Advanced POS Monitoring and Management Platform

Managing point of sale solutions is complex because of the vast array of options available. Are you using standalone units? Or how about iPad-based systems? Are you mobile-first and rely on mPOS? Or maybe you have a combination of all these. With Esper, you can mix and match, and then manage them from anywhere.

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Choosing the right POSManaging my POS

Choosing the right POS

POS systems for business use cases

The good news: Point of Sale (POS) systems, both traditional and Mobile Point of Sale (mPOS), are guaranteed to help you streamline the checkout process. With a wide range of form factors available from tablets to full units, the odds are high that you can find a solution for your needs.

The bad news: There is no one-size-fits-all solution. The variety available can be just as overwhelming as it is freeing. You’ll need to assess the hardware requirements, software features, and integration capabilities of each. Plus, you’ll need to pay extra attention to security as you’re dealing with sensitive payment information. And, unless you love chaos and bleeding money, you’re looking for a long-term investment, something built to last but flexible enough to iterate with you. These things don’t grow on trees.

Unfortunately, this is not a magic show where we pull your perfect POS out of a hat. But we can give you a little guidance to make it easier. Read on, and you’ll be collecting people’s money in no time!

Tablets

Pros
Incredibly versatile
Infinitely portable
Very cost-effective
Cons
May need extra peripherals to do everything needed
Smaller devices are easier to misplace or are often theft risks

Kiosks

Pros
Highly effective for single-use applications where a tablet won’t cut it
Purpose-driven
Cons
Difficult to repurpose
Expensive

Smartphones

Pros
Wide variety of hardware choices
Small, portable form factor
Rugged options
Cons
Easily lost, stolen, or damaged (for non-rugged)
May require more peripherals for full functionality

Is mPOS Right for Your Business?

Curious about mPOS? Of course you are! They’re sleek, they’re lightweight, they can even swivel. All the cool kids have an mPOS. But should you? The answer often comes down to your use case, budget, and long-term goals. Here is a quick list of the advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

  • It’s smaller:
    mPOS can be a smartphone, a tablet, or a standalone unit based on a smartphone form factor. Any of these are more compact than a big, bulky POS system.
  • Portability:
    ‍    Going to trade shows where you plan on selling goods? Take your mPOS. Want to set up shop on the sidewalk because it’s a nice day? Your mPOS has your back. Decide to close up your restaurant and buy a food truck instead? You won’t need to change your POS system.
  • It’s easy to use:
    ‍    You can use your smartphone, right? Then you can use an mPOS. In many cases, it’s just an app that runs on the device (though dedicated mPOS devices also exist!), so it’s intuitive. Plus, you won’t have to manage it yourself since the mPOS service provider will almost certainly have robust support options.
  • It’s secure:
    ‍    mPOS is more secure than a traditional POS system because it’s completely cloud-based. That means none of the data — credit card or customer information, for example — is stored locally. For a deeper look at mPOS security, check out this whitepaper.
  • It’s automated:
    ‍    No need to manually generate revenue reports, manage bank accounts, or the like. It’s all seamless and simple with an mPOS system.
  • Customers love it (and so will you):
    ‍    At this point, customers are very used to mPOS systems and many likely prefer it overall. With many mPOS systems, the customer’s email address and phone number are attached to their credit card, which makes digital receipts, returns, and customer history dead simple.

Disadvantages

  • Portable = breakable:
    Have you ever dropped an old-school POS and broken it? Probably not, because it’s largely stationary. An mPOS though? Drops happen. Better get a ruggedized case.
  • High cost to replace:
    ‍    What happens when you break that high-dollar mPOS tablet? You have to replace it. That can be costly depending on which model you’re using. While traditional POS systems are more expensive, they’re also far less likely to get damaged, making replacement cost more of a consideration for an mPOS system.
  • Support lifetime:
    There are plenty of old-school POS systems still in use today, but mPOS systems won’t have the same lifecycle. They’re not designed to stay in service indefinitely and have limited support lifetimes, so they’ll have to be replaced regularly for cybersecurity purposes.

Rugged devices are best for:

  • Durability:
    Rugged devices have the durability you wish hard shell tacos did.  While hard shell tacos can’t even be held without falling apart, rugged devices are purpose-built to withstand the harshest conditions, such as extreme temps, moisture, dust, and potential drops, in the toughest environments, like construction sites, manufacturing floors, and outdoor fieldwork.
  • Lower TCO in the long term:
    ‍    Rugged devices are often more expensive at first, but their durability can mean savings in the long run thanks to their reduced risk of damage and longer lifespans. It’s like a horror movie in reverse. The jump scare is up front, then it’s smooth sailing.
  • Extended battery life:
    ‍    If a device goes down and no one is around to see it, does it really go down? Yes, yes it does. That’s why rugged devices often come with a longer battery life so they can operate for extended periods in remote places where charging isn’t easily accessible. 

