth, efficiency, and superior customer engagement when navigating the complex terrain of commerce.
TouchBistro
TouchBistro has established itself as a key participant in the hospitality industry by providing an integrated platform that combines front-of-house, back-of-house, and guest engagement solutions. The company assists restaurant owners in optimizing and streamlining their operations by leveraging its powerful combination, thereby reducing the need for manual tasks and augmenting the focus on customer interactions and business expansion. This advanced solution redefines operational efficiency in the restaurant industry, reinforcing TouchBistro's dedication to facilitating seamless connectivity and nurturing sustained growth for its clients.
Clover
A subsidiary of Fiserv, Clover Network Inc. is at the forefront of innovation with its complete, open-architecture point-of-sale system designed to meet the needs of small and medium-sized business owners. As an influential force, the company's products redefine the consumer-merchant engagement dynamics and pave the way for frictionless interactions. Through Clover, Fiserv embarks on a mission to establish a leading operating system, bringing in a new era of commerce-enabling applications and solutions designed to empower business owners in a variety of industries.
Revel Systems
Revel Systems serves as a catalyst for the goals of retailers and restaurants by providing a cloud-based POS and business management system. Engineered for optimal security, user-friendliness, stability, and service excellence, Revel's ecosystem surpasses obsolete legacy solutions by offering an iOS-based POS platform that combines cloud-based innovation with the mobility of the iPad. This transformative strategy positions Revel Systems as the centerpiece for businesses seeking to modernize operations and enhance consumer experiences in a dynamic market.
Talech Point of Sale
Talech Point of Sale emerges as the preeminent solution, providing merchants with practical and user-friendly POS software solution that is enriched with holistic analytics and deep insights. Talech is steadfast in its mission for empowering small and medium-sized businesses to improve operational efficiency and accelerate sales growth in a fiercely competitive environment. Talech intends to provide local companies with insights comparable to those available to large-scale retailers and sizeable online commerce platforms, thereby leveling the playing field for all parties.
Lavu Inc.
Founded on the visionary principle of utilizing technology to design products, Lavu Inc., assists in enhancing the customer experiences by providing POS system for small business owners. The company's cloud-based iPad point-of-sale system integrates the extensive functionality of traditional systems with built-in customization and adaptability powered by cutting-edge technology. This convergence positions Lavu Inc. as a dependable partner for small businesses attempting to navigate the complexities of commerce with innovation and efficiency in the lead.
LevelUp
LevelUp is a pioneering force in the creation of cutting-edge mobile experiences for over 200 national brands. Its mission is to equip businesses with the tools needed to cultivate meaningful customer relationships, accelerate sales growth, and develop a robust, scalable mobile strategy. The company's platform offers a flexible suite of customized functionalities, including mobile rewards, seamless native online ordering, secure payments, dynamic customer relationship management, and a variety of other features. LevelUp's unwavering dedication to innovation positions itself at the forefront of enabling businesses to cultivate long-lasting consumer relationships.
MenuSifu
Menusifu Inc., based in New York City, was founded in 2013 by a group of ambitious and inventive high-tech engineers to introduce next-gen restaurant POS software solution. The MenuSifu POS terminal, MenuSifu mobile apps, and MenuSifu's online order system designed for iPad, iPad mini, and iPhone have helped the company achieve prominence in a remarkably brief period of time. By balancing innovation and cost-effectiveness, Menusifu Inc. has emerged as a significant contributor in the ever-evolving sphere of restaurant technology, offering businesses comprehensive solutions to improve operational efficiency and cultivate dynamic customer engagement.
Trivec
Trivec is a renowned provider of restaurant-specific POS systems in the European hospitality market. Its extensive POS solutions are designed to improve the ordering and payment processes of restaurants, bars, and hotels. Trivec's portfolio comprises traditional POS systems, QR-based solutions, card payment terminals, mobile POS solutions, handheld devices, and beverage systems, among other products. Through its dedication to innovation and seamless integration, Trivec delivers a transformative suite of hospitality solutions that expedite operations and enhance customer experiences.
eHopper
eHopper is a global provider of user-friendly management systems committed to empowering small enterprises worldwide. With a devotion to enhancing seamless interactions and facilitating operational efficiency with customers and clients, eHopper offers wide-ranging solutions, including POS hardware, mobile POS, inventory management solutions, POS software solution, and others, tailored to the particular requirements of small businesses. By effectively addressing the operational landscape, eHopper intends to substantially lower operating costs, thereby fostering increased profitability for small businesses attempting to thrive in the modern competitive market.
Heartland
A division of Global Payments Inc., Heartland is a market leader in the field of payment processing across the US. It offers a range of services, including debit, credit, and prepaid card processing, powered by its cutting-edge security technology, Heartland SecureTM, and a robust breach warranty. Furthermore, Heartland provides point-of-sale systems, e-commerce platforms, mobile commerce solutions, payroll solutions, marketing tools, and various additional business services. The company plays a pivotal role in influencing modern business transactions and services, with a reach of over 400,000 business and educational locations across the country.
Mad Mobile
Mad Mobile is an internationally recognized technology company famous for its exceptional and scalable restaurant and retail solutions. The company specializes in redefining consumer engagement and enables businesses to transform their interactions with customers. Their one-of-a-kind platform enables the seamless incorporation of mobility into existing systems, thereby boosting sales performance and digitizing the passenger experience. As a leader in technology-driven solutions, Mad Mobile is at the leading edge of propelling innovative mobile experiences in the business environment.
ItsaCheckmate
ItsaCheckmate is a notable provider of an all-encompassing two-way integration solution that connects point-of-sale systems to the dynamic realm of on-demand services. This integration not only ensures a seamless transition to the evolving on-demand world but also equips businesses with robust monitoring and reporting capabilities, thereby optimizing profitability, revenue, and operational efficiency. ItsaCheckmate has partnerships with over 150 point-of-sale systems and third-party marketplaces, including industry leaders like DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, ASAP, EZcater, and ChowNow. ItsaCheckmate is committed to democratizing technology, thereby making it accessible and cost-effective for restaurants of all sizes.
KwicKPOS
KwicKPOS has emerged as one of the leading full-featured POS providers for restaurant management. The company exceeds hardware limitations by integrating diverse clientele requirements onto a unified platform, displaying the qualities of intelligence, fluidity, and efficiency. KwicKPOS revolutionizes the course of restaurant operations by providing a broad range of features, including POS, kiosk systems, online ordering, CRM, Kitchen Display Systems (KDS), marketing tools, delivery services, and cloud-enabled features. This robust solution improves administration and increases profitability, making it an indispensable asset for enhancing restaurant performance.
Bottom Line
In the vast tapestry of contemporary commerce, the function of cloud POS systems extends beyond the mere facilitation of transactions. These top 15 POS solution providers collectively aim to enhance payment experiences, leveraging their individual strengths. By entrusting their payment requirements to these POS solution providers, companies can emphasize their core operations, secure in the knowledge that their technological foundation can adapt and expand alongside the business. As businesses navigate an ever-changing environment, the profound impact of these providers becomes apparent; an integration of technology, competence in business, and consumer-centricity that collectively alters the trajectory of commerce itself.
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