One of the things that makes our clients most nervous about upgrading their point of sale (POS) is the idea that their business will experience extended downtime. Most have heard horror stories of bugs, glitches and other technical difficulties that have caused setbacks or chaos and are understandably a little apprehensive about making the change.
The good news is, upgrading your POS doesn’t need to disrupt your business—in fact, with the right solution and provider, it’s possible for the changeover process to be smooth, speedy and have minimal impact.
Sounds too good to be true? We’ve done it for our clients many times before. Read on to find out how.
Data conversion expertly handled
Converting all your data accurately across from your old system to the new is critical to the success of your handover. This task is definitely best completed by a POS supplier with proven experience pulling across products, pricing, customer details and all the other critical data your business needs to access to operate. When this task is expertly handled without a hitch, it eliminates the need for manual re-entry, meaning your new system will be ready to roll on day one.
Choose your provider wisely
When comparing your software provider options, be sure to take into consideration their reputation for delivering a working system on day one. Also enquire about how they plan to project manage the process as the new system is implemented and beyond, and their method for communicating with you to keep you in the loop at all times. A good place to source this information is to see what past and current clients are saying via reviews, both on their website and on Google.
Direct access to assistance is a must
When it comes to day one, you need direct access to an expert to address any hiccups as they arise, and to promptly answer the many inevitable questions you have about how to complete different functions and find certain features in your brand new system. It’s also important to think about weekends, in particular, your first weekend operating under the new system. Some POS providers do not offer support on weekends, yet this is often when you need it the most, due to increased patronage and sometimes less experienced staff. Be sure your provider offers support when you need it, not when it’s convenient for them. To be clear, there is a massive difference between having a local project manager ready and available to answer your call and remotely assist you, and having a phone number or email address for support that’s located in a different time zone. If you do forget something from training or anything is not working as expected, you want fast answers to your questions. The last thing you need is to be stuck on hold, or be typing emails explaining who you are and what is happening.
Make the most of pre-install training
If you’re operating a busy retail store it can be challenging to find the time to get you and your team together for pre-installation training. However, it is a really important aspect of a successful changeover, so make it a priority. For the best results, complete the training as a group with your whole team present. This allows you to get the most out of it, as everyone will have the chance to ask questions, make suggestions and discuss any concerns. You will 100% benefit from even a little time invested in training once your system is live.
Look to a brighter future
Some staff, particularly those that have been at the company for long periods of time, may feel a little uneasy about switching to a new system. Change can be scary, so it’s important to be open and honest about why the change is being made and the difference it will make to the business. Paint a clear vision of a better future, where there are less errors, less manual work and more time available to spend with customers. Once the system is up and running this will be apparent, but make sure during the lead up and initial stages that the message to staff is clear: the new POS is for the good of the business and will make everyone’s life easier.
With the right partner, it’s smooth sailing
While it’s normal to be nervous about a big change such as upgrading your POS, when you partner with a trusted provider who is there to help you at every step of the way, you can feel confident and excited about what’s to come. When you’re supported throughout the transition it will go smoothly, and downtime won’t be an issue—and it won’t be long before you and your team are wondering how you managed to get anything done before your new system arrived!
If you’d like to find out about your POS options, get in touch with our Melbourne-based team for a no-obligation to chat to find out how we can help.
