Lenovo Thinkpad T14s Gen 6 review: getting down to business
Original Source: https://www.creativebloq.com/tech/laptops/lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-review-getting-down-to-business
A premium Snapdragon laptop with a lot to like and some glaring flaws.
Archive for year: 2025
L*OSMONAUTA: Inspiring Editorial Design and Cultural Insights
Original Source: https://abduzeedo.com/losmonauta-inspiring-editorial-design-and-cultural-insights
L*OSMONAUTA: Inspiring Editorial Design and Cultural Insights
abduzeedo
03/19 — 2025
Explore L*OSMONAUTA’s editorial design, a cultural magazine by OSMO design. Dive into design, tech, research, and lifestyle content.
OSMO design presents L*OSMONAUTA, an annual magazine dedicated to exploration and cultural dissemination. This publication invites readers and contributors to connect ideas, spark reflections, and broaden perspectives. It serves as a curated selection of inspirations and content, spanning design, technology, research, and lifestyle. The OSMO team gathers this content throughout the year, showcasing their internal repository.
L*OSMONAUTA emerges from the fusion of individual curiosity and collective knowledge, creating an archive of ideas and innovative viewpoints. The design studio views itself as a shared space where every member can expand their horizons. Team members build their own universe of references, sources, and interests, which they share with one another. L*OSMONAUTA is the result of these journeys, bringing their internal culture beyond the studio walls.
The latest edition, issue 0004, introduces new features to the magazine. Alongside curated articles with references to their original sources, it includes exclusive interviews with prominent figures who have made a meaningful impact in their fields.
This year’s interviewees include Tyler Riewer, Creative Director at Charity: Water; Superpunto, a UX Content Studio; Ben Terrett, CEO of Public Digital; and Florencia Andreola & Azzurra Muzzonigro, Architects. These conversations explore the thoughts of the interviewees, highlighting the inspiring potential of their ideas. Some articles also feature personal reflections from the OSMO team, providing a unique interpretative key to the magazine’s content selection.
Daniele Morganti designed the cover of this edition, contributing his interpretation of L*OSMONAUTA through a unique illustration.
L*OSMONAUTA is available for free upon request by contacting OSMO directly or downloading the digital version from www.osmonauta.space. Readers can also visit the studio for a coffee and pick up a printed copy in person.
The publication showcases editorial design artifacts, demonstrating a blend of creativity and thoughtful curation. Through its design and content, L*OSMONAUTA invites readers to immerse themselves in a journey of discovery and knowledge.
To explore this unique journey, you can request a copy or learn more at OSMO design ‘s website.
Editorial design artifacts
Getting Started with Monday.com: A Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Original Source: https://www.hongkiat.com/blog/getting-started-with-monday-com-setup-guide/
Getting started with Monday.com is easier than you might think. This platform helps you organize tasks and collaborate with your team in one place.
In this post, you’ll learn how to create an account, set up your first board, and discover key features that make your project management smoother.
Let’s get started.
Create Your Monday.com Account
To get started, you’ll need an account. It only takes a moment to sign up, and you can do it using your email address or an existing Google account.
Visit monday.com.
Click the “Sign Up” or “Get Started” button.
Choose how you want to register (email or Google account).
Fill in your details and verify your email address if prompted.
Once you’re in, Monday.com may ask you a few quick questions about your role or team size. This info helps personalize your workspace.
Feel free to skip or fill them out as you see fit.
Set Up a New Board
Once your account is ready, the next step is to create a board. Boards are where you’ll organize tasks, track deadlines, and collaborate with your team.
From the left sidebar, click “+” > “Board” > “New Board”.
Name your board something descriptive (e.g., “Marketing Campaign” or “Website Redesign”).
Choose whether you want it to be Main (visible to everyone), Private, or Shareable (for external guests).
Click “Create Board” to finish up.
That’s it! You’ve created your very first board in Monday.com. You can now start adding tasks and customizing your board to match your workflow.
Add and Customize Columns
Columns help you track the essential details of each task. They can handle everything from deadlines to who’s assigned to the work.
Adding and customizing columns is straightforward:
Open your board and click the “+” icon at the top of any existing column.
Select the column type you need (e.g., Status, Date, Person, or Text).
Give your column a descriptive name, like “Due Date” or “Assigned To.”
Drag and drop columns to rearrange them.
Below is a quick reference for common column types:
Column Type
Use Case
Status
Track if tasks are Pending, In Progress, or Done
Person
Assign tasks to a team member
Date
Set deadlines or schedule milestones
Text
Provide notes or additional details
Invite Team Members
Collaboration is a big part of Monday.com. To get the most out of your board, invite your teammates so everyone can stay aligned on tasks and deadlines.
Click on the “Invite” button at the top right of your board. [invite button]
Enter the email addresses of the people you want to invite.
Select their permission level (Viewer, Editor, or Admin).
Send the invitation, and your team members can start collaborating right away.
Keep in mind that every person you invite will need to create or log in to their own Monday.com account to access the board. Once they join, they can view and update tasks, add comments, and more.
Use Key Features
Monday.com offers several powerful features to help you manage projects more efficiently. Here are three that many teams find useful from the start:
Automations: Set up rules that run in the background – like notifying Slack channels when tasks move to “Done.” Explore Automations to speed up your workflow.
