POS systems: how to transform checkout into an omnichannel driver

Once limited to the role of a simple cash register, point-of-sale management has evolved significantly. Today, a POS (Point of Sale) system does more than just collect payments: it synchronizes inventory, centralizes customer data, connects online and offline channels, and has become a major driver of performance. 

In a context where the shopping experience must be smooth, fast, and consistent, choosing a modern POS can make the difference between a business that struggles and one that accelerates its growth. 

Better still, when combined with a PIM (Product Information Management) system, it ensures that product information is reliable and consistent across all touchpoints.

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What is a POS system today?

A point-of-sale (POS) system is a set of hardware and software tools used to manage commercial transactions. 

In concrete terms, this is the solution used when a customer pays for a product or service, but its functions go far beyond payment collection: inventory tracking, staff management, sales reports, integration with customer loyalty programs, and connection to digital channels.

Difference between POS and cash register

In the past, a POS was simply a cash register: a mechanical or electronic device that calculated amounts and printed receipts. 

Today, the POS has become a true digital platform. It can be installed on a fixed touchscreen cash register, a tablet, a smartphone, or even a self-service kiosk, and integrates with a company's entire ecosystem.

Difference between POS and ERP (front office vs. back office)

It is also important to distinguish between POS and ERP. POS acts as a front-office tool: it is closest to the customer and manages direct interactions related to sales. 

ERP, on the other hand, is a back-office tool: it centralizes resource management (accounting, purchasing, logistics). The two systems are complementary: the POS collects sales data in real time, which the ERP then uses to drive strategy and operations.

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How does a modern POS work?

A modern POS system is no longer limited to processing payments: it manages the entire purchasing journey, streamlines the customer experience, and feeds data into the company's digital ecosystem.

In-store purchasing process

When a customer selects a product, it is scanned and added to a virtual shopping cart. The POS automatically calculates the total, taking into account discounts, promotions, and taxes. 

The customer then chooses their payment method: cash, credit card, digital wallet, or contactless payment. Once the transaction is confirmed, the inventory is updated in real time, a receipt (paper or digital) is issued, and the information can be added to a loyalty program.

Different types of interfaces

The POS is no longer limited to a traditional cash register:

• Fixed touchscreen cash register: central to traditional brick-and-mortar stores;
• Self-service kiosk: promotes autonomy and reduces waiting time;
• Salesperson tablet: allows you to take payments directly on the sales floor or in the store;
• mPOS (mobile POS): installed on a smartphone or thin client, it is ideal for fast food outlets, events, or mobile businesses.

Integration with e-commerce and CRM

A POS system is most valuable when it is interconnected. When linked to an e-commerce site, it synchronizes inventory and prices in real time to avoid inconsistencies. When connected to CRM, it feeds customer history, improves personalization, and facilitates marketing campaigns. This integration ensures omnichannel continuity: customers enjoy the same experience and information whether they are shopping online or in-store.

The components of a POS

A POS combines hardware and software. On the hardware side, you will generally find:

• a touchscreen terminal or a computer;
• a barcode reader;
• a credit card reader or contactless terminal;
• a receipt printer;
• a cash drawer for cash payments.

On the software side, POS covers several functions: cashiering, inventory management, reporting, team monitoring, and loyalty programs. Modern solutions are open via API, facilitating their integration with ERP, PIM, CRM, and accounting systems. The POS thus becomes a true hub for connected commerce.

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POS and PIM

A POS becomes truly strategic when it is linked to a PIM Product Information Management) system. The POS manages the transaction, but it is the PIM ensures the consistency and reliability of the product data used during the sale.

In the fashion industry, PIM that the information displayed at the checkout or on a sales assistant's tablet is accurate: up-to-date prices, available sizes and colors, promotion management, etc. This prevents errors and boosts customer confidence.

In tourism, a PIM to centralize multilingual and multi-currency information. A connected POS thus benefits from content tailored to the local market, whether for booking a stay or purchasing an activity at a point of sale.

In B2B, where catalogs are often complex with prices that vary depending on the customer, PIM the distribution of clear and personalized information. The POS then relies on this reliable data to offer tailored commercial terms in real time.

In practice, PIM pricing and inventory errors, synchronizes promotions and launches more quickly, and feeds all channels (POS, e-commerce, marketplaces). Connected to the POS, it transforms sales into a consistent, omnichannel, frictionless experience.

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Conclusion

Today, the POS is no longer just a cash register, but a true omnichannel hub capable of centralizing transactions, synchronizing inventory, and enriching customer data. When combined with a PIM, it becomes a strategic lever: all product information is reliable, consistent, and immediately available across all channels, from physical stores to e-commerce sites and marketplaces.

This combination reduces pricing and inventory errors, speeds up launches and promotions, and provides a seamless, personalized customer experience. Whether in fashion, tourism, or B2B,PIM integrationPIM product information consistency and optimizes the management of complex catalogs.

By choosing a modern POS system interconnected with a PIM, companies transform every transaction into a driver of performance and competitiveness, promoting harmonious growth and an impeccable omnichannel customer experience. The POS then becomes much more than a payment tool: it is at the heart of the commercial and digital strategy.