Consumer-grade devices in a rugged case are best for

  • Cost savings:
    ‍    There are cost savings to be reaped here, both in the short and long term. A rugged case is less expensive than a rugged device, making it cheaper up front, and the added protection makes the device more durable than an uncased device, reducing maintenance and replacement expenses.
  • Support lifetime:
    ‍    There are plenty of old-school POS systems still in use today, but mPOS systems won’t have the same lifecycle. They’re not designed to stay in service indefinitely and have limited support lifetimes, so they’ll have to be replaced regularly for cybersecurity purposes.

Consumer-grade devices are best for 

  • Lower initial costs:
    Consumer-grade devices tend to be a more budget-friendly choice. This is great for those with smaller spending power, but be aware the cost of damage or replacement could be greater in the long run.
  • Ease of use:
    ‍    No bulky or heavy cases here, just slim and lightweight devices. The user experience can be more mobile and carefree— unless, of course, you drop it.
  • Future-proofing:
    ‍    Consumer-grade devices are the favorite child in the device world. They bask in constant attention, enjoying frequent updates that keep them at the cutting edge of functionality and ahead of their rugged counterparts. 

Is mPOS Right for Your Business?

Curious about mPOS? Of course you are! They’re sleek, they’re lightweight, they can even swivel. All the cool kids have an mPOS. But should you? The answer often comes down to your use case, budget, and long-term goals. Here is a quick list of the advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

  • It’s smaller:
    mPOS can be a smartphone, a tablet, or a standalone unit based on a smartphone form factor. Any of these are more compact than a big, bulky POS system.
  • Portability:
    ‍    Going to trade shows where you plan on selling goods? Take your mPOS. Want to set up shop on the sidewalk because it’s a nice day? Your mPOS has your back. Decide to close up your restaurant and buy a food truck instead? You won’t need to change your POS system.
  • It’s easy to use:
    ‍    You can use your smartphone, right? Then you can use an mPOS. In many cases, it’s just an app that runs on the device (though dedicated mPOS devices also exist!), so it’s intuitive. Plus, you won’t have to manage it yourself since the mPOS service provider will almost certainly have robust support options.
  • It’s secure:
    ‍    mPOS is more secure than a traditional POS system because it’s completely cloud-based. That means none of the data — credit card or customer information, for example — is stored locally. For a deeper look at mPOS security, check out this whitepaper.
  • It’s automated:
    ‍    No need to manually generate revenue reports, manage bank accounts, or the like. It’s all seamless and simple with an mPOS system.
  • Customers love it (and so will you):
    ‍    At this point, customers are very used to mPOS systems and many likely prefer it overall. With many mPOS systems, the customer’s email address and phone number are attached to their credit card, which makes digital receipts, returns, and customer history dead simple.

Disadvantages

  • Portable = breakable:
    Have you ever dropped an old-school POS and broken it? Probably not, because it’s largely stationary. An mPOS though? Drops happen. Better get a ruggedized case.
  • High cost to replace:
    ‍    What happens when you break that high-dollar mPOS tablet? You have to replace it. That can be costly depending on which model you’re using. While traditional POS systems are more expensive, they’re also far less likely to get damaged, making replacement cost more of a consideration for an mPOS system.
  • Support lifetime:
    There are plenty of old-school POS systems still in use today, but mPOS systems won’t have the same lifecycle. They’re not designed to stay in service indefinitely and have limited support lifetimes, so they’ll have to be replaced regularly for cybersecurity purposes.

Rugged devices are best for:

  • Durability:
    Rugged devices have the durability you wish hard shell tacos did.  While hard shell tacos can’t even be held without falling apart, rugged devices are purpose-built to withstand the harshest conditions, such as extreme temps, moisture, dust, and potential drops, in the toughest environments, like construction sites, manufacturing floors, and outdoor fieldwork.
  • Lower TCO in the long term:
    ‍    Rugged devices are often more expensive at first, but their durability can mean savings in the long run thanks to their reduced risk of damage and longer lifespans. It’s like a horror movie in reverse. The jump scare is up front, then it’s smooth sailing.
  • Extended battery life:
    ‍    If a device goes down and no one is around to see it, does it really go down? Yes, yes it does. That’s why rugged devices often come with a longer battery life so they can operate for extended periods in remote places where charging isn’t easily accessible. 

Consumer-grade devices in a rugged case are best for

  • Cost savings:
    ‍    There are cost savings to be reaped here, both in the short and long term. A rugged case is less expensive than a rugged device, making it cheaper up front, and the added protection makes the device more durable than an uncased device, reducing maintenance and replacement expenses.
  • Support lifetime:
    ‍    There are plenty of old-school POS systems still in use today, but mPOS systems won’t have the same lifecycle. They’re not designed to stay in service indefinitely and have limited support lifetimes, so they’ll have to be replaced regularly for cybersecurity purposes.

