| p>A few thoughts on choosing a VAR - or Value | | | | - Have they installed the same POS system that they |
| Added Reseller to purchase that new point of sale | | | | want to sell to you, for anyone in your line of business |
| system. | | | | - or in other words, do they really know anything about |
| If you are going to be working with a local VAR, point | | | | your business. |
| of sale specialist or POS system dealer, it behooves | | | | - Can they provide references? (Make sure you call a |
| you to do the same due diligence you would before | | | | few.) |
| hiring a doctor or lawyer. That is to say, do your | | | | - How much training is included? (10 hours? 20 hours? |
| homework! The investment you make in your point of | | | | Do you have to prepay for blocks of time?) |
| sale system may well run into the tens of thousands | | | | - How many support hours are included and how |
| of dollars - not just in money, but in time setting it up, | | | | much does a support contract cost and what does it |
| training, support and getting it going. It would be nice to | | | | cover? Is it 24/7, 9am to 5pm? Is it on-site, or do they |
| be sure that the VAR you have chosen has the | | | | dial in to your computer, or is it just phone support? |
| appropriate point of sale experience and expertise to | | | | Take your time and research the point of sale product |
| make your POS installation successful. | | | | and the VAR thoroughly. Buying a POS system is kind |
| Some questions to ask prospective resellers: | | | | of like getting married - it is a long term commitment. In |
| - How long have they been installing point of sale | | | | fact, you may well be spending more time with your |
| systems? | | | | POS system than with your spouse. |
| - How many systems have they installed? | | | | It's best to make sure you are really compatible. |