At one time, a business was forced to set up cash registers at a fixed location, committing to a number of registers that would be sufficient to handle the load during the busiest days. If a store had one register, lines could become excruciatingly long during peak traffic times, but additional registers could sit unused most days, taking up space that could be used for merchandise.

Cloud-based POS systems can give businesses a scalability not provided by traditional cashiering systems. Retailers often work with a cloud hosting provider to set up a system that works for them, whether it’s a complete tablet-based POS or a hybrid system including traditional cash registers and mobile devices.

Tablet Scalability

Using a card reader and mobile POS software, retailers can now empower their salesclerks to move around the store or simply fill in at the customer service desk when traffic is higher. These devices are already being used by national chains like Bath & Body Works and Nordstrom to make employees more flexible. A retailer can schedule two or three clerks, for instance, with most clerks helping customers on the sales floor until things get busy. Once the customer base shifts to the cash register, those extra clerks can grab a mobile device and help out.

Tablet Mobility

Mobile POS also empowers staff with the tools they need to help customers. If a shopper is looking for an item in a certain color, employees can use tablets or smartphones to search other locations or determine whether the item can be ordered from a company’s website. This can help cut down on showrooming and improve customer service. Some stores offer in-store customers free shipping to their home if an item is ordered from their website because it isn’t available on site.

But one of the biggest reasons to offer mobile POS is the growing popularity of its use. Once your competitors are providing this convenience to customers, you’ll have a more difficult time competing using traditional cashiering hardware.