Integrations: Connect Monday.com with tools like Google Calendar, Slack, or Trello. Learn about Integrations and keep everything in sync.
Dashboards: Get a bird’s-eye view of your workload, timelines, and progress. Dashboards Overview shows you how to build custom reports.
By exploring these features, you’ll see how Monday.com can save you time and keep your team in sync on every task. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find what works best for your workflow.
How Monday.com Compares to Other Platforms
Want to see how Monday.com measures up in terms of features, pricing, and collaboration? Below is a side-by-side comparison with ClickUp and Airtable. Each platform excels in different ways, so choose the one that fits your team’s style.
Feature
Monday.com
ClickUp
Airtable
Main Strength
Highly visual boards and workflows
Unified workspace with customizable views
Flexible, spreadsheet-like databases
Pricing
Free trial; tiered plans for different features
Free plan available; paid plans for advanced tools
Free plan with limited features; upgraded tiers for more storage and collaboration
Integrations
Slack, Google Workspace, Trello, and more
Slack, Zoom, Google Drive, GitHub, and others
Google Drive, Slack, Zapier, plus various extensions
Collaboration
Real-time boards, tagging, automation
Document sharing, chat, customizable notifications
Shared “bases” with real-time editing and commenting
Best For
Teams that want a flexible visual approach
Organizations looking for an all-in-one project hub
Groups who need a hybrid of spreadsheets and database functionality
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free plan?
Monday.com does not have a permanent free plan, but it offers a free trial period. You can test out the core features before deciding on a paid tier.
Can I create multiple boards?
Yes. You can create as many boards as your plan allows. Each board can be customized for different projects or teams.
What about mobile access?
Monday.com has mobile apps for both iOS and Android. You can manage tasks, update boards, and receive notifications on the go.
How do I manage permissions?
You can set different access levels (Viewer, Editor, Admin) for each user. This way, you control who can make changes to boards and tasks.
Wrapping Up
Getting Started with Monday.com doesn’t have to be complicated. With an account, a well-structured board, and a few core features like Automations, Integrations, and Dashboards, you’ll soon have a more organized way of tackling projects.
As you continue exploring, don’t be afraid to adjust columns, experiment with different board types, and invite more team members. Over time, you’ll find the setup that best suits your workflow.
The post Getting Started with Monday.com: A Step-by-Step Setup Guide appeared first on Hongkiat.
Making a Browser Based Game With Vanilla JS and CSS
Original Source: https://www.sitepoint.com/browser-game-with-vanilla-js-and-css/?utm_source=rss
Learn how to build a flag guessing game using pure JavaScript and CSS without any other frameworks or libraries.
Continue reading
Making a Browser Based Game With Vanilla JS and CSS
on SitePoint.
Breadcrumbs Are Dead in Web Design
Original Source: https://webdesignerdepot.com/breadcrumbs-are-dead-in-web-design/
Breadcrumbs, once a staple in web design, have become obsolete in today’s non-linear, context-driven web, where dynamic and personalized navigation systems take precedence. Modern navigation focuses on intelligent, search-first, and adaptive solutions that better cater to user needs and expectations.
The Death of Google Search: Is the Search Engine on Its Last Legs?
Original Source: https://webdesignerdepot.com/the-death-of-google-search-is-the-search-engine-on-its-last-legs/
Google Search is increasingly dominated by excessive ads and AI-driven results, making it harder for users to find organic, relevant content. As a result, the search engine is losing its original value, with many turning to social media and alternative platforms for discovery.
Replicating CSS Object-Fit in WebGL: Optimized Techniques for Image Scaling and Positioning
Original Source: https://tympanus.net/codrops/2025/03/11/replicating-css-object-fit-in-webgl/
Explore optimized methods to achieve responsive image scaling and positioning in WebGL, similar to the CSS object-fit: cover behavior.
Should I Switch POS Systems?
Original Source: https://ecommerce-platforms.com/articles/should-i-switch-pos-systems
Should I switch POS systems? Yes—if it’s slowing you down, costing you money, or making sales harder.
If transactions are lagging, fees are eating into profits, or it doesn’t integrate with your business tools, upgrading can save you time and boost revenue.
The right POS should make payments fast, easy, and seamless—not frustrate you.
Here’s when to switch, what to look for, and how to upgrade without disrupting your business.
Signs You Need to Switch Your POS System
Your POS system should make your life easier, not harder. If it’s costing you time, money, or customers, it’s a liability—not a tool.
Here are the biggest red flags that scream it’s time for an upgrade:
1. Slow Transactions & Crashes
If your POS lags, freezes, or shuts down during peak hours, it’s driving customers away.
74% of shoppers say they’ll leave a store if the checkout process takes too long. (Source: Statista)
Even a five-second delay at checkout can lead to higher cart abandonment rates in retail stores and restaurants.
A modern POS should process transactions instantly, even when handling multiple payment types or high-volume sales. If your system struggles during rush hours, it’s not built for growth.
A good POS should: Offer offline mode so transactions go through even if the internet drops.
2. High Processing Fees
Transaction fees are unavoidable, but some POS providers overcharge with hidden costs for:
Credit/debit card transactions
Refunds & chargebacks
Using third-party payment processors
Subscription fees for extra features
If your POS charges more than 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction, you’re likely overpaying.
