Mobile phones are ubiquitous in this day and age. Accepting credit cards with your phone is quickly becoming the method of choice for businesses and entrepreneurs on the move. More and more websites are going mobile, as well. With new technical advancements in security and regulatory compliance measures, consumers can swipe or buy online without fear of stolen identities or fraudulent purchases. Web based point of sale systems and e-commerce solutions are gaining popularity every day. Giving your customers the option to shop online from their phone or computer can help to expand your business beyond the traditional. This trend will continue to see a huge growth over the next decade with 50 percent of all European consumers purchasing items and services with a mobile device by 2020, according to Visa. However, with so many choices, how do you know what is the right solution for your business? Understanding how the different e-commerce options work is the first step in making an educated decision.
Mobile Phone Swiper
This POS (Point of Sale) option allows your business to accept credit or debit cards anywhere. Sell your products at trade shows, flea markets or on the street and provide the security and peace of mind that a highly secured transaction offers. Using a card swiper on your Smartphone will make processing purchases quick, easy and efficient. Most card readers include apps that allow you to manage reports, view and manipulate inventory lists and keep track of customers. Bring your brick-and-mortar operation with you no matter where you’re at.
Wireless Terminals
Although a wireless terminal isn’t a mobile phone, it is quickly becoming the preferred method for accepting credit or debit cards. As long as there is a Wi-Fi connection available, you can take a wireless terminal anywhere. The transactions are processed quicker than traditional terminals, and you can find out almost instantaneously whether or not a card is denied. Also, companies such as Visa and MasterCard charge processing fees based on how the card information was obtained. Still using that old, landlocked terminal? You may be paying higher fees because of it. Upgrading now will lower costs and ensure happier customers.
Mobile Website
The advantages of a mobile website are numerous and ever-increasing. No matter what your company specializes in, providing customers with a virtual storefront can increase sales and customer satisfaction. Give your valued customers incentives to shop online or visit your brick-and-mortar location by offering coupons and daily deals. Reach a larger audience and gain a bigger following by utilizing the power of social media and multi-media marketing.
The future of customer interaction is Web-based. From mobile card readers to mobile websites, businesses must make the leap to this new technology or risk being left behind. The advantages are numerous. Expanded reach and quicker more efficient processing ensure that customers stay satisfied with your company. The inclusion of cloud-based technology gives your business the ability to expand and grow without having to completely upgrade the infrastructure. With new advances in security and compliance regulations, making the leap to mobile commerce is a no-brainer.