Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1256819
N e w ! A B M P P o c k e t P a t h o l o g y a t w w w. a b m p . c o m / a b m p - p o c k e t - p a t h o l o g y - a p p . 71 up charges, you'll also want to consider the monthly fee and per-transaction fees. Make sure to research all of the costs associated with the POS setup you are considering so there are no surprises. Ease of Use Another consideration are the features you need for a successful and stress- free transition to contactless payments. Also consider how the new system will integrate with your existing POS apps— unless you're starting from scratch. Finally, assess the customer service and technical support reviews of the companies you are considering. After all, ease of use definitely includes good quality service and support when needed. Installation Because POS systems vary so widely, there is no one-size-fits-all installation guide. There are a few ground rules, though, that can help you get the most out of your new POS system. Software. Most POS system software is straightforward, but check your system's website to be sure there are adequate assistance options and tutorials. Also check to see if there are extra fees attached for pre-configuring or modifying your software before shipping. Hardware. To make hardware connection easier, many POS apps and devices are designed to connect via Bluetooth. You'll need to place your POS system where it can easily be accessed by you and your clients. If your system features accounting, human resources, or inventory capabilities, make sure you can install it on the relevant hardware (computers, tablets, cell phones, etc.) necessary for synchronicity in your business functions. Service. Again, find a POS provider with excellent customer service and tech support reviews to help ensure you're getting what you pay for—and that you're maximizing the overall effectiveness of your system. Square is everywhere. It became the OG of POS back in 2009 when Jack Dorsey (founder of Twitter) and an artisan glass-blower friend (Jim McKelvey) created a mobile credit card payment method that allowed even the smallest businesses to accept payments anywhere with a smartphone. Square smashed the barrier to entry for credit card payments so dramatically, it turned the whole POS industry on its head. Square's chip reader and contactless payment readers can accept payments from most contactless payment apps. It's still a white square, but bigger, and connects to your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth. The reader can be mounted to a countertop stand or you can mount it to your iPhone with a special case, although the counter stand is not yet an option for Android devices. The Square reader for contactless and chip transactions is $49 and the POS software is free. Transaction fees are 2.6 percent of the transaction plus 10 cents.