Example: Some POS providers advertise low monthly fees but increase transaction fees behind the scenes. Over time, this adds up—especially if you process thousands of transactions monthly.
A good POS should: Offer transparent pricing with no surprise fees.
3. Limited Payment Options
Customers want flexibility in how they pay. If your POS doesn’t support:
Apple Pay & Google Pay
Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) (e.g., Klarna, Afterpay)
Contactless & mobile payments
Gift cards & store credit
You’re losing sales—60% of shoppers expect contactless payments. (Source: Square)
Example: A coffee shop in NYC switched POS systems after realizing 40% of their customers preferred tap-to-pay—which their old system didn’t support. Their sales increased 18% just by upgrading.
A good POS should: Accept all major payment methods, including mobile wallets and financing options.
4. No Real-Time Inventory Tracking
Inventory should update automatically when an item is sold—whether online or in-store.
Red flags that your POS is failing you:
You constantly oversell items that are out of stock.
You’re manually counting inventory at the end of the day.
Online and in-store inventory don’t sync, causing order issues.
A good POS automatically adjusts stock levels in real time, preventing overselling and saving you hours of manual tracking.
Example: A clothing boutique switched POS systems after realizing their online store was still selling items that were already sold out in-store. The upgrade eliminated inventory errors and reduced refund requests by 35%.
A good POS should: Have real-time syncing across all sales channels.
5. Poor Customer Support
When your POS crashes in the middle of a busy shift, can you get immediate help?
Warning signs of bad support:
Long wait times or no 24/7 assistance.
Unhelpful chatbot responses instead of real humans.
Limited support on weekends or holidays.
Example: A restaurant owner’s POS crashed on a Saturday night, losing hundreds of dollars in sales because their provider’s support team was unavailable until Monday.
A good POS should: Offer 24/7 live support, especially if you run a high-volume business.
6. Lack of Integrations
A POS should do more than process payments—it should integrate with:
Accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero)
CRM & email marketing tools (e.g., HubSpot, Mailchimp)
Ecommerce platforms (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce)
Loyalty & rewards programs
Red flags:
Manually transferring sales data into your accounting software.
No way to track customer spending habits for marketing.
Inability to sync online and in-store purchases.
Example: A retailer switched POS systems after realizing their old setup didn’t integrate with Shopify. The upgrade increased online sales by 22% because customers could now shop in-store and redeem loyalty rewards online.
A good POS should: Sync seamlessly with your business tools to automate tasks.
7. Hard to Use
If your POS requires weeks of training, it’s too complicated.
Signs your POS isn’t user-friendly:
New employees struggle to learn it.
The system has too many steps for basic tasks.
You need constant support just to process refunds or reports.
Example: A bakery switched from an outdated POS to Square because new hires were taking 2+ weeks to learn the old system. With the new POS, employees were trained in a single shift—saving time and improving efficiency.
A good POS should: Be so intuitive that employees can learn it in under an hour.
Benefits of Upgrading Your POS System
Switching POS systems isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s about boosting profits, improving efficiency, and making daily operations smoother. A modern system can help you process sales faster, cut costs, and give you better control over your business.
Here’s how upgrading can transform your sales process:
1. Faster Checkouts
Long lines and slow transactions kill sales. If customers have to wait too long, they’ll leave—or worse, never return.
A modern POS processes transactions instantly, even during peak hours. Some systems also offer self-checkout, mobile POS, and tap-to-pay features, reducing wait times and keeping lines moving.
Faster service = happier customers = more sales.
2. Lower Fees
POS fees can add up fast. Some providers charge hidden fees for transactions, refunds, or integrations, cutting into your profits.
A better POS system could reduce your transaction fees by 10-30% per year, depending on your sales volume. Some systems also allow you to choose different payment processors, helping you find the lowest rates.
Lower costs mean more profit per sale.
3. Smarter Reporting & Analytics
Guesswork isn’t a business strategy. The best POS systems offer real-time insights on:
Best-selling products
Peak sales hours
Customer purchase habits
Profit margins
With data-driven decisions, you can stock the right products, schedule employees more effectively, and adjust pricing strategies to maximize revenue.
Know exactly what’s working—and what’s not.
4. Easy Inventory Management
Manually tracking inventory wastes time and leads to costly mistakes. A modern POS automatically updates stock levels whenever a sale is made, ensuring you never oversell or run out of popular items.
Many systems also send low-stock alerts, generate purchase orders for suppliers, and sync inventory across multiple locations or sales channels.
Less manual work, fewer stockouts, and smoother operations.
5. Omnichannel Capabilities
Customers shop everywhere—your POS should keep up. A modern system syncs all sales channels into one dashboard, so you can:
Sell in-store, online, and via social media seamlessly
Offer buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) options
Manage customer orders across different platforms
For example, if someone buys an item online, they should be able to return it in-store without hassle. A good POS system makes that easy.
One system, all sales channels—no headaches.
How to Choose the Right POS System
Not all POS systems are created equal. The wrong choice can cost you time, money, and lost sales—but the right one can streamline operations, reduce costs, and help you grow.
Here’s what to look for when picking a POS system that actually works for your business:
1. Transaction Fees
POS providers charge fees in different ways—some have low monthly costs but high transaction fees, while others charge more upfront but offer lower per-sale fees.
