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Any business that sells products to customers can make use of an EPoS system. The size of EPoS system that you get will depend on how big the business is, a very small organisation may not need a complete system.

Stand-alone EPoS systems
The average cost is around £5,000. For this five grand you will be gaining a terminal, software, printer and back-office network. These can easily be linked up to your website through XML or EDI links, so businesses with an internet shop and store can benefit. For businesses with more than one store this would be an advantage.

Software-based solutions
If you can use your own PC to bolt EPoS software onto it, then you should only be looking at a cost of £350. If you need additional software, a credit card reader, cash drawer etc then you can get these as a plug in.

EPoS/Accounting systems
For a system that integrates accounts, you will need to spend approximately £500. Additionally, the back office PC will need some personal software and you might need to buy more modules for extras such as Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), label printing or remote access. If you do not think that your organisation requires a whole off the shelf product then this option could be cheaper although you should ask the supplier to advise you on the best system for your needs.

Contract out EPoS to a third party specialist
This concept is relatively new in the UK. An Application Service Provider (ASP) will rent specialised software to you and provide a secure, internet-based link to your system as well as managing your system. The ASP will sort out any technical issues you have with the system. You will need to have a secure broadband connection to run EPoS this way.

Customised EPOS solutions
Consultants and software experts can tailor-make and design an EPOS solution and integrate it with existing hardware and software and also your web site. This will cost you over £10,000, however when shopping around you will be able to find a range of prices depending on supplier. For very large corporations like hotel chains and national shops, this is the best EPoS system.