Tips for Researching POS Systems

To prevent the costly mistake of choosing the wrong Point of Sale system, we've put together a list of essential questions to guide your decision-making process. These questions will help you evaluate systems and suppliers to ensure they meet the unique requirements of your business.

Avoid risks like hidden costs that blow out your budget, suppliers going out of business, restrictive POS software tied to specific hardware, or “cheap” systems that require costly upgrades as your business grows. Our POS Research Guide will help you choose a system that drives success and delivers value.

Investigating the Business

1. How long has the supplier been in business?

A supplier’s longevity is a strong indicator of reliability and trustworthiness. Many new POS providers enter the market but fail to establish a sustainable presence. Choosing a supplier with a proven track record ensures ongoing support, continuous software updates, and a stable partnership you can depend on.

With over 25 years in the industry, Triniteq is a trusted name in POS solutions. We’ve weathered economic changes, technological advances, and market shifts while continually expanding our offerings. Our stability means we’ll be here to support your business for the long haul.

2. Do they specialise in both Hospitality and Retail POS systems?

Industry-specific systems often focus on one sector, but suppliers with expertise in both hospitality and retail can offer broader functionality. Cross-industry features, such as inventory management in retail or table service options in hospitality, provide a competitive edge when implemented in new ways.

We’re specialists in both hospitality and retail, bringing innovative solutions to each industry. Our hospitality systems integrate retail-style inventory management, while our retail solutions benefit from hospitality-inspired customer engagement tools. This cross-pollination of ideas helps us deliver solutions that truly stand out.

Products & Services

1. Can the POS software be installed on your existing hardware?

Many POS providers require you to purchase specific hardware, adding unnecessary costs to your implementation. A system that works with your existing devices can save time and money while simplifying the transition.

Our software is designed for most modern POS terminals running the Windows operating system, providing both flexibility and affordability. Whether you’re using tablets, desktops, or traditional POS hardware, we'll inspect your hardware to ensure compatibility, thereby reducing costs and simplifying your setup.

2. How good is their POS support?

When choosing a POS provider, the quality of support can make or break your experience. Whether you're troubleshooting an issue, upgrading your system, or learning new features, having responsive and knowledgeable support is essential. Many POS providers outsource their support services, leading to delays, language barriers, and a lack of familiarity with your specific business needs. This can leave you feeling stuck and frustrated when you need help the most.

At Triniteq, we pride ourselves on delivering the best support in the industry. Our entire support and development teams are based in Australia, ensuring you receive assistance from experts who understand your business environment and share your time zone. Our highly skilled team is dedicated to resolving issues quickly and effectively, whether it’s a small query or a complex system challenge. By keeping support local, we provide a seamless experience that allows your business to stay operational and profitable without unnecessary delays.

3. Do they develop their own software or simply resell it?

Suppliers who develop their own software have more control over updates, customisation, and problem resolution. Resellers, on the other hand, may lack the in-depth knowledge needed to address complex issues or provide tailored solutions.

As software developers, we continuously enhance our systems with new features, security updates, and performance improvements. Our deep understanding of the software ensures your business receives exceptional support and cutting-edge functionality.

4. Do they have integrated loyalty, membership, and marketing tools?

Retaining customers is significantly more cost-effective than acquiring new ones, making tools like loyalty programs, membership options, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems essential for long-term business success. Many POS providers offer limited CRM capabilities within the POS system but a well-integrated solution can provide more functionality and a better customer experience.

At Triniteq, we provide a powerful POS system that integrates seamlessly with the best CRM systems to deliver a comprehensive set of tools. By combining the best-in-class CRM solutions with our reliable POS system, we ensure your business has everything it needs to retain customers and build lasting relationships - all without unnecessary complexity.

What's included in the quote?

1. Is integrated EFTPOS included?

Integrated EFTPOS simplifies payments, but some suppliers charge extra for this feature, significantly increasing costs. Make sure to confirm whether it’s included in the initial quote.

We believe integrated EFTPOS should be standard, not an add-on. That’s why all our quotes include this feature at no extra cost, ensuring seamless payment processing from day one.

2. Is configuration and programming included?

Hidden costs for programming or configuration can derail your budget. Ensure the quoted price includes a fully functional system, ready to operate when it’s installed.

Our quotes include everything you need for a complete, ready-to-use system. From programming to installation, we ensure your POS system is fully functional and optimised for your business operations.

3. Is support and training included?

Proper training is essential for your team to use the system effectively. Some suppliers limit training or charge extra for additional sessions, which can impact your budget and staff readiness.

We provide comprehensive remote or on-site training before or on go-live day, ensuring your staff are confident and capable. For all other training and support needs we provide a comprehensive online knowledgebase, and an expert support team. Support is included in your low monthly POS licence fee so you never have to worry about additional costs.

4. Does the quoted price include an on-site technician on go-live day?

Having a technician on-site during your system’s launch can reduce stress and ensure everything runs smoothly. Check whether this service is included or available at an extra cost.