What to watch for:
Processing fees: Some systems take a percentage of every sale—make sure you compare rates.
Hidden fees: Some providers charge for refunds, chargebacks, or even accessing certain reports.
Locked-in payment processors: Some POS systems force you to use their processor, even if it’s more expensive.
Example: A small coffee shop switched POS systems after realizing their old provider charged 3.5% per transaction—switching to a 2.6% per transaction system saved them thousands per year.
A good POS should: Offer transparent pricing with competitive rates and no surprise fees.
2. Hardware Compatibility
Does the POS system work with the hardware you already own, or do you need to buy expensive new equipment?
What to check:
Tablets & card readers – Can you use your current iPad or Android device?
Barcode scanners & receipt printers – Will your existing equipment work, or do you need new models?
Mobile POS options – Can you take orders and payments on the go?
Example: A clothing store wanted a mobile checkout option for pop-up events. Their old POS required bulky hardware, so they switched to a system that let them process sales from an iPhone.
A good POS should: Work with your existing hardware or offer affordable, flexible equipment options.
3. Scalability
Your POS should grow with your business—not hold you back. If you plan to expand, your POS needs to handle more locations, more sales, and more complexity.
Questions to ask:
Can it support multiple store locations?
Does it work for both in-person and online sales?
Can it handle high-volume transactions without slowing down?
Will it let you add more payment options (BNPL, subscriptions, etc.) as your business evolves?
Example: A bakery started with one location but expanded to three. Their old POS only worked for single-store operations, so they upgraded to a system that synced all locations under one account.
A good POS should: Scale with your business without requiring a complete system overhaul.
4. User-Friendliness
If your employees struggle to learn the system, it’s slowing down your business. A good POS should be so intuitive that new hires can start using it within minutes, not weeks.
Signs your POS is too complicated:
Training takes too long—employees keep making mistakes.
It takes too many steps to process a simple transaction.
You have to constantly call customer support just to do basic tasks.
Example: A restaurant switched POS systems after realizing their old system took servers two weeks to learn. With their new, more intuitive POS, employees were trained in under an hour.
A good POS should: Be simple, intuitive, and require minimal training.
5. Support & Security
A POS system isn’t just a cash register—it’s handling sensitive customer and business data. You need strong security features and reliable support in case something goes wrong.
What to look for:
24/7 customer support – Can you get help anytime, or are you stuck waiting until business hours?
Data encryption & fraud protection – Is customer payment information safe?
Cloud backups – If the system crashes, can you recover your data?
Example: A retail store’s POS crashed on Black Friday—their provider didn’t offer weekend support, and they lost thousands in sales. After switching to a POS with 24/7 support, they never had that issue again.
A good POS should: Have strong security, cloud backups, and 24/7 human support.
Best POS Systems to Consider
Not all POS systems are created equal. The best one for you depends on your business type, budget, and specific needs. Some systems are built for brick-and-mortar stores, while others seamlessly integrate with eCommerce platforms.
Here are the top-rated POS systems in 2025 and why they stand out:
🏆 Shopify POS – Best for eCommerce + Retail
If you sell online and in-store, Shopify POS is the best all-in-one solution. It syncs seamlessly with Shopify’s eCommerce platform, so you can manage online and in-person sales from a single dashboard.
🚀 Why Shopify POS is the top choice:
Omnichannel selling – Syncs online, in-store, and mobile sales effortlessly.
Built-in eCommerce features – Manage orders, inventory, and customer data across multiple sales channels.
Seamless checkout – Accepts credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later).
Smart inventory tracking – Automatically updates stock across all locations.
Loyalty & marketing tools – Send promotions, offer discounts, and track repeat customers.
Best for: Retailers, online businesses, and brands looking to scale both online and offline.
Pricing: Shopify POS Lite is included in all Shopify plans, while Shopify POS Pro ($89/month per location) adds advanced features like in-store pickup and staff permissions.
Bottom line: If you run an online store and a physical store, Shopify POS is the best way to unify both under one system.
Square – Best for Small Businesses
Square is one of the easiest and most affordable POS systems, making it ideal for startups, cafes, salons, and small retail shops. It comes with a free plan, and the hardware is affordable and simple to set up.
Why Square stands out:
No monthly fees for the basic plan—just pay for transactions.
Built-in payment processing with flat 2.6% + 10¢ per transaction.
Free mobile POS app – Accept payments from a smartphone or tablet.
Works with third-party tools like QuickBooks and Mailchimp.
Best for: Small retail stores, coffee shops, and service-based businesses.
Pricing: Free plan available; paid plans start at $29/month for additional features.
Bottom line: Affordable, simple, and great for small businesses that don’t need advanced features.
Clover – Best for Restaurants & Service Businesses
Clover is popular among restaurants, cafes, and service-based businesses because of its customizable interface and flexible hardware options.
Why Clover works well:
Customizable POS setup – Choose from different hardware options, including handheld devices for tableside orders.
Built-in employee management – Set permissions, track hours, and monitor performance.
Loyalty programs & gift cards – Keep customers coming back.
Subscription & recurring billing support – Great for memberships or appointment-based businesses.
Best for: Full-service restaurants, coffee shops, and appointment-based businesses like salons.
Pricing: Plans start at $14.95/month, plus hardware costs.
