Every day you begin analyzing your business finances, it’s the same old story – Manual data entries, cyber security concerns, and lack of customer management features. During times like these, you wish someone would build a custom POS system for your business.
And why not?
The POS (point-of-sale) terminal market is booming and has high potential, especially in the US. In fact, experts predict that the valuation of this sector may reach USD 41 billion by 2029. A huge number to get your attention, right?
In simple words, with a robust POS system, you can unearth an array of advantages to unleash efficiency, integrate loyalty programs, and build a happy customer base.
Long story short, you need to build a custom POS system. This blog will explain all the crucial parameters that can prove useful when you embark on this vital decision.
Well, investing in a custom POS system is one of the most valuable choices. Let us explain how:
Off-the-shelf POS systems have a one-size-fits-all approach. On the other hand, a custom system can suit your unique workflows, eliminating bottlenecks and streamlining operations for significant time and cost savings
A custom POS system can integrate loyalty programs, targeted promotions, or self-service options. So, you can keep customers happy and satisfied
Such a customized system can capture and analyze data specific to your operations, providing actionable insights to optimize inventory, marketing, and staffing
Custom POS systems can have robust security features designed for your specific needs
Overall, you need a custom POS to give you a significant edge over the ever-growing competition.
Want a personalized discussion on developing your own custom POS? Schedule a call now!
Popular Industries Benefiting From a Custom POS System
A custom POS system can be a transformative investment. If your business falls into any of the sectors mentioned below, it’s a good time to consider developing one.
Remember, a custom POS system is an investment. By carefully considering your unique needs and workflows, you can unlock a powerful tool that drives efficiency, enhances the customer experience, and gives you an edge in your domain.
How Does a Custom POS System Work?
The word ‘custom’ conveys a lot about these POS systems.
They are tailor-made platforms that suit your unique business requirements. But how do they achieve this aspect? Read below to understand their functionality.
It Builds on its Core Functions
A custom POS system focuses on sales processing. Here are the activities that fall under this segment:
Addition of financial items
Calculation of taxes and discounts
Finalization of payments
However, custom POS goes beyond basic stock tracking. It handles complex inventory structures, real-time multi-location updates, low-stock alerts, and reorder suggestions tailored to your buying patterns.
In addition, these systems enable you to store customer information, purchase history, and preferences. This way, you can plan targeted promotions, integrate loyalty programs, and offer a personalized shopping experience.
It Fits Your Business Requirements
A custom POS system can perform the following activities or tasks:
Industry-Specific Features: For example, a restaurant POS can include table management, kitchen order routing, or self-service kiosk functionalities
Workflow Enhancements: Tasks like automatic invoicing for professional services or combo meal builders for quick-serve restaurants are apt examples
Data Analytics: A custom POS system can provide reports on product popularity, peak sales hours, or staff performance
Overall, you can develop such point-of-sales systems according to your company’s needs and budget.
It Leverages Various Technical Components
The technical build of a custom POS varies depending on your needs. So, what should you know? Here are the main points:
Your system can work seamlessly with your existing hardware (scanners, receipt printers, etc.) or integrate with new equipment
Developers can create the POS software based on your requirements, ensuring it aligns with your business processes and workflows
Overall, custom POS systems have robust security measures to protect sensitive customer data and financial information.
Already have a team but lacking some skilled resources? Then IT staff augmentation can work for you. To understand this model, click here.
It Supports Multi-channel Deployment
One significant advantage of investing in a custom POS system is flexibility. With the right development team, you can deploy it on two vital channels, allowing you to choose the deployment method that’s apt for your business needs.
The following table will offer a quick explanation of the same.
Type of Deployment
Explanation
On-premise
The POS software is installed on your local hardware, providing full control but requiring maintenance and IT support on your end
Cloud-based
You can host the system on a remote server for greater flexibility and accessibility from anywhere with an internet connection
A custom POS system is a valuable tool to meet your business needs. By understanding its core functions, customization potential, and technical considerations, you can make the perfect decision about its execution.
Main Components of POS Systems
Even if you decide to build a custom POS system, the basics remain the same. Developers will utilize an appropriate blend of hardware and software to create your tailor-made solution.
So, as a decision-maker, you should be aware of these components.
1. Hardware
In simple words, hardware is the physical component you can see and touch. A basic POS system can have:
POS Terminal
Cash Drawer
Receipt Printer
Barcode Scanner
Customer Display
Credit Card Reader
In addition, you can demand other peripherals like a keyboard, mouse, or weight scale.
2. Software
This component is the invisible force that powers the custom POS system. The software handles all the essential functions as follows:
Sales Processing
Inventory Management
Customer Management
Reporting & Analytics
Due to the customization aspect, you can also inform your development team to build features for employee management, gift cards, loyalty program management, and more.
The specific hardware and software components will vary depending on the type of POS system (cloud-based, mobile, etc.) and your business’s needs.
Features to Look for in a Custom POS System
When considering a custom POS system, there are core features to prioritize alongside the exciting customization possibilities.
