How to Recommend the Ideal Restaurant POS System

Within the restaurant industry, the Point-of-Sale (POS) system functions as the nerve center of the entire business on a daily basis. It integrates essential aspects of restaurant management, from transactions and inventory tracking to coordinating kitchen operations and customer loyalty programs.

As a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) or POS Dealer, you play a pivotal role in helping restaurateurs find the POS system that best fits their specific needs. This task quickly becomes complex and challenging due to the sheer variety of options available. However, when you thoroughly understand the key features and aspects to consider when recommending a restaurant POS system, you can build your business on the loyalty and trust of your customers.

Whether you are a VAR new to the industry or a seasoned professional aiming to update your knowledge, this guide for recommending the ideal restaurant POS system will serve as a valuable resource to support your mission. You will be well-equipped to provide your clients with a POS system that contributes significantly to their success in a fiercely competitive market.

Understanding the Unique Needs of Each Restaurant

Size & Type of Restaurant

The first step is to thoroughly understand the unique requirements of the restaurant based on its size and type. A cozy neighborhood café will require a vastly different system than a high-volume fine-dining restaurant or a quick-service chain. The scale of operations and the style of service they offer will inform the complexity and functionality needed in a POS system.

Number of Employees

The number of staff members can also influence the kind of POS system required. Larger teams may need a system with more advanced features such as shift scheduling, employee performance metrics, payroll integration, and task assignment. For smaller teams, a more straightforward system might suffice.

Desired Features

It’s crucial to ascertain what features are most desired by your client. Key functionalities include menu and inventory management, table tracking, online ordering, and delivery integration. Furthermore, features like customer loyalty programs, customizable reports, and advanced analytics offer valuable insights for strategic decision-making.

Evaluating POS Systems Based on Key Parameters

With a clear understanding of the restaurant’s needs, it’s time to turn your attention to evaluating the available POS systems in the market. Here are a few factors to consider: 

Ease of Use

A POS system should be user-friendly and intuitive irrespective of its advanced features. A system that’s easy to use can improve staff efficiency and productivity, reduce training time, and minimize errors during service. Look for one with clear, easy-to-navigate interfaces and simplified processes.

Reliability

A reliable POS system with a track record of minimal downtime can save restaurants from lost sales and customer dissatisfaction. Consider those offering offline capabilities to ensure the restaurant can still operate even if the internet connection fails.

Scalability

The chosen POS system should be able to grow and adapt to the changing needs of the restaurant. Adding new features or scaling up should be seamless as the establishment expands or diversifies.

Customer Support

Evaluate the level of customer support provided by the POS vendor. Comprehensive training, round-the-clock support, online resources, and a responsive team are vital to ensuring smooth operations and swift resolution of any issues that might arise.

Cost

While it may be tempting to recommend a cheaper or cloud-based system, weighing the cost against the value is essential.

A low-cost or cloud-based system may become more expensive in the long run if it lacks necessary features, requires frequent upkeep, or fails to offer reliable support. Consider both the upfront price for hardware and software, as well as the ongoing expenses for updates, maintenance, and assistance.

Total Touch is Your Ideal Restaurant POS

Guiding your clients toward the right restaurant POS system is a multi-faceted process, requiring a deep understanding of their unique needs and careful evaluation of various options. As a VAR, you’re not just selling a product but providing a restaurant management solution that could significantly influence your client’s business success.

At Total Touch, we understand the position of VARs and aim to make the process as easy as possible for you to grow your business.