Bottom line: Great for restaurants, bars, and service-based businesses that need customizable POS solutions.
Lightspeed – Best for Advanced Inventory Tracking
Lightspeed is a powerful POS system designed for businesses that need advanced inventory management—especially multi-location retailers and large-scale operations.
Why Lightspeed is unique:
Multi-location inventory tracking – Perfect for retail chains or businesses with multiple warehouses.
Detailed analytics & reporting – Get deep insights into sales trends and customer behavior.
B2B & wholesale support – Great for businesses that sell to both consumers and other businesses.
Built-in eCommerce tools – Expand online sales effortlessly.
Best for: High-volume retailers, sporting goods stores, and businesses with complex inventory needs.
Pricing: Starts at $69/month for the basic plan.
Bottom line: Best for businesses that need detailed inventory control and data-driven decision-making.
Toast – Best for Full-Service Restaurants
Toast is built specifically for restaurants, offering industry-specific tools like tableside ordering, kitchen display systems, and menu customization.
Why Toast dominates in restaurants:
Tableside ordering & payments – Waitstaff can take orders and process payments on handheld devices.
Menu customization & modifications – Easily update dishes, pricing, and specials.
Kitchen display system (KDS) – Streamlines communication between front and back of house.
Inventory tracking for food costs – Helps manage ingredients and reduce waste.
Best for: Full-service restaurants, bars, and cafes that need a specialized POS solution.
Pricing: Starts at $0/month (with higher transaction fees) or $69/month for more advanced plans.
Bottom line: Best for restaurants that need a POS designed for food service operations.
Which POS System Is Right for You?
For eCommerce + retail: 🏆 Shopify POS (Best all-in-one solution for online + in-person sales)
For small businesses: 📍 Square (Simple, affordable, and easy to use)
For restaurants & service businesses: 🍽️ Clover (Customizable and great for hospitality)
For advanced inventory tracking: ⚡ Lightspeed (Ideal for large retailers and wholesalers)
For full-service restaurants: 🍕 Toast (Industry-leading POS for food service)
Each POS system has different pricing, features, and integrations, so choose based on your specific business needs.
How to Switch POS Systems Without Disrupting Your Business
Upgrading your POS can feel overwhelming, but a smooth transition is possible with the right plan.
The key is to prepare in advance, train your team, and test the new system before fully switching over. A poorly managed transition can lead to lost sales, frustrated employees, and customer confusion.
Follow these steps to avoid downtime and keep operations running smoothly during the switch.
1. Migrate Data Carefully
Your POS system holds critical business data, including:
Customer information (names, emails, purchase history)
Inventory records (stock levels, product details, pricing)
Sales history (previous transactions, reports, analytics)
Before switching, export all data from your current system and ensure it’s compatible with your new POS. Many POS providers offer free data migration services—take advantage of this to minimize errors.
What to do:
Check if your new POS can import data automatically or if manual entry is required.
Back up all data before the transition to prevent accidental loss.
Run test imports to verify that product listings, prices, and customer accounts transfer correctly.
Switching POS systems without properly migrating data can result in missing inventory records, lost customer information, and incorrect sales history, leading to major disruptions.
2. Train Employees Early
A new POS is only effective if your employees know how to use it confidently. Poor training leads to slower checkouts, mistakes, and customer frustration.
Instead of waiting until the last minute, train employees before the official switch. Many businesses run a side-by-side training period, where employees use both the old and new POS for practice.
What to do:
Schedule hands-on training sessions so staff can learn the basics.
Assign a few employees as POS experts who can assist others during the transition.
Create quick-reference guides with step-by-step instructions for common tasks like processing refunds, applying discounts, and checking inventory.
Test real-world scenarios (e.g., split payments, returns, or loyalty program redemptions) so employees feel prepared.
A well-trained staff ensures that the transition is seamless and customers don’t experience delays or mistakes at checkout.
3. Run a Test Period
Before going live, process a few test transactions to catch any potential issues. This helps identify errors in payment processing, inventory syncing, or receipt formatting before they impact real customers.
What to do:
Run a full day’s worth of transactions in test mode to spot potential issues.
Test different payment methods (credit cards, Apple Pay, cash, gift cards) to confirm everything works.
Verify that inventory updates in real time when sales are made.
Check that integrations with accounting software, eCommerce platforms, and loyalty programs function correctly.
This test phase reduces the risk of errors and ensures your system is fully operational before making the switch permanent.
4. Communicate with Customers
A POS system change might affect how customers interact with your business, especially if you’re introducing:
A new loyalty program or rewards system.
Updated receipt formats (email vs. paper).
New self-checkout or mobile payment options.
To prevent confusion, let customers know in advance if anything is changing. This is especially important for businesses that rely on repeat customers and memberships.
What to do:
Send email or SMS updates about any changes to payment methods or loyalty programs.
Train employees to inform customers at checkout about any new features or processes.
Offer a short grace period for loyalty points or rewards that might be affected.
Clear communication helps customers adapt quickly and prevents frustration at checkout.
Final Thoughts
Switching POS systems doesn’t have to be disruptive—as long as you plan ahead.
Migrate data carefully to avoid losing customer or sales records.
Train employees early so they’re confident using the new system.
Run a test period to catch issues before going live.
Keep customers informed so there are no surprises.
A well-executed transition improves efficiency, reduces costs, and enhances customer experience—making the switch well worth it.
