Launching a restaurant POS platform is vital for increasing business and being part of the digital transformation. The restaurant industry is constantly adapting to innovative tools, and this is one of them.

A restaurant POS platform streamlines tasks, from inventory forecasting to booking reservations. It’s a form of restaurant technology that’s essential, and every business should have one in place. Before we learn about using a restaurant POS platform, let’s take a look at what these systems consist of.

What Is a Restaurant POS Platform?

The acronym “POS” stands for “point of sale.” POS systems are necessary to accept payments, both online and in person.

New technology in restaurants allows POS partners to be game changers. Their systems can store data about a restaurant, from payments to schedules. Such information is vital to maximize operations.

There can be several features to integrate into a restaurant POS platform. Ensure that the one you’re using for your restaurant makes sense and has the tools to generate growth.

Restaurant POS System Features to Look Out For

Improve your business with an all-in-one restaurant POS platform. Whether you use it to take inventory, or want to simplify mobile orders, these solutions are very valuable.

When choosing an ideal platform, be mindful of the following restaurant POS system features:

• Multi-network solutions for chain restaurants
• The ability to integrate with online ordering apps (learn more about how to boost mobile food ordering)
• A user-friendly interface that’s simple to navigate

Depending on your business, there may be other variables to consider. However, launching a restaurant POS platform will be similar from one eatery to the next. So, let’s learn more about steps to add to your execution plan.

Steps to Successfully Launch A Restaurant POS Platform

Many changes will take place when you launch a restaurant POS platform. From daily operations to online ordering apps, you’ll want to plan ahead (learn more about what makes restaurants with online ordering so successful).

An onboarding strategy will be essential post-launch. Some steps to prioritize include:

• Choosing which POS hardware you’ll use
• Educating your restaurant wait staff about the new hospitality software
• Ensure your POS platform is mobile-friendly
• Differentiate your marketing plan with new features  

Let’s take a deeper dive into each step of launching a restaurant POS platform.

1. Decide On Hardware Options  

Restaurant POS platforms come with different types of hardware. In most cases, such equipment will dictate the overall expense. The number of restaurants you operate will also determine which kind of platform you use.

POS networks are another area to consider if you have multiple locations. Restaurant enterprises will want to onboard a POS platform that can connect to more than one eatery, reflecting the cost. The combination of data across each location is essential for budgeting, demand planning, conducting a weekly inventory audit, and marketing efforts.

Restaurant POS platform hardware could include:

• Cash registers
• Tablets (or other touchscreen devices)
• Receipt printers
• Card readers

A restaurant POS platform with the right hardware and networks will save you a ton of money and will pay for itself in no time.

2. Train the Restaurant Staff

Staff training is one of the ancillary expenses to consider before launching a restaurant POS platform. Digital platforms streamline daily tasks, but only if the team is well-equipped to do so.

Budget a set amount of hours you’ll take to train your staff before choosing a restaurant POS platform. Though it’ll briefly deter team members from their regular duties, it’ll result in seamless restaurant operations–who doesn’t want that?

Staff training should include the following steps:

• Tutorials on how to operate each set of hardware
• Walkthroughs of how to solve potential issues
• Explanations of how one restaurant POS platform syncs with other locations (if applicable)

Request a demo from your restaurant POS platform provider. Whether this occurs virtually or in person, take notes and invite the entire staff to join. For future reference, ask the provider if they have a knowledge base. Training and instructive videos will also become an efficient collection to have on hand upon hiring to staff members.

3. Be Compatible With Mobile Software

Restaurant tech includes mobile POS systems. Once your restaurant is available on delivery apps, customers can place orders anywhere.

Mobile apps can boost profits by a long shot, as customers don’t need to enter your facility. The convenience drives sales far beyond the capacity your restaurant can accommodate.

A mobile-friendly restaurant POS platform is perfect for on and off-premise payments – see on premise vs off premise. It will sync the customers’ history to store relevant data in one place. Such integrations are beneficial for managing money and inventory.

The right technology will eliminate the need for multiple tablets. Restaurant hosts often feel overwhelmed by the number of devices they need to keep up with. By replacing them all with one device, staff can organize standard tasks.

Since 2020, the restaurant industry has proven that businesses can operate even in dire times. So, ensure that your restaurant can remain open no matter what.

4. Optimize Relevant Marketing Initiatives

Make a plan to update your marketing strategy. A restaurant POS platform can host unique features that allow staff members to launch various DTC marketing campaigns.

A restaurant POS platform can store data to build effective marketing plans. Insights like favorite dishes or the busiest time of the year will show your marketing team how to plan well in advance.

No matter which business you operate, understanding the customer or “buyer persona” is the first step to properly speaking to them. So, use a restaurant POS platform that’ll allow you to do just that.

Simple and favorable marketing initiatives include the following ideas:

• Loyalty programs with exclusive rewards
• Seasonal discounts
• Happy hour and drink specials
• Pay now and deliver later options

Marketing strategies can help restaurants grow their customer base at a quick rate. The more promotions you host, the more reasons people will have to stop by. Whether your restaurant is new, or you’re introducing new techniques, traditional and eCommerce marketing plans are vital for consistent growth.

Learn more about creative restaurant marketing ideas to inspire your next campaign.

Frequently Asked Questions About Launching a Restaurant POS Platform

How Do I Open A POS System?

Opening a POS system is simple–just choose your solution, learn about it, and install the software. Once you decide on a restaurant POS platform provider, you’ll want to follow these steps:

• Obtain proper training
• Download the POS software
• Login and upload products information
• Input any already existing customer data
• Conduct training sessions with your team

After you launch your restaurant POS platform, you’ll be ready to continue accepting orders. Plus, you’ll have access to valuable insights about your customers.

How Long Does It Take to Launch a New POS system?

It should only take a few weeks to launch a new POS system. From the time you book your demo to when a system is up and running depends on the business, though.

The size of your restaurant, whether it’s a chain, and your current systems are all factors when considering a timeline. Be sure to allocate enough time to train your employees. If you’re already using a different POS system, you’ll want to figure out when to transfer any important data.

How Much Does It Cost to Open a POS System?

A POS system should cost your restaurant anywhere from $99 to a few hundred dollars per month, though there are variables to consider. A functional POS system doesn’t have to cost you a small fortune, though it depends on your business.

We provide restaurants with cost-effective and innovative POS solutions at a low price. Book a demo to learn more about POS integration!