Whether you’re running a retail shop, supermarket, salon, or restaurant, choosing the right Point-of-Sale (POS) system is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your business.
With so many options in the market, how do you know what to look for? At PAB Merchants, we help businesses across Kenya choose the right POS system and here’s the ultimate buyer’s checklist to guide your decision.
1. Is It Designed for Your Industry?
Choose a POS system that understands your business.
- Retail: Size, color, batch management, barcoding
- Restaurants: Table management, kitchen printing, split billing
- Spas/Salons: Appointment scheduling, commission tracking
- Hotels: Property management, booking engines
RanceLab POS, offered by PAB Merchants, comes with industry-specific modules so you’re never stuck with generic tools.
2. Cloud-Based or Desktop?
Decide whether you need:
- Cloud POS – access data from anywhere, ideal for chains or owners on the go
- Desktop POS – locally installed, great for offline operations
RanceLab supports both modes, giving you flexibility based on your internet reliability and business model.
3. Does It Integrate with Other Tools?
A good POS should easily connect to:
- Accounting tools like Tally or QuickBooks
- Online delivery platforms (e.g., UberEats, Glovo)
- Loyalty or CRM platforms
- Payment gateways
RanceLab comes with built-in integrations and open APIs for easy customization.
4. How Is Inventory Handled?
Efficient inventory management is critical:
- Barcode scanning
- Stock alerts
- Expiry and batch tracking
- Multi-location inventory control
With RanceLab, you get real-time inventory management that simplifies stock control across outlets.
5. Is It Easy to Use?
The best POS system should be:
- Intuitive for staff
- Easy to set up
- Quick to train new employees on
RanceLab’s interface is user-friendly, and PAB Merchants provides local onboarding and support.
6. Is It Secure?
Your POS should:
- Prevent unauthorized access
- Log activity by user
- Support restricted roles (e.g., cashier vs. admin)
RanceLab includes granular user permissions and audit logs for fraud prevention.
7. Is Support Readily Available?
You’ll need help during setup, training, and maintenance. Make sure your POS vendor:
- Offers phone and email support
- Has knowledge of local business environments
- Provides updates and backups
PAB Merchants provides ongoing support, both online and onsite, with access to RanceLab’s global team.
8. Is It Within Your Budget?
Look at the total cost of ownership:
- Licensing or subscription fees
- Setup and training
- Maintenance or upgrades
RanceLab offers affordable packages tailored to small and medium businesses in Kenya.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right POS system can save you time, reduce losses, and unlock business growth. With RanceLab POS, distributed by PAB Merchants, you get a solution that’s powerful, affordable, and built for your industry.
Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) – SME Tech Support Resources
A go-to resource for Kenyan businesses adopting tech solutions — great for staying informed on trends, training, and digital tools like POS systems.
RanceLab Buyer’s Guide to POS Systems
Understand the full capabilities of RanceLab POS and ERP, including features tailored for retail, restaurants, and service businesses.
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