When IBM introduced the electronic cash register in the mid-1970s, the point-of-sale (POS) paradigm was created, but the company did not venture beyond the retail sector in its early years. The first restaurant POS software solution was developed on an Apple computer by a New York deli owner in the late 80s, and this encouraged other programmers to realize the potential of POS systems for the dining industry.
These days, POS solutions for restaurants move at the speed of industry and consumer trends. One of the most active trends in this regard has been detailed reporting, a POS functionality that provides insights on everything from sales to kitchen performance and from wait times to popular menu items.
Another trend that has proven popular among restaurant operators is offline functionality. Virtually all restaurant POS systems are cloud computing solutions, as they should be, but what happens when internet access goes down on a busy Saturday night? This is when offline mode is a POS feature you want. Instead of telling patrons that they can only pay with cash, offline mode allows you to collect payments made with credit cards and digital wallets. Once you get back online, a secure synchronization procedure seamlessly kicks in. This feature is part of the POS cloud-based backup system, which protects data with layered encrypted transmissions.
Want to learn more about other trends shaping the future of restaurant POS software? Visit www.CBSNorthStar.com today and see how POS systems are adjusting to consumer and industry trends.
