8 good reasons to use a cloud POS

A cloud POS system means security - and more freedom for you: but what does cloud-based actually mean and why does it perform so well in comparison with other methods? We explain what types of POS systems there are and break down the individual benefits of cloud POS.

Apart from different industry functions, there are two criteria for distinguishing electronic POS systems: 

The first criterion is based on whether or not hardware and software can be flexibly combined (open or closed systems). 
The second criterion relates to the software, which is updated and maintained either via hardware or via an external server (cloud).

Both criteria can be combined, whereby closed systems are generally hardware-based and open POS systems can use both hardware-based and cloud-based software.

Closed & open POS systems

Closed POS systems are the traditional variant: here, the software runs exclusively on a specific hardware; both are usually only sold together. In other words, existing laptops, smartphones or other devices cannot be connected to the system. A new purchase is therefore always necessary, but the hardware and software usually harmonize well with each other so that hardly any errors occur. Updates are carried out using compatible additional software, which must also be purchased separately and actively installed.

With open POS systems, hardware and software are independent of each other. In most cases, the software runs on Linux or Windows and therefore on various devices (PCs, smartphones, printers, etc.) with the same operating system. When purchasing, make sure that your existing hardware is compatible with the software: Check the list of supported devices. Updates are either hardware-based or cloud-based.

Hardware-based & cloud-based POS systems

Hardware-based means that the software and POS data are also stored on a fixed storage medium such as a USB stick.This may seem logical at first glance, but troubleshooting or updates can only be carried out on site by a technician with this configuration.The result: high costs and inconvenient service when required.

A cloud-based POS system such as ready2order works online, i.e. on a server in the network.Updates are applied automatically, quickly and comprehensively to all connected cash registers.So you are always up to date without any effort or extra costs.An additional plus: thanks to cloud storage, your data is not only secure.You also have access from anywhere and can work wherever you need your cash register - not just at work, but also on the move or in your home office. 

Cloud-based systems are also platform-independent: The software can therefore be installed on any compatible and internet-enabled PC, tablet or smartphone.

We have listed all the advantages of a cloud POS system for you in more detail below.

#1 Automatic updates

With a cloud-based cash register, you have a secure footing with the tax office - without having to worry about possible changes to the law. 

With a cloud-based system, updates are simply installed remotely by the cash register manufacturer: So you don't have to worry about a technician or manual maintenance work. This means you always work in compliance with the tax authorities without extra costs or additional effort.

Incidentally, you can also conveniently receive new features or updates from the manufacturer.

#2 Low acquisition and maintenance costs

Cloud-based POS systems are compatible with various devices: when purchasing, just make sure that the software is compatible with the operating system and model of your existing devices, i.e. that the two match. This way, you can turn your smartphone, tablet or laptop into a cash register and have no acquisition costs over and above the cost of the software license. 

You don't have to buy new hardware or pay a technician for updates either: as a POS provider, ready2order can provide fast support via remote access without anyone having to visit you.

#3 Expandable at will

You can expand your cloud POS system with compatible devices at any time. This means you can connect additional smartphones or tablets as POS devices at any time if you hire new employees or expand your business. You can also buy and connect additional hardware such as a card reader for card payment or a printer - just make sure that new purchases are compatible with your POS system in advance.

#4 Location-independent data access - when the tax office arrives

Your POS data is not stored separately, but centrally in the cloud - and can therefore be accessed from anywhere. In other words: if you work from different locations, sometimes from home or your employees are on the move with several POS devices, all data is securely collected online in one place.

This allows you to view all data and statistics at any time - from the office or remotely from the sofa in the evening. This makes your accounting flexible and you always have an overview of who is currently working, who is selling how much or which products are sold most frequently.

#5 Maximum data security

Data security is the top priority for cloud-based cash registers: after all, your sensitive cash register data must not be accessible to anyone other than yourself. With ready2order you are on the safe side here: We store your cash register data in a large data center in Germany. Why deliberately there? Data storage in Germany is subject to strict laws and regulations and thus enables the greatest possible security.

Overall, you benefit from the following advantages with the cloud-based system from ready2order:

Cloud data is protected against physical theft or misuse, unlike data on a medium (USB stick, etc.) 
Individually assignable employee authorizations protect against manipulation by third parties
Guaranteed protection against hacker attacks thanks to official security standards.
Everything is stored securely - even in the event of fire, flooding or other emergencies at your company.

#6 Product maintenance with just a few clicks

In outdated POS systems, it is sometimes the case that a technician has to be called to update all relevant POS devices for every price change and product range expansion - an unthinkably complicated process in our fast-paced world.  

With a modern cloud POS system, however, product maintenance is a matter of a few clicks. Whether it's a new product or a price update, all changes can be created individually directly in the software or uploaded collectively as a list via a CSV or Excel file. 

After the import, all changes are immediately and automatically visible in your POS - even on the POS devices that your employees may be using at the moment. 

#7 Reliable even without an Internet connection

If you travel a lot, you don't always have internet access: The ready2order POS software therefore also works reliably offline so that you can issue invoices to your customers at any time and book your business transactions in compliance with the law.

But even if you can work without the internet, we recommend connecting your cloud POS system to the internet as regularly as possible, as the tax office may become suspicious if you are offline too much.

#8 Hardware-independent, flexible and space-saving

As you decide for yourself which hardware you want to connect the cloud POS software to, you are very flexible when choosing the POS device. In a kiosk, a small-but-fine boutique or on a market stall, you don't have to squeeze a bulky POS terminal onto your small counter: Here, you can simply opt for a small iPad POS system or use your smartphone.

The same applies if you use a large checkout terminal in the store but want to use your laptop at home for your bookkeeping. Simply log in - and access all your data.