Final Thoughts
If your POS system is slow, expensive, or making it harder to run your business, it’s not just an inconvenience—it’s costing you money and customers.
A bad POS can lead to lost sales, frustrated employees, and wasted time, while the right system can make daily operations faster, smoother, and more profitable.
Upgrading your POS is one of the best investments you can make. A modern system should be fast, affordable, and seamlessly integrate with your business tools, allowing you to:
Process transactions quickly so customers aren’t stuck waiting in line.
Reduce unnecessary fees and put more money back into your business.
Sync inventory and sales in real-time, avoiding stock issues and overselling.
Improve customer experience with flexible payment options, loyalty programs, and easy returns.
Scale with your business, whether you’re expanding to multiple locations or selling online.
Your POS should work for you, not against you. If you’ve been struggling with outdated software, high fees, or limited features, switching to a better system will help you run your business more efficiently, keep customers happy, and ultimately increase sales.
The sooner you switch, the sooner you’ll see the benefits.
The post Should I Switch POS Systems? appeared first on Ecommerce Platforms.
How to Migrate to Shopify POS Without Losing Data or Sales
Original Source: https://ecommerce-platforms.com/articles/how-to-migrate-to-shopify-pos
Switching to a new POS system can feel overwhelming. I’ve been in eCommerce for over a decade, and I’ve seen countless businesses struggle with POS migrations—inventory mismatches, lost customer data, and payment processing nightmares.
But here’s the truth: Migrating to Shopify POS doesn’t have to be a headache. If you follow the right steps, you can move your business over smoothly, keep your sales running, and even improve your operations.
This guide will walk you through exactly how to migrate to Shopify POS—without breaking your business in the process.
Why Migrate to Shopify POS?
If you’re reading this, you’re probably frustrated with your current POS system. Maybe it’s outdated, too expensive, or just doesn’t sync well with your online store. I’ve worked with countless business owners who struggle with:
Inventory mismatches – Selling a product in-store, only to find out it was already sold online.
Slow checkouts – Long wait times at the register due to an outdated system.
Lack of integration – Having to manually update stock and customer details across platforms.
High transaction fees – Losing profit on every sale due to expensive payment processing.
If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Most traditional POS systems weren’t built to seamlessly connect with eCommerce stores. That’s where Shopify POS changes the game.
Key Benefits of Shopify POS
All-in-One System
Tired of juggling multiple platforms for online and in-store sales? Shopify POS syncs everything in real time, so your business runs smoothly without extra work.
With Shopify POS, you get:
A centralized system that tracks both online and in-store orders.
Automatic inventory updates—no more manual stock adjustments.
Seamless customer profile integration across all sales channels.
If a customer buys something online, your store inventory updates immediately. If someone purchases in-store, your Shopify website reflects the change instantly. No more overselling or frustrating stock issues.
Better Inventory Management
Running out of stock? Shopify POS prevents overselling and keeps your inventory accurate at all times.
What Shopify POS does for inventory:
Real-time stock syncing across online and retail locations.
Multi-location inventory tracking, so you can move products between stores effortlessly.
Low-stock alerts, so you always know when it’s time to reorder.
If you operate multiple stores, Shopify POS lets you transfer inventory between locations in just a few clicks. No more manual spreadsheets or stock confusion.
Lower Payment Processing Fees
If you’re using a third-party POS, chances are you’re paying extra fees on every sale. Shopify POS integrates with Shopify Payments, which can lower your transaction costs significantly.
Compare the fees:
Square & Lightspeed: 2.6% – 2.9% per transaction.
Shopify Payments: As low as 2.4% per transaction (depending on your Shopify plan).
By switching to Shopify Payments, you eliminate third-party processing fees and simplify your payment system. Plus, you get faster payouts directly to your bank account.
Seamless Customer Experience
Today’s customers expect a frictionless shopping experience, whether they buy online or in-store. Shopify POS ensures that all customer interactions are connected, making returns, exchanges, and loyalty rewards effortless.
With Shopify POS, you can:
Track purchase history across both online and in-store transactions.
Offer personalized discounts based on previous shopping behavior.
Accept in-store returns for online purchases (and vice versa).
For example, if a customer buys a pair of shoes online but wants to exchange them in-store, Shopify POS automatically pulls up their order history, allowing you to process the exchange in seconds.
If your current POS system is holding you back, it’s time to switch. Shopify POS eliminates manual work, lowers fees, and creates a seamless customer experience.
No more inventory headaches
Faster checkout process
Lower payment processing costs
A unified system for online & in-store sales
Migrate to Shopify POS Without Losing Data or Sales – Step by Step
Let’s go over exactly how to migrate to Shopify POS the right way.
Step 1: Choose the Right Shopify POS Plan
Before you migrate, you need to pick the right Shopify POS plan based on your business size, sales volume, and operational needs. Shopify offers two versions of its POS system: Shopify POS Lite and Shopify POS Pro.
While both allow you to process in-store sales and accept payments, the features and capabilities differ significantly.
If you’re running a small retail store, pop-up shop, or occasional in-person sales events, Shopify POS Lite may be enough. But if you need real-time inventory tracking, multiple store locations, and advanced reporting, then Shopify POS Pro is a better fit.
