Point Of Sale Systems: How to Choose One That's Right for Your Business</h1> <article> <h1>Point Of Sale Systems: How to Choose One That's Right for Your Business</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:10 GMT</p> <p>A point of sale (POS) system can have a dramatic impact on the way you run your business -- and on your bottom line. Choosing the right one requires careful planning. </p> <p>Here are some of the things you need to think through to make a good decision when selecting POS equipment and systems for your business. </p> <p><b>Use this list as a starting point for your planning process.</b> </p> <ul> <li>First of all, price should not be the main consideration when buying a POS system. The improved efficiency, greater flexibility and better reporting should pay for the investment in a reasonable period of time. </li> <li>Don’t start off by calling for lists of features of various POS systems. Instead, start with a comprehensive analysis of what your business requires. </li> <li>Do you have operations spread over multiple locations? What are the implications? </li> </ul> <p>If you run a restaurant, for example, you may need to keep some parameters common across locations while varying others. For instance, your menu may be identical at all locations, but prices of some items may vary from one outlet to another. The system you choose must be capable of implementing such differences. </p> <ul> <li>How easily can you make changes to the system? You can be sure that your business will keep changing in many respects -- employees join and leave, prices go up or down, your product range expands, locations get added or deleted and so on. </li> </ul> <p>Ask yourself if the programming interface will easily allow your employees to execute such changes. </p> <ul> <li>Will it be possible to make changes ahead of time? For example, if you’re beginning a special promotion on November 15, can you input the price changes well in advance and set the system to automatically effect the changes on that date? </li> </ul> <p>This as well as other types of flexibility are essential for many retail operations. </p> <ul> <li>To what extent will the POS system need to integrate with your accounting system? Does it have to be real time? Or is it enough to have an export of entries at day-end? </li> <li>If you are running a bar, does the POS system need to work with liquor control devices? A liquor control device tracks pours from bottles. This makes billing easier and reduces shrinkage. </li> <li>Will the credit / debit card processing system in the POS equipment work well with your merchant account? </li> <li>Will the system allow you to implement special deals for frequent shoppers? For instance, each purchase could have points associated with them and these points could eventually translate into lower prices or free gifts. </li> <li>What reporting capabilities will you need? If you work across multiple locations, will the system give you an online real-time report of transactions completed? </li> </ul> <p>Most dealers will have sample reports available. Ask to see them so that you can compare better. </p> <ul> <li>In most cases, the POS system will have to be upgraded as your needs evolve and expand. How quickly can the dealer respond to your needs? </li> </ul> <p>Also, most dealers put out regular software upgrades. Are they included in the contract or does the dealer charge extra for them? </p> <p>For the sake of avoiding compatibility problems, plan to purchase new hardware of the same kind as the original. That way you’ll ensure everything works well together -- and even if there are problems, you can get the dealer to handle it. </p> <ul> <li>Support is a critical consideration. What happens if your POS system goes down? This can have a serious impact on the business. You need to get a detailed written agreement on how the dealer is going to handle breakdowns. </li> </ul> <p>The dealer may try to diagnose and solve the problem over phone initially. If that doesn’t work, they may send support staff to your location. And if the problem can’t be solved quickly, you may need to get equipment on loan till your system is repaired. </p> <p>POS system downtime can have serious implications. Make sure you get the support you need. </p> <p>The above list should help trigger ideas about the kind of issues you need to look at. Do your planning well before deciding on a POS system for your business.</p> <p> </p> <p>About the Author: Mark Henry is a systems consultant and has written extensively on POS systems. His articles at http://www.pos-equipment-guide.info/ and at http://www.pos-equipment-guide.info/choosing-pos-systems.html offer tips for choosing the right point of sale equipment how point of sale systems need to fit in with the business environment and more. </p> <p>Article Source: ArticleDepot.net</p> <p>Link: <a href="http://www.pos-equipment-guide.info/">http://www.pos-equipment-guide.info/</a><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:Courier New;"></span></p> <p> </p> </article> <article> <h1>Loss Prevention Equipment: Spend a Little Money to Save a Lot of Profit</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:08 GMT</p> <p><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Small, family owned stores or large "big box" retail businesses all suffer the same problem: theft of money or inventory. Last year, alone, retailers brought in more than eight hundred billion dollars, but lost more than two hundred billion to "shrinkage." This shrinkage may result from outright, gun-toting robbers, to shoplifters, to untrustworthy employees.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">In certain areas, vandalism can be a serious and costly consideration. Whatever the cause, Loss Prevention Equipment can significantly reduce or prevent such occurrences, and help local law enforcement successfully respond to those thefts that do happen.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Loss Prevention Equipment and technology have evolved rapidly in the past few years.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">While strategically located convex mirrors are still a useful and economical method of monitoring difficult "line-of-site" locations in your business, the wide variety of sophisticated Loss Prevention tools now readily available allows for cost-effective configurations to suit virtually any retail business budget.