What is a POS system?

A POS system is a point-of-sale system, which is commonly used in retail stores, restaurants and other businesses that accept orders from clients. The POS links one main computer to multiple checkout stations.

Many businesses use POS systems to control inventories. Items are deducted from inventory immediately when purchased. The POS system can also be used for analyzing sales data and changing purchasing levels if an item is not selling as well as expected. Barcode scanners, receipt printers and credit card readers can also be integrated into the POS system. POS data can be transferred to accounting systems to ease the accounts receivable and payable processes.