Let’s break down both options:
Shopify POS Lite (Free with Shopify Plans)
✔️ Included with all Shopify subscription plans (Basic, Shopify, Advanced, and Plus).
✔️ Basic in-store sales tools, including barcode scanning and product lookups.
✔️ Works well for pop-ups, small retail setups, and businesses with simple in-store operations.
Shopify POS Lite is a great option for businesses that primarily sell online but occasionally do in-person sales at markets, trade shows, or pop-up events.
It gives you the ability to accept card payments, manage inventory, and process sales without requiring a separate POS system. However, if you run a full-fledged brick-and-mortar store, this version may lack the advanced features needed to scale your operations.
Shopify POS Pro ($89/month per location)
✔️ Advanced inventory tracking – Monitor stock levels in real time across multiple locations.
✔️ Multi-location support – Perfect for businesses with multiple retail stores or warehouses.
✔️ In-store pickup & local delivery – Offer customers flexible shopping options.
✔️ Staff roles & permissions – Control employee access based on their role.
Shopify POS Pro is designed for retailers who need a fully integrated, data-driven system. It allows you to track inventory across multiple stores, manage in-store pickup orders, and provide seamless customer service by syncing online and offline sales.
Additionally, the staff management feature helps ensure that employees only have access to the tools and data relevant to their role.
If you operate a physical store with high sales volume, Shopify POS Pro is definitely worth the investment.
The ability to track sales trends, monitor performance, and adjust stock levels in real time gives you a competitive edge and prevents common retail challenges like overselling or stock discrepancies.
Which Plan Should You Choose?
If you’re just starting out and your physical sales are minimal, Shopify POS Lite can be a good starting point.
But if you’re serious about scaling your retail operations, offering in-store pickup, multi-location management, and advanced analytics, then POS Pro is the way to go.
Pro Tip: Shopify POS Pro is charged per location, so if you have multiple stores, factor that into your costs when deciding on a plan.
Once you’ve selected the right Shopify POS plan for your business, the next step is to export your data and prepare for the migration process. Let’s go over that next.
Step 2: Export Data from Your Current POS System
One of the biggest mistakes I see businesses make during a POS migration? Not backing up their data properly before switching systems.
Losing product listings, customer records, or sales history can cause major disruptions, leading to inventory issues, unhappy customers, and revenue loss.
To avoid this, you need to export all critical business data from your existing POS system before making the switch. This ensures that nothing gets lost during the transition and allows you to easily import everything into Shopify POS.
Here’s what you need to export:
Products & Inventory – Includes SKUs, product names, descriptions, pricing, and stock levels. This is essential to keep your inventory accurate when switching systems.
Customers – Names, email addresses, phone numbers, and purchase history. Retaining customer data allows for seamless loyalty programs, personalized marketing, and accurate order tracking.
Sales History – Past transactions, order numbers, and payment records. While Shopify POS doesn’t allow direct sales history imports, keeping a record ensures you have access to past transactions if needed.
Gift Cards & Discounts – If you offer store credit or run promotions, ensure these are accounted for so customers don’t lose their balances.
If your current POS system allows you to export this data in CSV format, that’s ideal—since Shopify POS supports CSV uploads for easy migration.
How to Export Data from Common POS Systems
Each POS system has a different method for exporting data. Here’s how to do it for some of the most common platforms:
Square: Go to Reports > Sales Summary > Export CSV to download transaction data. For inventory, use Items > Actions > Export Library.
Lightspeed: Use the Inventory Manager to download a product list. For customer and sales data, navigate to Reports > Export Data.
Clover: Access the Transactions Export Tool in your Clover Dashboard to download sales records. Inventory can be exported from the Inventory App.
Vend: Navigate to Products > Export All to download inventory data. Customer and sales reports can be exported from the Reporting section.
If your POS system isn’t listed here, check your provider’s support documentation or contact their customer service for guidance on exporting data.
What to Do After Exporting Your Data
Once you’ve successfully exported everything, don’t rush into uploading it to Shopify just yet. Take the time to:
Review and clean up your data – Look for duplicates, outdated information, and errors. Ensuring accuracy before importing will save you time later.
Save multiple backup copies – Store your exported files on an external drive, cloud storage, and a local device in case something goes wrong.
Verify exported formats – Shopify POS works best with CSV files, so check that your data is properly formatted for a smooth import.
A clean, accurate data transfer is key to making the transition to Shopify POS as smooth as possible. Once your data is backed up and organized, you’re ready for the next step—importing everything into Shopify POS.
Step 3: Import Your Data into Shopify POS
Once you’ve exported all your data from your previous POS system, it’s time to import everything into Shopify POS. This step is crucial—errors here can lead to missing products, inaccurate inventory counts, and customer profile issues.
Before importing, double-check that your files are formatted correctly. Shopify supports CSV file uploads, so make sure your product, inventory, and customer data are structured properly. If needed, use Shopify’s sample CSV templates to clean up your data before uploading.
1. Import Products & Inventory
Your inventory is the backbone of your store, so this needs to be 100% accurate when migrating. Shopify allows bulk product imports via CSV, making it easy to upload everything at once.
How to import products into Shopify:
Go to Shopify Admin > Products > Import.
Upload your CSV product file and review the data before submitting.
Shopify will process the file and add your products to the store.
