In the ever-changing landscape of charitable giving, it’s essential for not-for-profits to stay ahead of the curve. One technology significantly impacting the sector is QR code payments. This blog aims to delve into five actionable ways not-for-profits can leverage QR codes to maximise donations.
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Mobile Point of Sale (mPOS) systems are revolutionising the way businesses handle transactions, offering flexibility and convenience by turning smartphones and tablets into fully functional sales terminals. This technology is useful to anyone who regularly accepts or processes payments, so read along if that sounds like you. But first, what does a POS system do?
Put simply, POS stands for Point of Sale. A POS system is the hardware and software that allows businesses to manage sales transactions and accept various payment methods. It has a credit card reader to accept payments so both businesses and customers can go through the checkout process efficiently when making purchases in store. POS systems come in all shapes and sizes, so in this blog we'll explain all there is to know about mobile point-of-sale (mPOS) systems to help you streamline your payment process.
The Rise of QR Code Payments
QR codes aren't new, but their application in payments has seen a dramatic rise, especially post-COVID-19. According to a study by Juniper Research, the use of QR codes for payments is expected to surge by 300% in the next five years. The pandemic accelerated the need for contactless payments, and QR codes have filled that gap perfectly.
According to a study by Juniper Research, the use of QR codes for payments is expected to surge by 300% in the next five years.
The Benefits of QR Code Payments for Charities
QR codes bring several advantages to the table:
High-Speed Transactions: Scanning a code takes mere seconds.
Reduced Operational Costs: No need for costly card readers or payment gateways.
Increased Security: Modern encryption methods make QR payments secure.
1. Streamlining In-Person Fundraisers
Ease of Use
Imagine attending a charity gala where, instead of waiting in line to make a donation, you simply scan a QR code from your table menu, wall poster or big screen. The process is smooth, quick, and eliminates the friction often associated with charitable giving.
Logistical Benefits
By using QR codes, organisations can reduce the logistical nightmare of cash handling, freeing volunteers to engage more with attendees.
Real-world Example
Melbourne Storm Rugby League Club used Pebl to generate and feature QR codes on their table menus for their Women in Storm fundraising event.
What are the Advantages of a Mobile POS System?
Here’s some key advantages of a mobile POS system. For more points, read our article on the 7 key benefits of mPOS devices.
- Mobility and Flexibility: Unlike traditional countertop POS systems, an mPOS system is portable, allowing businesses to move the terminal to wherever the customer is, enhancing the customer experience by reducing wait times and enabling more personalised interactions.
- Ideal for Businesses without Permanent Locations: The portability of mobile POS systems makes them perfect for pop-up shops, food trucks, and vendors at fairs or markets. Even service-based businesses like home repair or cleaning services can process transactions on-site without the need for complex setups
- Supports Multiple Payment Methods: Mobile POS devices can handle various payment options, such as contactless credit or debit cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, and even QR code payments, providing customers with better service and convenience.
- Industry-Specific Features: Some mPOS solutions are tailored to the needs of the food and beverage industry, allowing orders to be sent directly from servers to kitchens or enabling customers to place their own orders at the table.
- Lower Investment Costs: Compared to full-size POS terminals, mPOS systems require a lower initial investment, making them an affordable option for small businesses with limited budgets looking to quickly start taking payments.
- Enhanced Security: Mobile POS systems are designed with secure payment processing in mind. They handle the entire transaction within the mPOS terminal, ensuring no sensitive data is stored elsewhere, which enhances security and reduces risks for small businesses.
2. Seamless Online Integration
Advertising Campaigns
Embedding a QR code within a print advertisement, or outdoor poster and/or billboard can turn attention into tangible donations effortlessly.
Email Marketing
Inserting a QR code into email campaigns can trigger immediate action, eliminating the cumbersome need to click through various links.
Analytics
QR codes allow for real-time tracking, offering insights into what strategies are most effective.