Retail fuel stations have become more than that. Some combine the features of a traditional station with a convenience store, while others go a step further and add the operations of a casual dining operator. Each part has its own software needs, and some retail fuel stations still use a different software solution to manage them. This is expensive and time-consuming. However, there are solutions that incorporate all of them into one system that does it all.
Each activity of a retail fuel station has its necessities. Different pricing structures for fuel, the need for a safety mechanism at the pump, the inventory of the convenience store, the kitchen and menu management, all these have their own managerial requests that need to be met for an efficient activity and a consistent financial data. The use of multiple systems is not only inefficient, but can also cause technical problems, like integration issues that may occur between them.
Informational technology has evolved exponentially in the latest years, and can integrate all the management needs of a retail fuel station, thus cutting through the clutter and offering real control over all operations. What’s even more helpful is the fact that such an integrated management system can be customized to any need a station might have. POS systems can be integrated with both the fueling pump and the back office, and create a single management solution through which all operations take place.
An integrated management system can be customized to operate all the station’s devices, such as payment terminals or dispensers, while managing all the station’s back office activities like attendant management, inventory and shifts. It is an efficient way to monitor and keep everything under control, consuming less time, eliminating technological glitches, and reducing the overall management cost.
The newest management systems for fuel stations are cloud based. This means that all the data is stored on secure servers, which considerably reduces the chance of losing data. Aside from this, cloud solutions don’t require a heavy and complex infrastructure, reducing the costs even more. Companies that offer such cloud based fuel station management solutions also offer round the clock customer support, eliminating as much as possible the time between the occurrence of a problem and the time it is fixed.
The fact that such a system can be highly customizable makes it perfect for fuel stations of any sizes. A great benefit is also the fact that it uses the existing equipment, which means no additional costs. It also allows remote online access and monitoring, and the best of these management systems can do so on any browser.
There are no limitations to what a management system can do for fuel station. It can generate reports on any and all data, from C-store management to fuel. It enables complete control over the operations and simplifies the work of all involved, allowing them to concentrate on the business.
For more information about c-store management and fuel station automation: http://www.orpak.com/solutions/foresite-fuel-station-automation-and-convenience-store-management/
