- An iPad POS system can compete with a PC-based system.
- iPad POS solutions offer many benefits, including tableside payment and inventory tracking.
- To begin using your iPad POS, you'll need to set it up and download a POS app.
When evaluating your point of sale (POS) options, you might think that an iPad POS system cannot compete with the level of depth that a PC-based system offers. This is a misconception. Many restaurant POS systems are designed especially for iPads. These systems let you conduct all of your sales, track your inventory and more, directly from the iPad. Plus, restaurant iPad POS systems are mobile and can connect to any Wi-Fi network. You can use them at the table or on a counter, or you can carry it around.
If you are considering a restaurant iPad POS system, here are a few of the benefits and features they offer.
Tableside payment processing
With iPad POS systems, you have the luxury of being mobile. Some restaurants have even started putting iPad at tables so customers can order and pay without talking to a server. When customers' checks are ready, you can process their payments right at the table. Instead of taking their credit cards to the register and bringing back a receipt for them to sign, you can process their cards and have them sign directly on the iPad. This streamlines the payment process both for customers and your employees.
Inventory management
Your iPad POS system automatically tracks your inventory. It can also provide you with a detailed list of which items you are running low on and need to refill soon. You can even set the system up so that you receive email notifications when it is time to restock specific ingredients. A good iPad POS system shows you which ingredients are popular. This lets you stay on top of your ordering and lets you see which items are customer favorites.
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Cloud access
The information your iPad POS processes is stored in the cloud. This means that you can access your account from any internet-enabled device. If you need to make changes to your inventory, you can easily do so from your desktop computer, as making big changes with a screen and keyboard is easier than entering a lot of data from an iPad. When you make changes from the desktop, the system will automatically update so you can see all of your changes from the iPad in real time.
Easy setup
One of the greatest benefits of using an iPad POS system is how easy the systems are to use and set up. All that is required to operate an iPad POS system is an iPad, the cloud-based software and a credit card reader, which is often provided by the credit card processor your POS provider partners with.
After you set up your account, you and your employees will instantly be able to use your iPad POS system to assist your customers and place orders. The simplicity of an iPad system ensures that nearly everyone will be able to use the program without needing in-depth training. If you do need to offer training to your employees, many POS system providers offer help and support for getting started.
How to turn your iPad into a POS system
There are only a few things that you must have to use your iPad as a POS system. These are the iPad itself, a card reader and the POS system you choose. You will need to take some steps to set up your iPad as a POS.
Setting up the iPad
Since they are generally meant for personal use, the default settings are often geared to this. You’ll want to change them before you use it as a POS. First, create a new Apple ID or use one that you only use for business purposes. If you use your personal ID, your personal information will be available on the device.
Next, you will want to turn off auto-updates and disable Siri. You aren't likely to need her when using your iPad as a POS. Updates are important, but you don't want it to update in the middle of business hours.
You may need to disable screen lock and turn off the auto sleep setting, particularly if you are using it as a kiosk. You may need to turn off the auto-brightness function as well so you can select the brightness that works best under your conditions. If you are concerned about what employees or customers may do on the iPad, you can set up guided access. When the tablet is in guided access mode, it will only allow you to access the apps that you choose for guided access mode.
Finding and setting up a POS
Once your iPad is ready for business, you'll need to download a POS app. You can find these in the App store. Browse the App Store, or check out The Best iPad Restaurant POS System Reviews.
Once you've downloaded the app, you'll need to sign in to a merchant verification service to begin processing payments. You'll also need to add your menu items and the number of tables at your restaurant. You may need to enter your inventory as well so the POS system can keep track of it for you. The POS system will prompt you through this process.
Peripherals
Many businesses find that they need peripherals for the iPad POS. These can include a receipt printer, a tablet stand and a cash drawer. You can purchase equipment bundles to ensure that everything is compatible. Just be sure that it's also compatible with your POS system and iPad. Once you have connected your peripherals to your iPad, you are ready to use your iPad as a POS.