MICROS vs Helcim

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Our analysts compared MICROS vs Helcim based on data from our 400+ point analysis of POS Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

MICROS Software Tool
Helcim Software Tool

Product Basics

MICROS is a robust POS software catering to the complexities of hospitality and retail businesses. Its feature set tackles inventory management, order processing, table service, employee scheduling, and even self-service kiosks. While its comprehensive nature suits large chains and complex operations, its modularity allows scaling down for smaller establishments. MICROS boasts of industry-specific features like table splitting, menu customization, and loyalty programs, enhancing guest experience and driving repeat business. Users praise its reliability and security, crucial for high-volume transactions. However, its learning curve can be steeper than simpler alternatives, and its pricing reflects its feature richness, often requiring per-user or per-terminal subscriptions.

Pros:
  • Reliable & Secure
  • Industry-Specific Features
  • Scalable & Modular
  • Strong Reporting
  • Improves Guest Experience
Cons:
  • Steep Learning Curve
  • Higher Pricing Point
  • Complex Interface
  • Limited Customization
  • Frequent Updates
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Helcim offers a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system geared towards small businesses across various industries. It equips users with tools to accept payments, manage inventory, and track customer data. Notably, Helcim caters to businesses seeking flexibility, with its POS accessible on various devices like tablets and smartphones. This portability, coupled with features like omnichannel inventory management and customer loyalty programs, positions Helcim well for businesses looking to streamline operations and boost customer engagement. Pricing-wise, Helcim adopts a transparent, tiered approach based on transaction volume, making it budget-friendly for startups and scaling businesses alike. However, compared to competitors, its feature set might be less extensive for complex retail needs. Overall, Helcim provides a solid POS solution for businesses prioritizing affordability, mobility, and ease of use.

Pros
  • Affordable pricing
  • Mobile-friendly interface
  • Easy to use and set up
  • Omnichannel inventory management
  • Customer loyalty program
Cons
  • Limited features for complex needs
  • Customer support could be improved
  • Not ideal for high-volume businesses
  • Integration with third-party apps might be limited
  • Lacks some advanced reporting features
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Chromebook
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On-Premise
Mobile
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Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
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Videos
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Email
Phone
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FAQ
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Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
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FAQ
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Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support