Consumer-grade devices are best for 

  • Lower initial costs:
    Consumer-grade devices tend to be a more budget-friendly choice. This is great for those with smaller spending power, but be aware the cost of damage or replacement could be greater in the long run.
  • Ease of use:
    ‍    No bulky or heavy cases here, just slim and lightweight devices. The user experience can be more mobile and carefree— unless, of course, you drop it.
  • Future-proofing:
    ‍    Consumer-grade devices are the favorite child in the device world. They bask in constant attention, enjoying frequent updates that keep them at the cutting edge of functionality and ahead of their rugged counterparts. 

Tablets

Usage and portability
Tablets offer the ideal balance between functionality and portability. Their larger screens make it easier to view and use content and apps while still allowing staff to be agile.
Ideal applications
Due to their larger screens, tablets are often preferred for applications that require precise input via a stylus or touch, such as design, healthcare, or fieldwork.
Communication
Users can effectively use tablets for emails, messaging, and video conferencing. Voice calls may be less convenient due to their larger size.
Cost
Tablets offer a cost-effective alternative to smartphones. Quality tablets are often significantly more affordable than flagship smartphones with similar features. This makes tablets a smart way to cut expenses, particularly if you don't need cellular connectivity.
‍

Smartphones

Usage and portability
Smartphones are the most portable devices out there, making them great for on-the-go communication and quick access to information. Their small screens and limited functionality could make them less suitable for certain business tasks.
Ideal applications
Smartphones are better for applications that require mobility, augmented/virtual reality, or mobile payments.
Communication
Smartphones are perfect for efficient communication methods such as voice calls, text messages, emails, and video calls.
Cost
‍Small in size, potentially big in price. Smartphones can get pretty expensive thanks to their compact design and premium features like advanced cameras and facial recognition. These factors drive up production costs and result in higher price tags compared to tablets in many cases.

Smartphones

Usage and portability
Smartphones are the most portable devices out there, making them great for on-the-go communication and quick access to information. Their small screens and limited functionality could make them less suitable for certain business tasks.
Ideal applications
Smartphones are better for applications that require mobility, augmented/virtual reality, or mobile payments.
Communication
Smartphones are perfect for efficient communication methods such as voice calls, text messages, emails, and video calls.
Cost
Small in size, big in price. Smartphones can get pretty expensive thanks to their compact design and premium features like advanced cameras and facial recognition. These factors drive up production costs and result in higher price tags compared to tablets.

Tablets

Usage and portability
Tablets offer the ideal balance between functionality and portability. Their larger screens make it easier to view and use content and apps while still allowing staff be agile.
Ideal applications
Due to their larger screens, tablets are often preferred for applications that require precise input via a stylus or touch, such as design, healthcare, or fieldwork.
Communication
Users can effectively use tablets for emails, messaging, and video conferencing. Voice calls may be less convenient due to their larger size.
Cost
Tablets offer a cost-effective alternative to smartphones. Quality tablets are often significantly more affordable than flagship smartphones with similar features. This makes tablets a smart way to cut expenses, particularly if you don’t need cellular connectivity.

Shopping Considerations for POS Systems

Time to shop! Let’s be smart about this. You don’t go to the grocery store hungry, so don’t buy a POS system without reading this list of considerations. Our biggest advice: overthink it, this is important.

Build or buy?

Should you buy an all-in-one POS system or build your own? Buying is generally simpler, easier to scale, and more economical, but building gives you the full control to create and upgrade your POS the way you want. Are you loving what they’re selling, or do you want it your way? A true pickle.

Durability

POS systems are really put through the grind, and they don’t get a long bath and glass of wine at the end of the day. For your sanity, and your bank account, buy something reliable.

Security

From customer details to payment card numbers, POS systems are a hacker’s gold mine. Make sure your POS system properly complies with industry standards like PCI DSS to keep their shenanigans at bay.

Integration capabilities

Your POS needs to be a team player. Make sure it’s compatible with other essential tools like peripherals, especially printers, and software like inventory management or accounting systems. Group projects don’t have to be miserable.

Ease of use

POS is the sun the retail experience revolves around. Make it complicated and employee onboarding is longer, transactions are slower, and errors abound. Yuck.

Budget

Expand your thinking beyond price per unit. Factor in routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and other lifetime costs to determine the actual cost of what you’re buying. Otherwise, you’re in for some not so fun surprises.

Need More Guidance? Esper Can Help.

Our hardware experts make finding the right hardware easy! Esper has guided thousands of customers to develop efficient, scalable device fleets that meet their needs. With our robust partner catalog and vast hardware support we can always find a solution.

