Businesses with high customer levels and those which sell a large number of goods will benefit from an EPoS system. The bigger the company the more sophisticated the EPoS system should be, but it may not be essential for smaller organisations to invest in multifaceted technology.

Stand-alone EPoS systems
?5000 is the average cost of one of these systems. For this five grand you will be gaining a terminal, software, printer and back-office network. Solutions like this often have XML or EDI links for connecting with your website or back-office systems, making it easy for online businesses to connect with their physical stores. This would also benefit companies with more than one retail shop, for example.

Software-based solutions
If you have a PC that could run an EPoS system then you can get additional software for approximately ?350. If you need additional software, a credit card reader, cash drawer etc then you can get these as a plug in.

EPoS/Accounting systems
The average cost for these systems is around ?500 per terminal. If you need to boost your back office system you can also add on electronic funds transfer software and label printing for example. If you do not think that your organisation requires a whole off the shelf product then this option could be cheaper although you should ask the supplier to advise you on the best system for your needs.

Contract out EPoS to a third party specialist
This has only just been introduced to UK. An Application Service Provider (ASP) will rent specialised software to you and provide a secure, internet-based link to your system as well as managing your system. The ASP will sort out any technical issues you have with the system. You will need to have a secure broadband connection to run EPoS this way.

Customised EPOS solutions
Consultants and software experts can tailor-make and design an EPOS solution and integrate it with existing hardware and software and also your web site. You will be looking to pay ?10,000 or more for this type of service but and prices can vary widely depending on your own company’s needs. This is the best EPoS system for large retailers and hospitality outlets like department stores, hotel chains etc.