Product Insights

  • Streamlined Operations: MICROS centralizes key tasks like order processing, inventory management, and employee scheduling, eliminating manual processes and saving time. Imagine a single platform managing everything from table reservations to kitchen orders, freeing up staff for better customer service.
  • Enhanced Guest Experience: From split bills to customized menus and loyalty programs, MICROS empowers you to cater to individual preferences. Picture tableside ordering with tablets, dietary restrictions flagged automatically, and reward points accumulating with every purchase, fostering a more personalized and enjoyable dining experience.
  • Data-Driven Insights: MICROS provides comprehensive reporting on sales, inventory, labor costs, and customer behavior. Imagine detailed dashboards revealing peak hours, popular menu items, and staff performance, enabling you to make informed decisions about staffing, pricing, and marketing strategies.
  • Scalability and Flexibility: Whether you're a small cafe or a multi-location restaurant chain, MICROS adapts to your needs. Picture a system that grows with your business, supporting expansion with additional terminals, features, and even integrations with online ordering platforms or delivery services.
  • Improved Efficiency and Accuracy: MICROS minimizes errors with features like barcode scanning and automated order routing. Imagine fewer order mix-ups, faster service times, and reduced food waste, leading to increased profitability and happier customers.
  • Enhanced Security and Compliance: MICROS prioritizes data security with features like encryption and access controls. Imagine peace of mind knowing your customer information and financial transactions are protected, ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
  • Integration with Third-Party Systems: MICROS seamlessly connects with popular payment gateways, loyalty programs, and accounting software. Imagine a single system streamlining your entire operation, from taking orders to managing finances, boosting efficiency and reducing manual work.
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  • Run a Smoother Business: Simplify daily tasks with an intuitive interface and mobile accessibility, manage your business from anywhere.
  • Budget-Friendly Choice: Benefit from transparent, tiered pricing that adapts to your business size, making it affordable for startups and growing ventures.
  • Boost Customer Satisfaction: Foster loyalty with built-in features like loyalty programs and omnichannel inventory, ensuring a seamless shopping experience.
  • Inventory Made Easy: Gain real-time insights into stock levels across all channels, prevent stockouts, and optimize purchasing decisions.
  • Scale with Confidence: Accommodate your business's evolving needs with a POS system that adapts and grows alongside you.
  • Data-Driven Decisions: Generate comprehensive reports to track sales performance, identify trends, and make informed business decisions.
  • Secure Transactions: Enjoy peace of mind with industry-standard security measures that protect your customer data and financial information.
  • Integrate with Ease: Connect Helcim with your existing business tools and services for a streamlined workflow.
  • Dedicated Support: Get help when you need it with responsive customer support available via phone, email, and live chat.
  • Focus on What Matters: Spend less time managing your POS and more time focusing on growing your business.
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  • Point-of-Sale (POS) Terminal: The heart of MICROS, handling transactions, order entry, payment processing, and customer management. It runs on PC-based hardware, touchscreen tablets, or handheld devices.
  • Inventory Management: Track stock levels, automate purchase orders, generate alerts for low stock, and create inventory reports for analysis.
  • Menu Management: Create and customize menus with ease, including pricing, descriptions, modifiers, and images. Set up different menus for different day parts, seasons, or events.
  • Kitchen Display System (KDS): Send orders directly to kitchen displays for efficient preparation. Track order status, prioritize tasks, and streamline workflow.
  • Table Management: Manage floor plans, assign servers, track table status, and handle split bills and table transfers seamlessly.
  • Employee Scheduling: Create and manage employee schedules, track attendance, and calculate labor costs.
  • Reporting and Analytics: Access comprehensive reports on sales, labor, inventory, customer behavior, and more. Gain insights to make informed business decisions.
  • Payment Processing: Integrate with various payment gateways to accept credit cards, debit cards, mobile payments, and more.
  • Loyalty Programs: Create and manage loyalty programs to reward repeat customers and encourage customer engagement.
  • Self-Service Kiosks: Empower customers to place orders and pay independently, reducing wait times and enhancing convenience.
  • Online Ordering: Accept orders through your website or mobile app, expanding your reach and offering convenience to customers.
  • Cloud-Based or On-Premise Deployment: Choose the deployment option that best suits your needs, depending on your IT infrastructure and preferences.
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  • Omnichannel Inventory Management: Track stock levels across physical and online stores, prevent stockouts, and optimize purchasing decisions.
  • Mobile POS App: Run your business from anywhere with a POS accessible on smartphones and tablets.
  • Virtual Terminal: Accept payments online without a physical store through a secure web interface.
  • Invoicing and Billing: Send professional invoices, accept payments, and track customer payment history.
  • Payment Processing: Accept various payment methods including credit cards, debit cards, ACH transfers, and contactless payments.
  • Customer Management: Store customer information, create profiles, and track purchase history to personalize shopping experiences.
  • Loyalty Programs: Reward repeat customers and encourage brand loyalty with customizable programs.
  • Gift Cards and Store Credit: Offer gift cards and store credit as additional sales channels and customer incentives.
  • Reporting and Analytics: Generate comprehensive reports on sales performance, inventory levels, and customer trends to make informed business decisions.
  • Integrations: Connect Helcim with various third-party apps and services for a streamlined workflow, including accounting software, marketing tools, and shipping platforms.
  • API Access: Developers can leverage the Helcim API to integrate functionalities into custom applications.
  • Security Features: Industry-standard security measures protect customer data and financial information, ensuring PCI compliance.
read more...

Product Ranking

#33

among all
POS Software

#65

among all
POS Software

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Analyst Rating Summary

76
59
67
67
59
52
100
20
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Employee Management
Reporting and Insights
Types of POS
Payment Transactions and Cash Management

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

MICROS
Helcim
+ Add Product + Add Product
Compliance And Security Customer And Loyalty Management Employee Management Inventory Management Items And Service Management Payment Transactions And Cash Management POS Hardware Reporting And Insights Sales And Marketing Management Store Management Types Of POS 67 59 100 65 83 78 78 100 52 82 91 67 52 20 56 55 86 59 50 52 50 74 0 25 50 75 100
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78%
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22%
78%
11%
11%
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89%
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44%
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56%
88%
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Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

60%
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40%
80%
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User Sentiment Summary

Fair User Sentiment 94 reviews
Great User Sentiment 54 reviews
61%
of users recommend this product

MICROS has a 'fair' User Satisfaction Rating of 61% when considering 94 user reviews from 2 recognized software review sites.

88%
of users recommend this product

Helcim has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 88% when considering 54 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

