Introduction-
If you’re shopping for the best restaurant POS system, you’ll have to choose between cloud-based and traditional methods. Purchasing a foodservice POS system is a significant purchase and one that must not be undertaken without thorough research into the various choices. Knowing the difference between a cloud-based POS and an older POS can be a great way to begin.
Cloud-Based POS Defined-
Also known as a Web POS, all the data you require is stored on the internet, and it’s held in the cloud and stored in a secure data center.
You can access your data from any location and on any device with Internet access (similar to checking your bank account information or email on your phone and tablet).
Manage your store from your home and access all the information you need to know about, including inventory, sales reports, and trends in customer behaviour, all in one location, all in real-time.
Traditional POS Defined-
Also known as an on-premises or a legacy POS, the traditional restaurant billing software has been in use longer and provides the ability to store data for business owners. Since conventional POS systems are connected to an on premise, local server, the data is saved on a computer in your business’s back office.
Typically when you use a local database, unless the solution is cloud-based, that requires you to be physically present and connected to the store computer(s) to be able to access your information (similar to the storage of files on your desktop, which can only be viewed from only one location).
If you’re using a hybrid system that includes cloud-based capabilities, your data remains on your primary system; however, you can access your software’s back-office anytime.
What is the difference between the Cloud-Based POS and traditional POS?
POS system access to data and management-
Traditional-
If you’re using an old-fashioned POS system, you can access your information at the location where it’s established, i.e., the store.
Because this kind of system is based on closed, local server networks and servers, it is impossible to access your data through multiple devices. It is necessary to be present at the site where the data is kept for access to and manage your data.
Cloud-based-
With a cloud-based POS system, your information is saved online.
It is possible to manage it anywhere you go; all you require is an online device, such as your smartphone, and an Internet connection. No matter how far you are from the store, you can manage your data in real-time.
If you lose your internet connection while operating your business, don’t worry! Your business will continue to use just as usual, and the data will be synced when there is an Internet connection.
POS system hardware cost
Traditional
Most traditional POS systems require large initial payments. Since the software must be upgraded on-site to maintain it, it is necessary to pay an ongoing cost, which means more labour and time. If the system breaks down, the re-installation cost is very high.
Cloud-based
Setting up a cloud-based POS isn’t as complicated; therefore, it’s less expensive. It typically has a small upfront cost; however, it is a model subscription with a monthly or annual fee. If you’re a small-sized business owner like you, the idea might appear sensible, and it’s not necessary to pay an enormous amount of money initially.
POS system features-
Traditional
It’s a bit difficult to customize the traditional POS system. In the majority of cases, businesses must make use of the hardware and software to the extent that they can. The system is yours to work with rather than let use it. This is a problem for various types of business owners that have to satisfy different types of requirements.
Cloud-based
Utilizing an online POS system, it’s possible to customize and personalize the program’s features to align with your company’s requirements. For instance, if, example, you operate an F&B shop, you could:
Design a table layout of your preferences with StoreHub’s Backoffice. StoreHub Backoffice.
Set your warning stock levels to remind you that you’ll need to purchase more.
Monitor employee attendance and working hours by observing their clock-ins and outs with their unique ID number for employees.
Create personalized graphs to determine which foods are the most sought-after and at what time. Automatically summarize the daily, monthly, and annual sales.
Software-
In conventional inventory management software, software updates can be lengthier and usually require your vendor’s assistance.
The advantage is that unlike cloud POS the traditional POS doesn’t depend on the internet, which means it can access all your information offline. If the internet is down, it is possible to continue making sales using local databases for your point of sale software.
Another benefit is that the traditional POS software is usually only a one-time expense.
Cloud POS requires an ongoing internet connection for operation; however, the software is regularly updated. The service provider will install updates regularly and remotely, typically at night, to prevent interruptions to your business.
Most cloud POS software has an annual subscription fee which is different from the cost per month of conventional POS software.
Yearly Price-
Traditional POS
Software and hardware typically are paid for up upfront; however, some companies provide a month-to-month payment choice for the software. You can, most of the time, choose between the software, hardware, and payment processing to build an individual solution. Updates to hardware and software are an additional expense.
Cloud Point of Sale
Hardware is usually purchased upfront, and software is paid monthly via an ongoing subscription. It is possible to access the software via various mobile devices, and updates are generally included in the monthly fee for your subscription.
Maintenance-
Traditional POS
Maintenance may include technicians visiting your site to perform upgrades or providing remote assistance. It is possible to experience interruptions in business, and there is no guarantee that the problem will be addressed immediately if there are any issues.
Cloud POS
Maintenance is performed online and is automated with upgrades for the application. The real-time updates will ensure your system is in compliance and safe. If you experience a blackout of the internet, it is possible to delay or stop updates, and you’ll need to contact your service provider to address any problems.
POS system hardware design-
Traditional
Many traditional POS systems are massive, heavy, and heavy, consuming a lot of wasted space on the counter. This can be a plus for business owners since they’re not simple to transport in the event of theft.
Cloud-based
Internet-based POS devices are mobile, often as simple as tablets and even smartphones! They are portable and can be carried everywhere you travel. They weigh less than a tenth of conventional POS and tend to be minimal in style.
Conclusion-
It is a good idea to consider using a Cloud POS system if you are searching for a new restaurant POS. But, going to purchase the cloud POS is an investment of a substantial amount. It is essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of traditional and cloud-based restaurant POS before making an informed decision.
