Advantages of Current Pos System
Autor: Ling-yu Chen • March 26, 2016 • Coursework • 372 Words (2 Pages) • 984 Views
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- Advantages of Current POS System
- Current POS system runs on a low cost, low maintenance Microsoft DOS system, which provides system stability, and ease of operation.
- In-house developers can provide customized applications specifically for each store to keep up with local market needs.
- IT infrastructure is easily managed, with a centralized applications department that handles software updates and fixes from one location. Thus operational expenses are well below other market competitors, allowing Zara to utilize funding in other business areas.
- Information security and safety risk is low since the POS system is not on a permanent network. Financial and customer data can remain secure.
- Disadvantages of Current POS System
- With the current DOS system, both hardware and software support is greatly limited. Software engineers and hardware manufacturers will be difficult to find and/or replace, which will put the company at risk if engineers and hardware providers seize to exist.
- Current system relies on modem connectivity to transmit information to and from each store, which lengthens communication time between management and between each stores. Without a permanent network, in-store inventory information are only provided at the end of each day, not visible by other stores, causing delays with urgent store to store replenishments.
- Current POS relies heavily on hardware and human control, where each in store inventory is managed by physical counts conducted by store employees, where inventory accuracy risk is high (i.e. misplaced items in store, theft, reading wrong information, etc.)
- Recommendations
- Develop/upgrade POS using a more modern operating system (i.e. Microsoft Windows, Unix, etc.), which can provide a wider range of application development, and be compatible by modern day hardware technology (i.e. in-house “Apps” compatible with android / IOS tablets)
- Install a permanent closed network infrastructure (VPN) within Zara and all of its stores, providing inventory visibility from each store, share financial, inventory, and various business / marketing information, and provide in-house ordering system between each store to shorten replenishment time. Firewall protection will help secure this permanent network.
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