1. Choose Your Software First
Retailers often make the common mistake of purchasing all of their POS hardware, then seeking out software for their system. This is a backwards and COSTLY way to do things. Why?
POS software generally has it's own hardware requirements. If you purchase hardware first, then you could be limiting yourself to point of sale software that is available to only your system configuration.
Perhaps the best software suited for your industry has only been written for Windows machines, but you have already purchased a system that runs on Linux. Or maybe the software is not backwards compatible. All of these issues will come up if you choose hardware before you choos software.
2. Stick to on supplier/solution provider
Buying your hardware from the same provider that you purchased your software from is always the safest bet. The providers often have intimate knowledge of not just your software, but also your hardware. They know how to optimize your system for maximimum performance.
You will also find that you won't get caught in the "blame game". The "blame game" happens when something goes wrong with your system, the hardware provider will often blame it on the software, and vice versa. If you use the same company for both hardware and software, you will find yourself with much more reliable support.
3. Look for systems tailored to your industry
If a provider has experience within your business niche, they are often your best choice. The provider will have more understanding of your businesses needs and requirments. Often the provider will be able to provide customized solutions geared solidly at your line of business.
4. Recognizable Brand
Buying name brand is generally safer than going with no namers. Make sure your provider is using point of sale software with a proven track record, as well as reliable hardware known. Querying other businesses, consumer reports, and buyer's guides will often aid your research.
5. Pad your budget for variables
When recieving a quote for a company, make sure they include all of the other costs associated with the system. For instance, your barcode scanners, receipt paper, leasing information, etc. These costs can add up, and while Point of sale is always going to save you money in the long run, you want to make sure you aren't going to be nailed with hidden costs.
Source : POS Buying Guide
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