A live mobile application allows employees to use tablets and smartphones to access the customer data anywhere. Being able to help a customer with readily accessible information anywhere improves service and builds an incredible amount of customer loyalty. Having access to all the customers’ equipment information at the poolside helps the technician troubleshoot issues, look up past services, as well as equipment warranty information.
A specific feature that pool and spa retailers should look for when evaluating POS systems is taking payment on-site with a mobile application to eliminate billing in the office. Ensure the mobile application is offered in real time avoid the need to sync data later. These apps allow employees to create work orders, and apply inventory parts and payments easily in the field. It allows employees to view the work schedule for the day and receive any important notifications from the office.
Out with the old, in with the new
As pool and spa businesses explore POS solution to replace QuickBooks POS, selecting an industry-specific POS solution will allow these businesses to quickly integrate e-commerce, mobile retail functionality, mobile payment processing, vendor integrations, integrated pool water testing, and so much more.
Keep in mind, customers will face the challenge of moving data. Some companies have an import feature that will allow customers to bring over existing customer and inventory information. It can assist customers in getting the data out of QuickBooks.
Customers will face a learning curve with any new software. Some POS offer monthly group onboardings and individual training to get customers up and running. For instance, some vendors have a variety of training videos, documentation, and live webinars for all customers.
Now is the time to move beyond generic POS systems and get a more powerful, industry-specific POS solution instead.
Author
Rachael Pritz has been active in the pool industry for more than 20 years, which has provided her with an all-encompassing expertise in the trade. She worked at a local pool store while pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Pittsburgh, Pa. With her technical skills and industry knowledge, she joined the launch of RB Retail & Service Solutions in Pittsburgh in 2003. For more information, visit rbretailandservicesolutions.com/pool-and-spa/.