Here’s a quick breakdown of such essential features:
Ideal Features of a Custom POS System
Name of the Feature
Functionalities
Sales Processing
Flawless processing of transactions, including adding items, handling taxes and discounts, and accepting various payment methods
When making this decision, the following points should be on your agenda:
Scalability: Choose a system that can expand or grow with your business. A custom POS system should be adaptable to accommodate future needs
Ease of Use: The system should be user-friendly for both employees and, if applicable, customers using self-service kiosks
Integrations: Ensure compatibility with existing software you use (accounting, marketing, etc.) or plan to integrate in the future
Technical Support: Reliable ongoing support from the IT vendor is crucial for troubleshooting and maintaining your POS system
Overall, by prioritizing these core features alongside the customization potential, you can ensure you get a powerful tool that drives efficiency, enhances the customer experience, and gives you a significant edge in your domain.
Want to build a custom POS system for your business? Send your requirements and we’ll get back to you. Click here now!
Popular POS Systems in the Market
Custom POS systems offer a robust solution. However, you must choose a reliable vendor and pay for the development cost.
So, if you aren’t comfortable in this area, there are off-the-shelf options to explore. In this section, you can find some of the famous names.
Name
Utility
Square POS
It is well-suited for small businesses and startups. Square POS has a user-friendly interface, a free basic plan, and a wide range of hardware options. However, some users report limitations on features and customization options
Shopify POS
This choice is ideal for businesses with an existing Shopify online store. It offers seamless integration between online and in-person sales, along with inventory management and customer profiles. Still, it may not be the most cost-effective option for businesses without an online presence
Clover POS
This is a versatile system focusing on hardware options and customization. It’s suitable for a variety of business types, from retail to restaurants. However, the pricing can be complex and may vary depending on chosen hardware and features
Toast POS
This name is a popular choice for restaurants, offering features specifically designed for the industry, such as table management, kitchen display systems, and menu management tools. It can be pricier than some general-purpose POS systems
KORONA POS
If you want a feature-rich POS system suitable for various retail businesses, this option is worth exploring. It offers strong inventory management, reporting, and customer management tools. However, pricing may be a consideration for smaller businesses
Understandably, such options offer less personalization compared to a custom system. However, they can meet the requirements of some businesses lacking budget or resources.
We still believe that you can develop a custom system as part of a long-term business development plan. In the next section, we’ll quickly explain why choosing custom development can prove profitable.
Why Can Developing Custom POS Be More Lucrative?
Without any ado, consider the following points that justify the decision to develop a custom POS system:
Custom POS eliminates adapting your business processes to a generic system. It can match your workflows, saving time and reducing errors. So, you experience faster transactions, happier customers, and potentially lower labor costs
Generic POS systems might offer basic customer management features, but a custom system allows you to integrate loyalty programs, targeted promotions, or self-service kiosks. This aspect can lead to increased customer satisfaction, repeat business, and higher average order values
Off-the-shelf platforms provide essential data, but a custom system can capture and analyze highly relevant information for your business. Such data empowers you to make informed decisions for better inventory management, marketing strategies, and staff scheduling
Custom POS systems can have robust security features for your needs and data. This facet minimizes the risk of data breaches and financial losses
While the upfront cost of developing a custom system might seem higher, it can be a wise long-term investment. The cost savings from improved efficiency, reduced errors, and data-driven decision-making can outweigh the initial investment.
Additionally, you avoid the potential limitations and recurring fees associated with off-the-shelf solutions that may not align with your evolving needs.
Build Your Custom POS System Today!
Today, the business landscape has become competitive. You need to maintain efficiency and customer satisfaction through all possible means. A custom POS system isn’t just a point-of-sale solution — it’s a strategic investment designed to streamline your operations, target the right customers, and empower data-driven decision-making.
While off-the-shelf POS systems offer a starting point, they lack the customization and scalability to propel your business forward. So, choosing a custom system signifies a commitment to growth and long-term thinking.
This decision can help you transform operations and give you a significant edge over competitors. So, are you ready to enhance your business’s POS area? Contact us today to discuss how a custom POS system can become your auxiliary asset.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Isn’t a pre-built POS system cheaper than a custom one?
While upfront costs for custom POS development can be higher, you should consider long-term savings. Custom systems improve efficiency, reduce errors, and provide valuable data for better decision-making, potentially outweighing the initial investment.
2. Our business is constantly evolving. Can a custom POS system adapt?
Absolutely! A well-designed custom POS system is scalable. As your business grows, skilled developers can add new features and integrations to accommodate your changing requirements.
3. We don’t have an in-house tech team. How do we develop a custom POS system?
Many businesses partner with qualified development firms that specialize in building custom POS systems. Such organizations can guide you through the process and ensure the system meets your needs.
4. Security is a significant concern. Will a custom POS be more secure?
Custom POS systems can possess robust security features tailored to your specific data and operations. This facet can minimize the risk of breaches compared to generic systems with a broader range of users.
5. How long does it take to develop a custom POS system?
The development timeline depends on the complexity of your needs and desired features. Discussing your requirements with an experienced development partner will help determine a realistic timeframe for your custom POS system.
Excellence-driven professional with 15+ years of experience in increasing productivity, and revenue, while effectively managing products of all sizes. He has worked for international clients in the US, UK, and Singapore and local companies in various domains. With excellent attention to detail and a methodical approach to execution, he is an expert in bringing projects to a successful stage. He follows James Humes’s famous saying- “The art of communication is the language of leadership.”