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Examples include:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Closed Circuit Television systems, (CCTV);</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* A variety of cameras and monitors;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Access Control systems;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Digital Recorders or Time Lapse VCR 's ;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Cash Register interfaces;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Counterfeit Money Detectors; and,</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">* Security Tags and Gates.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Depending on the resources available for dedication to Loss Prevention Equipment, one, or a combination of the foregoing can provide a viable solution to your security needs. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">CCTV systems, whether used with one camera, or a series of cameras, send their feed to a monitor or monitors, or a choice of recording devices. They can be hard-wired or wireless;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Cameras come in a very wide variety of shapes and sizes, from those that are conspicuously mounted to provide observation and deterrence, to small, virtually undetectable units, which can be used to monitor cash registers or other highly-sensitivity locations.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Some are designed to automatically sense and adapt to varying lighting condition, while others are specialized to accommodate consistent dim lighting. Color or black and white transmission options are available. Dome cameras, similar to what may bee seen in casinos, located in ceiling areas, also allow for great coverage;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Single monitors can be configured to work in conjunction with multiple cameras, providing a "flip" sequence of images of specific areas; alternatively, several monitor can be linked with several cameras to provide constant surveillance of "hot spots,";</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Access controls include coded key pad door locks, to allow only those individuals with proper security clearance to enter controlled areas;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">If the Loss Prevention need is to record locational activity, choices range from time lapse VCR 's to digital recording devices;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Cash Register Interfacing is designed to discover and prevent "Point of Sale," (POS), theft. It allows ownership/management to extract the data from a cash register that prints on the receipt and overlay this data on a video picture of the check out area.Front end cameras are positioned to see the cashier, the register drawer, items purchased and the customer.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">The recorded scene can then be easily reviewed to verify that the check-out was legitimate. An overt interface, which is obvious to both clerks and customers, deters theft by establishing fear in those with ulterior motives. A covert, or hidden, interface may not prevent the theft, but will provide evidence in support of prosecution.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">POS thefts include short rings, no rings, substitute scanning, pilfering and short changing;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Some sort of counterfeit money detection is routinely used. Surprisingly, the commonly seen security pen markers, according the U.S. Secret Service Financial Crime unit, have an 83% failure rate. Their accuracy is diminished by certain chemicals in common products such as bleach and soaps. This puts the retailer at risk both for missing the true counterfeits, and falsely accusing a customer who is using authentic currency.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">The better solution is the use of electronic devices which range in ability from simply verifying the authenticity of currency, to identifying false checks, credit cards, driver licenses, etc.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Finally, there are the familiar security tags and gates commonly seen in drug, clothing and music stores.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">To find the optimal Loss Prevention Equipment solution, utilize on-line research, coupled with consultation with an experienced equipment manufacturer or retailer, who can assist you with the design and installation of the appropriate system.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-size:9pt;font-family:Verdana;mso-ansi-language:EN;"><a href="http://www.content4reprint.com/profile/streditorial-171.htm"></a></span></b><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Author: </span></b><b><a href="http://www.content4reprint.com/profile/streditorial-171.htm">streditorial</a></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><a href="http://www.content4reprint.com/profile/streditorial-171.htm"></a></b><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">This article published by the editorial staff of National Tollfree Directory. For more information about CCTV Systems and Retail Loss Prevention Equipment, visit Shortage Control, Inc. at www.shortagecontrol.com. Please direct any feedback on this article to <a href="mailto:editorial@strbusinessmedia.com"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;">editorial@strbusinessmedia.com</span></a>.</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">Source:</span></b><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"> <a href="http://www.content4reprint.com/"><span style="font-weight:normal;">http://www.content4reprint.com</span></a> </span></b><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">Free high quality articles.