A property management system can transform how a hotel business manages its different properties efficiently. One of the crucial components of PMS software is a point-of-sale system, also called POS. In a traditional hotel setup, the point-of-sale component will be the cash register desk that accepts payments, but in a Cloud-Based Restaurant POS Software, the process is slightly different.

POS system - what is it?

In hotel management software, POS can best be described as a computerized network consisting of all the software and hardware components needed for smooth, hassle-free transactions between the hotel and customers. It consolidates all the areas of business sales through different channels and optimizes them by linking payments with other aspects of hotel management like inventory management, marketing, and customer management. WinCloud’s intuitive POS system is designed to collect customer data like orders, bookings and other purchases from different points of sale. If a customer avails the use of laundry services, orders dinner room service, and makes use of the spa facility, it is not necessary to pay for each service individually. Instead, the POS module in the software will consolidate all charges for the specific room number, and the customer only needs to pay for everything during check-out.

Types of POS systems

Front desk POS: Equipped with a cash register, the transactions are typically recorded manually along with other sections like inventory, staff, stores, spas, restaurants, etc.

Mobile POS: With apps from mobile devices, it is possible to improve productivity by pairing with traditional POS in the hotel. Even though it might offer a few features, the package is not as comprehensive as a module offered by PMS software. This might be suitable for small restaurants or hotels.

Self-service POS: This system is usually an easy-to-use interface like a touchscreen computer to place orders and make payments easily. It can save time and make the task easier when there is a manpower shortage.

Cloud-based POS: As a SaaS product, cloud-based POS is the newest type in the market and is popular among hoteliers for the unmatched convenience they offer. Since they offer customization and monthly plans, they can save costs while offering a host of features other than POS in a complete property management software package.

Traditional versus cloud POS modules

There are obvious differences between traditional or legacy POS modules and cloud-based POS modules. The traditional point-of-sale setup might have software installed in the computer used at the front desk and server storage, but the day-to-day sales are manually recorded by the staff and require constant maintenance and upgrades. A cloud-based POS offers a variety of advantages to hotel owners and managers at different properties. Since it is based on a cloud, it can store all data in an online server and offer a higher level of security. Additionally, it is easy to pay as you use it on a monthly basis with a cloud PMS software that offers the POS module instead of the high investment required for an on-premises IT setup.

Key features of POS

Hotels can easily improve the efficiency of their daily operations by making use of intuitive property management system software like WinCloud. With the software handling all aspects of daily operations, it is easy to manage multiple properties, even in different locations, with a high level of efficiency and accuracy.

POS module of the software handles:

Payments: Hotel guests can use any payment mode and across different sales outlets for accommodation and services. This includes credit and debit cards, net banking, online wallets, checks, cash, etc. The software offers multiple payment options, handles bills and even adjusts the cost if a guest were to leave earlier than planned.

Tracking guest data: One of the biggest advantages of having a Hotel POS system is that it can handle multiple aspects of hotel management like tracking guest check-in and check-out, payments, reservations, cancellations and more. With a POS module, it is easy to improve operational efficiency and offer impeccable customer service. In fact, understanding customer preferences and improving service is the main target area for most PMS software upgrades.

Inventory: A POS module is useful for tracking stock levels of various essential goods as well as cleaning supplies and other products. Depending on the PMS software you use, it can also automatically reorder items that are low in stock or out of stock. The most common scenario is when the PMS software interfaces with a third-party inventory management solution to work seamlessly with POS for managing supplies.

Tracking employee performance: Even though the main focus of the POS module is to manage guests, it can also be used for tracking the log-in and log-out details of employees and monitoring their performance. Depending on the type of PMS used, it can also be used for automatically scheduling individuals for different tasks on different days.

Revenue management and reports: Since POS keeps track of revenue earned every day from guests and the expenses for stocking up on supplies, it can offer daily reports on the revenue streams across hotel branches. It is easy for managers to keep track of revenue and expenditure easily and also compare performance across locations.

Integration: While the POS module performs an important function, it offers the best advantage when it is linked with other management system modules like accounting and audit for ensuring a flow of information across necessary departments. Whether you are a small or large hotel business, you will benefit from a POS module that can improve accuracy, seamlessly merge all data and offer a lot of convenience. A cloud-based hotel management software like WinCloud can transform how you manage properties by offering not only POS but also a front office, inventory management, channel manager, accounts, and so much more.