POS system runs on any hardware, inexpensively

"Complete integration means the ability to accurately and automatically gain an instant view of the goods on hand, sales performance and stock holding, whether in a single store or across multiple sites," he notes.

However, most retailers, especially smaller operators or independent outlets, tend to operate with isolated, disconnected POS systems, which have no connection to goods receiving, warehousing or the general ledger.

"That's something which the company is changing, with a complete system designed to run on inexpensive, standard hardware that creates a connected solution for managing every aspect of the store."

It is these points, integration and affordability, which make this system a viable option. "Additionally, for those companies which have several outlets, the system provides equal performance whether it is online or offline; it does not depend on the network or connectivity to the back-end server which characterize multi-site operations, to function. That means should any interruption to connectivity occur, every outlet continues working as usual; when connectivity is restored or a server crash rectified, the system synchronises itself."

Coming back to complete integration with back end systems, he says this helps alleviate the challenge of finding skilled personnel. "It is necessary to complement good managerial staff with the support of automated systems which introduce best practices which make it easier to run an efficient business. Live data means the ability to know what is happening in store or across a group of stores, directly feeding into stock management, replenishment and providing for a more lean supply chain with optimized stock holding patterns." It also means opening up the possibilities for growth, since standard processes across multiple sites supports effective management of the enterprise.

The system can provide for 8-10 users at the point of sale with an investment of as little as R 5000-8000 in hardware. "It runs on almost any hardware even that considered obsolete and on any operating system, whether Linux, Mac OS or Windows, without the requirement for any additional software. That is by design; a fast, integrated POS solution that does not require expensive hardware."

While it is an extension of the company's ERP solution, which is suitable for companies, which range from under ten users all the way through businesses with hundreds of users, he says the POS system can also run as a standalone solution. "It is a flexible and affordable solution, which brings advanced functionality to retailers, helping you to run a more efficient, more profitable business without requiring a substantial investment in hardware and software," he concludes.