Payment Processing Software Features
Encryption — Credit card and other payment information is extremely sensitive and must be protected from hackers and other threats. A good payment processor has strong encryption and likely more than one type of encryption to keep both customer and merchant data safe. If data is stolen the consequences can be dire for a business.
Reports and analytics — Some payment processors provide regular reports based on activity. This helps financial management import payment into analytics software. Knowing how customers make payments and ensuring they match a business’ revenue is crucial.
Processing fees — Many payment processors function by adding a small fee to each transaction. This is often a flat fee plus a percentage of the actual purchase. Some processors have different fee structures, but fees are nearly universal. Fee amounts vary slightly depending on the processor or based on the type of payment used.
E-commerce integration — Payment processor integration into e-commerce stores creates a seamless experience for customers when shopping online. Shoppers input both their payment information and their shipping information at the same time, and the business receives payment and all relevant information to fulfill the order quickly.
POS integration — For storefronts, payment processors integrated with a POS system create a seamless and quick checkout process so the stores receive payment on the spot and customers walk out with their purchase.
Payment methods — More payment methods accepted by a payment processor, means more customers. This includes mobile payments and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Many payment processors accept certain credit cards or work with specific currencies.
Additional Payment Processing Features
E-signatures — Some payment processors allow users to digitally sign (usually using a finger to write) their credit card purchase. This provides added security measures and prevents fraud. This is typically a feature of mobile and tablet-based POS systems integrated with a payment processor. E-commerce purchases do not typically require a signature because they cross-check billing addresses and the security code on the credit card.
Receipts — Some POS systems generate digital or physical receipts. This allows both the merchant and the customer to maintain records. Online purchases use email receipts that can be printed if necessary. For in-store purchases, digital receipts can be emailed or texted.
Card readers — For physical purchases using a credit card, a card reader is important for streamlining the process. It’s much faster to swipe a card or read the chip than manually input the credit card information. Many tablet-based POS systems have a stand that includes a card reader, but for those using a mobile phone, some kind of mobile reader is required. These may plug directly into the phone or connect via Bluetooth.
