Point of sale, or POS, systems play a crucial role in any retail business. They are how stores process transactions, track inventory, and get valuable business insights. Traditionally, retail POS software ran locally on in-store hardware. However, technology has advanced and cloud computing now enables POS systems to be accessed from anywhere via the Internet. This blog provides numerous advantages over traditional on-premise solutions; keep reading!

What is a POS System?

A POS system stands for point-of-sale system. It is the system that stores use to process transactions when customers buy things. Traditionally, apparel retail POS software has been those machines at the cash register that cashiers use to scan items and take payments from customers. But these days, POS systems can also operate through tablets or computers instead of just machines at the register.

Cloud-Based vs In-Store POS Systems

There are two main types of POS systems - cloud-based systems and in-store systems. An in-store POS system is one where all the hardware and software is located right in the store on devices hooked up to the store's computers and internet connection. A cloud-based POS system is different because the actual POS software lives on servers in remote data centers and is accessed over the internet instead of being installed in-store. With a cloud-based POS, the cashier can use any device like a tablet or smartphone that is connected to the internet to access the POS system instead of being tied to specific in-store devices.


Benefits of Cloud-Based POS for Apparel Stores

There are lots of benefits for apparel stores to using a cloud-based POS system instead of an in-store one. Here are some of the main advantages.

Access from Anywhere

With a cloud-based POS, store employees will not be limited to using the POS system just from the devices in the physical store. They will have the ability to access the POS from wherever they have an internet connection whether they are in the back room, at another store location, or even working from home. This allows stores to be more flexible.

Integrated Omnichannel Experience

Cloud-based POS systems make it easier for apparel stores to provide integrated online and in-store shopping. Features like buy online pickup in-store, ship from store, and online order management are simpler with a cloud-based POS. Customers will have a more seamless shopping experience across channels.

Automatic Updates

When a store uses a cloud-based POS, all system updates and maintenance are handled by the POS provider remotely. Store employees do not need to worry about installing new versions or security patches themselves. This saves store IT time and ensures the system always runs on the latest version without disrupting store associates.

Scalability

If an apparel store needs to open a new location or increase checkout capacity during busy seasons, scaling a cloud-based POS is much simpler than an in-store one. New devices can just be provided to access the same shared system. There is no need to purchase additional hardware, software licenses or set up a new in-store server.

Mobile Features

Many clothing store POS systems allow store employees to use features like inventory management, reporting, and customer lookup from a mobile app. Associates can check sizes and colors, bring up customer profiles, or process orders from anywhere in the store without needing an in-store terminal. This improves customer service and responsiveness for stores.

Data Access

With a cloud-based model, all POS data like sales, inventory, customers, and reports are stored centrally in the cloud instead of individually on local devices. This means that data will be securely accessible to anyone who needs it from any location. Managers can easily pull reports even when not in the store. Data is also backed up automatically so stores do not need to worry about data loss from local devices or network failures.

Lower Cost of Ownership

In the long run, apparel inventory management software that is cloud-based tends to have fewer upfront hardware costs and lower ongoing maintenance expenses compared to conventional in-store systems. Stores do not need to invest in local servers or replace devices as frequently. Maintenance, updates, 24/7 support, and backups are included in most cloud-based POS provider subscriptions making ownership costs more predictable.

Drawbacks to Consider

Of course, there are some potential downsides to consider with cloud-based POS as well:

Dependence on Internet connectivity: Stores rely on having a stable Internet connection to use all POS features. Temporary outages could impact operations if backups are not in place.

Security and privacy: Like any cloud-based system, stores need to trust that their POS provider has sufficient security and privacy safeguards in place to protect their data.

Training needs: Employees may need more training to adapt to a new cloud-based interface compared to an in-store system they are already familiar with.

Vendor lock-in: It can be more difficult to switch POS providers once a store's data and ecosystem are built within a particular vendor's cloud platform.

But for most retailers, the speed of innovation, reduced costs, and operational benefits that cloud-based POS brings will far outweigh any drawbacks. Making the investment in a cloud system ensures apparel stores can better serve customers both today and into the future.

If you own an apparel or clothing boutique currently struggling with an outdated POS that hinders your business, check out Hana Retail. To learn more about how a cloud-based point-of-sale inventory system from Hana Retail can streamline your operations and enhance the customer experience, simply contact us now!