</span></b><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Link</span></b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">: http:<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;">//</b><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;"> www.shortagecontrol.com</span></b></span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Important Tips for Storing Hazardous Materials</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:08 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"></span></p> <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Most companies have hazardous materials lurking around (and no, I'm not referring to the day old coffee in the break room.) According to the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management, hazardous material is, "any item or agent (biological, chemical, physical) which has the potential to cause harm to humans, animals, or the environment, either by itself or through interaction with other factors." This broad definition covers many materials used in any workplace. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Some of the more common hazardous materials are cleaning supplies. Small quantities of these materials may not be considered hazardous, and can be stored as any other materials. When stored in bulk they become a serious hazard, and are regulated. Some businesses, depending on what industry they are in, use and store more hazardous materials than others. Many materials that are used in common household tasks become a regulated hazard when bought and stored in bulk. So how does a company know what materials are considered hazardous?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States, and six organizations on the international level (including; the FAO, UNIDO, OECD, the World Heath Organization, the United Nations Environmental Program and the International Labour Organization) participate in the Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC). These organizations place regulations on how certain chemical (along with biological and physical) agents must be labeled. This helps a company determine if a material is hazardous. A general rule of thumb is, if the material has a hazard warning (inhalation, contact, etc.) treat it as a hazardous material.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Companies that sell materials that are considered hazardous are required to send a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) with the product when shipped. Sometimes this must be requested when buying small quantities. This lists the properties of the material, what it reacts with, precautions, first aid instructions, and other vital information. These must be kept in an easily accessible place where employees can access them. This is a vital part of a company's Hazard Communication plan. Any employee who works with a hazardous material must have access to the MSDS's and should be briefed on the material as well.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">When hazardous materials, used in day to day operations, are stored in small quantities in the workplace they should be labeled with the material name and any corresponding precautions. They should be placed in their proper storage locations after use and containers should be inspected for leaks before use and before storage. These small amounts are considered safe to store in the work area, when labeled properly, if they do not present an inhalation or contact hazard when stored. The containers must be sealed and should not be stored near food or drink and away from open flames. They should not be stored in a break room or other area where employees will be spending time without proper precautionary measures (masks, goggles, protective clothing, etc.) </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Larger quantities of hazardous materials must be stored in storage areas designated for the material. These areas should be properly vented, allowing the passage of fresh air, but the air-flow should, of course, not vent back into the workplace. The area should be marked clearly with the material name and the specific hazard that is present. These materials should not be stored in the immediate work area and should be away from all major heat sources and any open flames. All precautions should be taken to avoid spills. Any container in storage must be sealed and should be resealed after use. Never store hazardous materials without a cover. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Materials with reactive properties should never be stored together, even if sealed in their own containers. A small leak of acetone that seeps into the storage container of sulfuric acid could have an explosive result. Chemicals that are reactive with water should be kept away from water sources and areas with excess moisture in the air. This may require a dehumidifying system. Some chemicals react with air and can combust spontaneously. These must be kept in air tight containers. Those compounds that react to shock must be stored in secure containers away from the possibility of accidental jarring or bumping. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">It is important to research the properties of chemicals before setting up a storage space for them. Knowing the hazards of a chemical and its reactive properties, can help with the decision making process. The MSDS on a particular material is a good place to start. Even before that, it might be possible to get information from the company producing or shipping it. Mark the storage areas clearly and educate employees on the company's Hazard Communication plan (an OSHA regulation.) Keep all chemicals, and other hazardous materials, sealed when not in use and store them in their proper location. Have a plan in place for the unfortunate occasion that a spill occurs. These steps will ensure that the hazardous materials in the workplace will be contained and the employees will be safe.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">About the Author</span></strong><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">: Craig Smith is a freelance writer who writes about topics concerning planning, safety preparedness and demonstrations for emergency response such as Safety Training Videos | Terrorism Response Videos.</span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Source: Articles Universe: http://articlesuniverse.com</span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Link</span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">: http://www.efilmgroup.com/</span></p> </article> </main></body></html>