6 Tips to Effectively Use Your iPad for a POS System

Point of sale (POS) systems have come a long way since the invention of the cash register in the late 19th century. Whether you’re a retailer or restaurant owner, you’ve likely already invested in a sturdy POS system for your business.

The advent of credit card readers has further transformed the way in which POS transactions are implemented. However, the rise of tablets, particularly iPads, has been a game-changer for POS systems. Considering that iPads are built for security and accessibility, they’re ideal for POS systems.

Today, retail stores use iPads to let customers browse your product catalogue, choose what they want to buy, and make secure payments on their own. Likewise, restaurants can use iPads to display menus, take orders, and complete payment transactions.

The flexibility and convenience of an iPad can go a long way to improve the customer experience and drive more conversions. It can go a long way to boost customer retention and set your business apart from your competitors.

However, using iPads for POS also comes with a set of challenges. You need to maintain the devices in proper working condition and ensure that they aren’t stolen. Nothing will frustrate your customers more than a sluggish iPad that keeps shutting down while a customer is trying to complete a transaction.

But this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t make iPads a part of your POS system. Instead, you just have to follow the best practices for using iPads for POS. From choosing the right iPad wall mount to installing timely updates – there’s a lot you can do to seamlessly operate your POS.

In this blog, we’ll discuss a few simple tips that’ll go a long way to ensure that your iPad POS system impresses every customer. Let’s get started.

1. Use a Dedicated Device

The biggest mistake that novice retailers make is to use a single iPad for both personal and professional purposes. But you wouldn’t want to clutter your iPad POS with pictures and videos of your pet dog, would you? Apart from slowing the device down, it also jeopardizes your privacy.

That’s why as a ground-rule, you should use a dedicated iPad to process business transactions. Also, make sure you keep the device away from the reach of children. Otherwise, they might end up installing irrelevant apps, altering device settings, and even modifying crucial business data.

2. Watch the Storage

Next, you need to ensure that the iPads you use for your POS have sufficient storage. Avoid installing unnecessary apps on these devices. Also, don’t download any photos or multimedia files that might occupy the internal memory.

It’s also a good idea to regularly check the device and remove any junk or unwanted files. Make sure you schedule memory scans during off-peak hours. The last thing you want is to keep your customers waiting while you figure out which files and apps to delete.

3. Check for Updates

This is another crucial step for ensuring that your iPad POS system remains fast, reliable, and secure. Start by keeping an eye out for update notifications for any apps you might be using. Also, watch out for any major iPadOS updates. Make sure you set aside a specific time of the day, preferably during off-peak hours, to monitor and install various updates.

4. Choose the Right iPad Mount/Stand

An unharnessed iPad in a busy store is just a theft waiting to happen. Despite the most stringent security checks, your POS devices could get stolen. Even well-meaning customers could accidentally drop an iPad on the floor.

That’s why you should make it a point to secure every iPad with a sturdy and durable iPad stand. From magnetic stands and wall mounts to table enclosures and rolling stands – you’ll find a wide array of options. The type of stand you choose will depend on your business objectives, as well as customers’ preferences.

5. Keep It Clean

Nothing turns off potential customers away faster than an iPad POS covered with scratches, fingerprints, and grime. That’s why you should make it a point to schedule routine maintenance of all your POS devices.

Use a mild cleaner and a soft microfiber cloth to wipe dirt, grime, and fingerprints off the surface of the iPad. Also, it’s a good idea to invest in a sturdy tempered glass screen protector to prevent scratches from rigorous use.

6. Use Secure Passwords

If you’re using an iPad as a POS device, it’s likely going to store a plethora of sensitive business data. You wouldn’t want staff members or customers to gain unauthorized access to this information.

That’s why you should use strong alphanumeric passwords for critical apps on the iPad. Also, make sure you leverage advanced security features, such as Touch ID, available in modern iPad versions.

Do you have any other tips for using and maintaining an iPad POS system? Share your suggestions in the comments section below.