Whenever possible, we'll include an on-site technician for go-live day in our quotes. If travel is required, we’ll communicate any additional costs upfront, so there are no surprises.

5. How much will the system cost over 3 or 5 years?

Long-term costs can vary greatly depending on the pricing model. Flat-rate systems offer predictable expenses, while percentage-based systems can become expensive for high-turnover businesses.

Our flat-rate pricing model is $55 per month (including GST), costing just $3,300 over five years for a 1-POS terminal business. In contrast, a system charging 1% on $1 million turnover would cost $50,000 over the same period, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of our approach. Check out our POS pricing.

6. Are other integrations included in the quoted price?

Integrations with third-party software enhance functionality but often come with additional costs. Ensure you understand which integrations are included and which are extra.

Many of our integrations are included for free, giving you access to essential tools without additional expenses. Check out our integration options to see how we can meet your needs affordably. Please note: Third-party supplier fees may apply and they should be contacted directly.

Scalability & Flexibility

1. Is the system scalable as your business grows?

Your POS system should be able to grow with your business. Whether you’re adding more locations, introducing new services, or expanding your product range, the POS should adapt to your needs without requiring a costly overhaul.

A system that can’t scale could limit your growth, forcing you to upgrade or switch systems later. Our PowerEPOS solution is designed to grow with your business, supporting single sites, multi-site operations, and even international expansions.

2. What is the level of customisation offered?

Every business is unique, and your POS system should reflect your specific needs. Look for systems that allow for customisation, such as tailored menus, workflows, and integrations.

A one-size-fits-all approach often leaves gaps in functionality or forces you to adapt your operations to the system. We provide a highly customisable solution, allowing you to configure your system to match your the exact requirements of yoru business.

3. How easy is it to use?

A user-friendly interface is essential for reducing training time and minimising errors. The system should be intuitive for both staff and customers.

A complicated system can lead to frustration, inefficiency, and a higher risk of mistakes. PowerEPOS is designed with ease-of-use in mind, offering a clean, intuitive interface that staff can learn quickly, regardless of their tech skills.

Security & Reliability

1. Have there been any outages?

Reliability is the backbone of any successful Point of Sale (POS) system. In recent years, some of the largest POS providers have experienced multiple global outages, leaving businesses unable to process transactions, serve customers, or operate efficiently - sometimes for hours or even days. These disruptions can result in significant revenue loss and customer dissatisfaction.

In contrast, Triniteq has maintained an impeccable record of reliability, with zero outages in our 25 years of business. Our steadfast focus on delivering a stable and dependable system ensures that our customers can operate without interruptions, even during peak times. This unmatched reliability is a testament to our commitment to quality and to providing solutions that businesses can trust, day in and day out.

2. Is the system secure?

Data security is critical, especially when handling customer payments and sensitive business information. Verify that the POS provider adheres to industry standards for security and compliance.

A data breach can damage your reputation, lead to financial loss, and put your customers at risk. Our system complies with all major security standards, including PCI DSS, ensuring your data and transactions are safe.

3. What are the maintenance and upgrade policies?

Technology evolves, and your POS system needs to stay up-to-date to remain effective. Check whether updates and maintenance are included in the price and how often they are performed.

Regular updates ensure your system remains secure, compatible with new technology, and equipped with the latest features. All updates and maintenance are included in our flat-rate pricing, ensuring your system always operates at peak performance.

4. Can the POS operate offline?

Uninterrupted operation is vital, especially during peak hours. Check whether the system can continue processing transactions if the internet goes down.

A system that relies solely on internet connectivity can cause significant disruptions if your connection is unstable. PowerEPOS includes robust offline functionality, allowing you to continue serving customers seamlessly during internet outages.

Reporting & Analytics

1. What reporting and analytics features are available?

A good POS system doesn’t just process transactions—it provides valuable insights into your business. Look for detailed reporting and analytics features that help you track sales trends, monitor inventory, and analyse customer behaviour.

Real-time data helps you make informed decisions, improve operations, and boost profitability. Insights our reporting and anlytics tool offers deep insights into your business performance, accessible anytime from anywhere.

2. What Is the Return on Investment (ROI)?

Beyond the upfront costs, consider how the POS system will help increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve customer satisfaction. A system with a high ROI will pay for itself over time.

A POS system isn’t just an expense - it’s an investment in your business’s future. Our solutions are designed to maximise ROI by simplifying operations, reducing costs, and enhancing the customer experience.

Takeaways

Choosing the right POS system requires thorough research and careful consideration. By asking the right questions and evaluating your options, you can select a system that meets your needs and grows with your business. At Triniteq, we pride ourselves on delivering reliable, high-quality solutions with transparent pricing and exceptional support.

Let us help you find the perfect fit for your business.

If you're seeking a quality, Australian-made and supported Point of Sale solution for your hospitality or retail business, look no further than Triniteq.

Our innovative technologies and high-quality service are designed to simplify operations, enhance customer experience, and make you more money.

Discover our range of products and services today.

If you're new here, watch our Demo video, or Book a demo for more info.