Web based point of sale software brings benefits of the cloud to the retail sector

Recent years have seen remarkable growth in the cloud software or web applications. A recent survey suggests that cloud computing is an online priority for 70% of sme businesses in the USA.

Now cloud software is coming to the retail point of sale sector. Reasons why businesses are choosing to use web based point of sale systems include

• Convenience of working on any platform


• Data is always backed up and safe


• Management can access reports and make price changes from any location


• Integration with other services, such as accounting, payroll or eCommerce


• Works on a browser on any platform, including an iPad

One of the main concerns about using web software in a busy retail environment, is what happens if the internet goes down, will the web based point of sale still work? Fortunately with modern HTML5, it is possible to build an application that works even offline.

One innovative new web based point of sale product that does this is called Vend. Designed in New Zealand in HTML5/PHP, Vend also integrates with online accounting software Xero and ecommerce software Shopify.

The beauty of web based point of sale products that they usually work with any existing equiptment, so there are minimal upgrade costs. And ongoing support and upgrades are built into the monthly fee structure, allowing business owners to shift outgoings from Capex to deductable expenses.