Understanding the Differences Between POS and KDS

A POS and KDS are commonly confused as the same type of software. Although both of these technologies are closely integrated and an integral part of a successful restaurant operation, they are very different. What’s the difference between a POS and kitchen display system? Let’s discuss how each software works by themselves and together, as well as the benefits they provide.

What is a POS?A POS is a front of house software that takes the place of a cash register. A traditional POS keeps a list of menu items in a database, allowing servers to input customer orders. It will also include credit card processing and receipt printing.  A modern POS would have the same features as a traditional POS but can also record and track transactions, process customers’ payments, provide employee productivity reports, sales patterns, and manage inventory.

A POS could be a terminal or tablet, such as an iPad. In addition to the terminal and tablet, there is a mobile POS. A mobile POS is a…