3.7 (25)
4.4 (13)
n/a
4.27 (22)
n/a
4.6 (19)
2.8 (69)
n/a

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Streamlined Order Flow: Users praise MICROS' intuitive interface for fast order entry, table management, and split bill options. One server noted, "Orders fly through during peak hours, saving us valuable time and keeping customers happy."
Detailed Reporting & Analytics: Real-time sales data, inventory reports, and employee performance dashboards are lauded for providing actionable insights. A hotel manager shared, "MICROS helped us identify overstocked items and optimize staffing based on guest traffic patterns."
Customization & Integrations: MICROS' adaptability to unique needs is appreciated. A coffee shop owner said, "We easily customized menus for different locations and integrated with our loyalty program, boosting customer engagement."
Reliable & Secure: Users emphasize MICROS' stability and security features. A restaurant manager commented, "We've never experienced downtime during service, and the PCI compliance gives us peace of mind."
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Competitive Pricing: Users mentioned significantly lower fees compared to previous processors, saving them money on transactions.
Feature Rich: Users appreciated features like extensive APIs, detailed documentation, and the ability to customize the platform for their specific needs.
Reliable Processing: Many users reported smooth and dependable payment processing, crucial for uninterrupted business operations.
Strong Integrations: Users valued seamless integrations with various third-party tools, streamlining their workflow.
Supportive Customer Service: While some mentioned occasional issues, users generally praised the helpfulness and responsiveness of the customer service team.
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Complexity & Learning Curve: Some users find the initial setup and interface overwhelming, requiring significant training for staff. One reviewer commented, "The learning curve was steep for our team, especially for tasks beyond basic order entry."
Cost & Licensing: MICROS can be expensive compared to simpler POS systems, with complex licensing structures. A small business owner stated, "The upfront costs and ongoing licensing fees were a major hurdle for our limited budget."
Customization Limitations: While customizable, some users report difficulty achieving desired workflows or integrations. A retail store manager shared, "We struggled to integrate with our inventory management system, requiring additional workarounds."
Hardware Dependence: MICROS may require specific hardware setups, potentially increasing costs and maintenance needs. A bar owner noted, "We had to invest in proprietary tablets that weren't compatible with other POS systems."
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Potentially Higher Fees for Low Volume: While praised for competitive pricing, some users with low transaction volume felt fees were less economical compared to flat-rate options.
Occasional Technical Issues: Some users reported encountering bugs or glitches within the platform, causing workflow disruptions.
Learning Curve for Beginners: New users unfamiliar with complex POS systems sometimes found initial setup and navigation challenging.
Limited Integration Options: Although integrations exist, users expressed a desire for broader compatibility with specific accounting or inventory management software.
Contractual Concerns: A few users mentioned being locked into longer contracts than desired, limiting flexibility to switch providers.
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User reviews of MICROS in the past year paint a contrasting picture. While its strengths like streamlined order flow, detailed reporting, and customization garner praise, its learning curve, cost, and limitations can be significant drawbacks. On the positive side, users rave about MICROS' efficiency. Orders fly through during rush hours, thanks to the intuitive interface and table management features. One server even mentioned saving valuable time and keeping customers happy. The reporting and analytics are another highlight, providing businesses with real-time sales data, inventory insights, and even employee performance dashboards. This helps optimize operations and identify areas for improvement, like a hotel manager discovering overstocked items and adjusting staffing based on guest patterns. Additionally, MICROS' adaptability is appreciated, allowing businesses to customize menus, integrate loyalty programs, and tailor workflows to their specific needs. A coffee shop owner mentioned easily customizing menus for different locations and boosting customer engagement through loyalty program integration. However, MICROS also faces criticism. The initial setup and interface can be overwhelming, requiring significant training for staff. Some users compared it to a "steep learning curve," especially for tasks beyond basic order entry. Furthermore, the cost can be a major hurdle, particularly for smaller businesses. The upfront costs and ongoing licensing fees are often cited as drawbacks, making MICROS less competitive against simpler POS systems. Additionally, while customizable, some users report difficulty achieving desired workflows or integrations. This lack of flexibility can be frustrating, as one retail store manager mentioned struggling to integrate with their existing inventory management system. Finally, MICROS' dependence on specific hardware setups can add to the overall cost and maintenance needs. In conclusion, user reviews of MICROS reveal a powerful POS system with undeniable strengths but also significant limitations. Businesses should carefully weigh the pros and cons, considering their specific needs, budget, and technical expertise before deciding if MICROS is the right fit for them.

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Recent user reviews of Helcim's POS software reveal a multifaceted perspective. While lauded for its competitive pricing and feature richness, potential drawbacks emerge for specific user profiles. Strengths: Users consistently highlight Helcim's transparent interchange-plus pricing model, which translates to significant cost savings compared to traditional processors. The platform's extensive APIs and customization capabilities empower businesses to tailor the software to their unique workflows. Additionally, seamless integrations with popular third-party tools further enhance operational efficiency. Weaknesses: Reviews indicate a potential learning curve for new users, particularly those unfamiliar with complex POS systems. While integrations exist, some users yearn for broader compatibility with niche software, suggesting room for improvement. Furthermore, the fee structure might seem less competitive for businesses with low transaction volumes, where flat-rate options offered by competitors like Square or Shopify POS might be more suitable. In conclusion, Helcim shines for businesses seeking a cost-effective POS solution with rich features and customization options. Its transparent pricing model and integration capabilities are valuable assets. However, the potential learning curve and limited integration options should be carefully considered, especially for new users or those with specific software needs. A thorough evaluation of your business's size, transaction volume, and technical expertise is crucial to determine if Helcim truly differentiates itself from the competition.

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