POS Hardware:  

The Casio QT–8000 comes with a large 15–inch touch screen monitor with splash–proof protection from water spills and wet hands. The package also includes a bar code scanner, cash drawer, thermal printer and magnetic card reader. We added a label printer for $290 to easily and quickly print product labels and barcodes.

POS Software:  

Microsoft is well known for functionality and user–friendliness—Point of Sale meets this same criteria. The Microsoft interface is easy to learn and use for experts and computer novices alike. You can customize each of the data fields to meet the needs of your business.

Microsoft Point of Sale provides real–time reports on various aspects of your business including returns, sales over a certain period and reports of your most productive employees. You can also set your own criteria for reports so you’ll have the information you need to succeed in retail.

The program is password protected and you can set up multiple tiers of security. This allows certain employees to access certain parts of the program while others cannot. Microsoft Point of Sale will also track commission and employees’ hours.

Functionality/Ease of Use:  

This system is easy to use with a comprehensive interface. Because the software and hardware are sold as a package, there is no need to worry about compatibility issues.

The software has a training mode that will train new employees quickly and comfortably.

Price/Value:  

The entire system is available though Best Buy for Business for $3289. At the time of this review, the package also included Microsoft Small Business Accounting, FREE.

Training/Support:  

The Casio QT–8000 with Microsoft Point of Sale comes with a 3–year manufacturer’s warranty. Geek Squad provides Service and installation through three different plans (each one is sold separately):

Level I provides POS system set up but leaves the bulk of the data entry and system configuration up to you. Level II offers everything in Level I and they will configure the software. Level III offers everything from I and II; additionally, they will load your inventory and provide two hours of training. You can get more details on their website.

Microsoft and Casio provide a software–based point of sale solution that is basic yet has all of the components to operate a small business. However, for an additional $100 you can purchase the Gold Award package, which includes a Dell computer and QuickBooks POS.