Pro Tip: Always double-check SKU numbers, pricing, and inventory counts before finalizing the import. If there are errors in your product file, they can cause stock discrepancies and pricing issues down the line.
2. Transfer Customer Data
Instead of manually entering each customer one by one, use Shopify’s bulk customer import tool to save time.
How to import customer data:
Go to Shopify Admin > Customers > Import customers.
Upload your CSV file containing customer names, emails, and purchase history.
Shopify will automatically create customer profiles based on the imported data.
This step is crucial if you offer loyalty programs, customer discounts, or personalized marketing. Keeping past purchase data allows you to deliver a seamless experience for returning customers.
3. Migrate Sales & Transaction History
Shopify POS does not allow direct imports of past transactions, but there are workarounds to retain historical data for reporting and customer service purposes.
How to handle old sales records:
Manually enter past orders for high-value or recent transactions.
Keep old POS data stored externally for reporting and tax purposes.
Use a third-party app like Xporter Data Export to sync historical sales data.
If you need access to past sales trends and analytics, consider keeping your old POS system active in a limited capacity or exporting reports before shutting it down.
Step 4: Set Up Your Shopify POS System
With your data successfully imported, it’s time to configure Shopify POS to match your business needs.
1. Connect Shopify POS to Your Store
First, you need to install the Shopify POS app on your preferred device. Shopify POS works best on iPads, tablets, and mobile devices, but you can also use it on desktop systems with compatible hardware.
How to set up Shopify POS:
Download the Shopify POS app from the App Store or Google Play.
Log in using your Shopify credentials.
The system will sync with your Shopify store, pulling in products, inventory, and customer data automatically.
2. Set Up Your Payment Methods
Shopify Payments is the default payment processor, but you can also add alternative payment options depending on your business model.
Available payment methods in Shopify POS:
Shopify Payments (credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay)
PayPal
Manual payments (cash, bank transfers)
Third-party gateways like Stripe or Square
If you process a high volume of transactions, compare transaction fees to see which provider offers the best rates for your business.
3. Sync Inventory Across Locations
If you operate multiple stores, you need to assign inventory correctly to each location.
How to manage inventory locations in Shopify:
Go to Shopify Admin > Locations.
Add all physical store locations.
Ensure that each product has the correct stock levels assigned to each store.
Now, whenever a product is sold in-store or online, Shopify automatically adjusts the inventory in real time, preventing overselling and stock discrepancies.
4. Test Transactions Before Going Live
Before you fully launch Shopify POS, run a few test transactions to make sure everything is working correctly.
Key things to check:
Process a test sale using Shopify POS.
Refund a transaction to confirm return policies work properly.
Check inventory updates to ensure stock levels adjust in real time.
If you notice any errors, fix them now before your store goes live to avoid issues with real customers.
Step 5: Train Your Staff on Shopify POS
Switching to a new POS system means your employees will need training to handle sales, refunds, and inventory management effectively.
Key areas to train your staff on:
Processing sales & refunds – How to handle transactions smoothly.
Using discounts & promo codes – Applying customer incentives at checkout.
Managing customer profiles – Searching purchase history and issuing rewards.
Inventory checks & stock updates – Ensuring products are available in the right locations.
Shopify offers video tutorials within the POS dashboard, making it easy for employees to learn the system quickly. If you run a busy retail store, consider holding a hands-on training session before going live.
Step 6: Post-Migration Testing & Troubleshooting
Once everything is set up, don’t rush into full operations just yet. Even if the migration process went smoothly, there’s always a chance that small errors could cause big problems down the line. Before you officially switch over, take a few days to test Shopify POS in a controlled environment to ensure that everything works as expected.
Skipping this step can lead to inventory discrepancies, payment failures, or missing customer data, which can frustrate both your team and your customers. A few days of careful testing now can prevent major operational headaches later.
Common Issues to Check For:
Missing customer data – Some profiles may not transfer perfectly. Check for duplicates or incomplete records.
Inventory mismatches – Run a full stock audit to verify that Shopify’s inventory matches your actual stock levels.
Payment processing errors – Test different payment methods (credit cards, cash, and digital wallets) to ensure seamless transactions.
If any issues come up, fix them before fully switching over. A smooth transition ensures that customers won’t experience any disruptions, and your team will be confident using the new system.
Once testing is complete, you’re officially ready to start selling with Shopify POS.
Final Thoughts
If your current POS system is holding you back, it’s time to make a change.
Whether you’re struggling with inventory mismatches, slow checkouts, high transaction fees, or disconnected online and in-store sales, Shopify POS solves these problems by bringing everything into one seamless system.
For retailers, efficiency is everything. A disorganized POS system doesn’t just slow down operations—it can lead to lost sales, frustrated customers, and unnecessary costs.
Shopify POS helps you streamline your entire business, making it easier to manage inventory, track customer data, and process transactions without the usual headaches.
The post How to Migrate to Shopify POS Without Losing Data or Sales appeared first on Ecommerce Platforms.
10 Best AI Code Review Tools and How They Work
Original Source: https://www.sitepoint.com/best-ai-code-review-tools-for-developers/?utm_source=rss
Discover the top 10 AI code review tools for 2025, including GitHub Copilot, CodeScene, and PullReview. Learn how these tools use machine learning and NLP to automate bug detection, optimize performance, and improve code quality.
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