Supported hardware catalog

Our platform supports 1,400+ devices, both off-the-shelf and custom. AOSP, GMS, and beyond.
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Hardware without limitations

Off the shelf or full custom? You have the freedom to choose what’s right for
your business.
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Partner ecosystem

Our robust partner catalog means we can give you a fast track to your ideal device fleet.
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Managing My POS

Management considerations for POS systems
An MDM (Mobile Device Management) solution is a critical tool for enhancing both the security and efficiency of your POS system. There’s a big wide world of MDMs out there for you to choose from, so it’s easy to get it wrong. Here are some key considerations to avoid common pitfalls:

Hardware flexibility

An inflexible MDM can be a huge roadblock to growing your business. Make sure you don’t get locked into specific hardware or vendors. A good MDM lets you spread your wings, not clip them.

Security

Just as The Wall kept out the wildlings, your security measures keep out all sorts of riff-raff. Look for PCI DSS compliance, encryption, remote wipe capabilities, and the ability to enforce security policies to properly protect your POS system. And yes, this would make you Jon Snow. Congrats!

Control over updates

Spontaneous software updates can really kill the vibe. If you don’t want them disrupting business, you need to be in control. Make sure your MDM can deliver the tools to manage and deploy app, OS, and security updates exactly when and where you want.

Expertise

Would you go to the dentist to fix your broken arm? Obviously not. So why would you pick a vendor that doesn’t have expertise in your use case? Make sure you’re a match for the long term before you sign that dotted line.

Remote debugging capabilities

Why travel for work when you don’t have to? The ability to remotely log, diagnose, and resolve issues keeps you off red eyes and on top of any issues that come up.

Provisioning method

Life is hard enough, so don’t make it more difficult with a needlessly complicated provisioning process. Rumor has it streamlined provisioning is how frowns get turned upside down.

Advanced Device Management for POS Systems

With Esper, device management is as efficient as it gets. Automated and user-friendly, the perfection here is our robust, flexible infrastructure that lets you command your fleet from anywhere, reduce your OpEx, and scale your POS fleet with ease. Esper can really take you places if you let it. And you should let it.
Control
Efficiency
Security

Streamlined device grouping

Manage all your POS systems in a single place. One POS, groups of POS systems, or all of them.

Update at will

Test updates on a single POS, then stage rollouts to groups based on custom rules.

Enhanced visibility

Monitor POS vitals like status, health, and usage at a glance. Set custom alerts for automated monitoring.

Device kitting made simple

Your IT teams can deploy dozens of POS in minutes instead of hours. Maybe even go home early.

Troubleshoot from anywhere

Remotely control and debug your POS system in real-time from anywhere in the world.

Extended hardware life

Deliver engaging, modern Android experiences on your existing hardware — even if it’s x86.

Eliminate device tampering

Lock devices down with hardened kiosk mode so users only access what you want.

Protect system integrity

Control when apps get added, updated, and removed — on the fly, at any time. As often as you need.

Secure POS deployments

Esper is validated by PCI DSS and certified from ISO27001 to SOC-II, ensuring your revenue-critical devices operate safely.
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Elevated Device Management

Hardware support takes new retail program to market in 10 weeks

Esper partnered with a leading POS solution provider to support Parker’s in quickly rolling out their updated loyalty program. Their new hardware all came preloaded with Esper’s custom operating system, Esper Foundation, making implementation a fast, and essentially touchless process.

Read the case study

Optimizing back and front-of-house operations for restaurants

Esper is an indispensable tool for managing our devices. It allows us to effectively manage our devices both individually and as a cohesive unit. When deciding on hardware for our fleet, our first priority is ensuring it’s compatible with the Esper platform.

Sejun Park
Sejun Park
Head of Hardware at Snackpass
Read the case study

Extending the life of x86 POS hardware for national QSR chain

To support team members and customer experiences across our POS, tablets, and other devices, we needed a solution that worked for our next generation enterprise Android apps. Using Esper Foundation for Android (x86), we were able to keep our current hardware including peripherals. Esper was a true partner. Working with them allowed us to move fast, save money, and now we can make strategic decisions about what hardware we want to use.

‍

Mas Yoshida
Mas Yoshida
Director, Next Gen Restaurant Technology, Taco Bell
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The State of Device Management 2024
Staying a step ahead of the pack comes naturally to you. If you’re looking for the inside track to understanding how forward-thinking businesses are prepping for the next generation of mission-critical device use cases, this is it. The State of Device Management Report is the key to understanding the evolution of device management for the next generation of hardware. With these insights, you’ll be ready to take on what comes next — regardless of where you are right now.
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For partners across the value chain, from distributors to solution providers, offering a seamless solution like Esper device management alongside devices isn’t just an added benefit — it’s a strategic differentiator.

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