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LightSpeed Software
 | 28 Reviews (4.0/5) |
Using the cutting edge Apple platform, LightSpeed (formerly Xsilva Systems) offers a distinctive, powerful retail management solution for retailers looking to improve front-counter and back office operations. With its unique, intuitive design, retailers have an elegant and scalable solution to handle point of sale, inventory management, customer management and their online retail presence.
Founded by Dax Dasilva, recipient of Ernst & Young’s Quebec Entrepreneur Of The Year for Information Technology in 2012, Lightspeed POS offers a visually-dynamics suite of tools that make it easy to click, drag & drop, and track all aspects of a retail business. It can be tailored to suit a number of retail industries, including apparel, electronics, jewelry, sporting goods and more.
LightSpeed's visually dynamic suite of tools make it easy to click, drag, and drop to operate and track all aspects of a retail business. It can be tailored to suit a number of retail industries, including apparel, electronics, jewelry, sporting goods and more.
The Point of Sale and back-end browser utilize Cover Flow technology, offering clients a fluid interface for high-speed retail operations. Users browse customers and products graphically, reducing sales errors. Retailers can create a strong online retail presence with LightSpeed eCommerce, deployed as LightSpeed's homegrown online shopping cart or a connector to Magento, a widely used, highly customizable eCommerce solution.
LightSpeed Mobile extends to the sales floor, freeing salespeople from the front register. Using Apple mobile devices, retailers can access inventory and process sales from anywhere in the store.
With a look inspired by iTunes, the back office functionality is built on the powerful SQL database and has hardware support via USB for cash drawers and both card and barcode readers. LightSpeed also encourages growth and enhancements to the software with LightSpeed API, which opens the platform to developers.
For a complete retail management system that is both visually stunning and fully functional, retailers should evaluate LightSpeed. Retailers can download a LightSpeed demo for a more in-depth look at the system. The LightSpeed download is good for 30 days.
28 Reviews of LightSpeed
Overall rating
We are a retail gift store that has been open for 16 years. We have many different items from many different vendors in our store, the thought of setting up a computerized inventory system after running everything manually for so many years was very intimidating.
We have been using LightSpeed for a few years now and can't believe we functioned without it. We thought we knew what was selling in our store but once we were able to run reports with clear and precise data, we were able to see what was really happening. It makes it possible to respond quickly to the market and our store has changed quite dramatically (for the better) since we started with LightSpeed.
We just opened two new locations and are now utilizing the Multi-Store feature-this feature has saved us a lot of time and makes everything very easy and organized.
The customer support is awesome, very thorough in their responses and assistance.
We researched every POS system on the market and if you are looking for a POS/Inventory system to work with your Apple-look no further, this is it!
We have been using LightSpeed for a few years now and can't believe we functioned without it. We thought we knew what was selling in our store but once we were able to run reports with clear and precise data, we were able to see what was really happening. It makes it possible to respond quickly to the market and our store has changed quite dramatically (for the better) since we started with LightSpeed.
We just opened two new locations and are now utilizing the Multi-Store feature-this feature has saved us a lot of time and makes everything very easy and organized.
The customer support is awesome, very thorough in their responses and assistance.
We researched every POS system on the market and if you are looking for a POS/Inventory system to work with your Apple-look no further, this is it!
Overall rating
We made the switch to Lightspeed, from Quickbooks, in 2011 during a major expansion of our 1000 sq ft retail clothing store. It was the perfect choice to meet our quickly growing needs for a better organized and more functional way to track inventory, make sales and view reports -- in fact, we really regretted not switching earlier!
The easy to use POS screen made training our employees a breeze and ensures that sales data is captured completely and systematically for each transaction -- something we didn't have the ability to do when we were hand-typing each sales invoice in Quickbooks. Plus, the addition of integrated hardware (a barcode scanner, barcode label printer, cash drawer and receipt printer) accomplished even more than faster transaction time and more accurate inventory records -- it made our sales staff seem more professional and our customers feel more comfortable.
Inventory tracking is one of the biggest strengths of this software. You can determine how much information you want to enter about each product, depending on what data you want to collect - multiple suppliers and costs, UPC codes, margins, related products and packaging... It was revolutionary for us to be able to know exactly what we have in inventory instead of confusing spreadsheets full of inconsistently described merchandise. We love that we can see detailed information about which products we have on the floor versus what's in storage, that we can quickly compare expenses with profits, and that we can create reorders and customer - specific orders with a couple of clicks.
We also added the Lightspeed webstore when we switched to Lightspeed - and we're so happy that we did. We'd tried using several different platforms for an online shop, but kept running into the nagging issue of inventory maintenance since we were listing the same products online that were for sale in our brick-and-mortar shop. Lightspeed provides us with an integrated inventory for both stores, updating our database live, so that we never sell the same item twice. Products are easy to add to (or remove from) the webstore and web sales are easy to track. Plus we were able to do quite a bit of customization ourselves, adding both functionality and attractiveness to the existing template. We'd recommend that if you're going to use the Lightspeed web store, you work closely with a web developer who can help you get the most out of this great feature.
Lightspeed customer service has been impeccable. They're fast, kind and very knowledgeable. Plus they really seem to care that you and your business succeed, with the help of their software. We'd recommend that you purchase the Maintenance Plan so that you get instant access to their support gurus. Totally worth it.
The easy to use POS screen made training our employees a breeze and ensures that sales data is captured completely and systematically for each transaction -- something we didn't have the ability to do when we were hand-typing each sales invoice in Quickbooks. Plus, the addition of integrated hardware (a barcode scanner, barcode label printer, cash drawer and receipt printer) accomplished even more than faster transaction time and more accurate inventory records -- it made our sales staff seem more professional and our customers feel more comfortable.
Inventory tracking is one of the biggest strengths of this software. You can determine how much information you want to enter about each product, depending on what data you want to collect - multiple suppliers and costs, UPC codes, margins, related products and packaging... It was revolutionary for us to be able to know exactly what we have in inventory instead of confusing spreadsheets full of inconsistently described merchandise. We love that we can see detailed information about which products we have on the floor versus what's in storage, that we can quickly compare expenses with profits, and that we can create reorders and customer - specific orders with a couple of clicks.
We also added the Lightspeed webstore when we switched to Lightspeed - and we're so happy that we did. We'd tried using several different platforms for an online shop, but kept running into the nagging issue of inventory maintenance since we were listing the same products online that were for sale in our brick-and-mortar shop. Lightspeed provides us with an integrated inventory for both stores, updating our database live, so that we never sell the same item twice. Products are easy to add to (or remove from) the webstore and web sales are easy to track. Plus we were able to do quite a bit of customization ourselves, adding both functionality and attractiveness to the existing template. We'd recommend that if you're going to use the Lightspeed web store, you work closely with a web developer who can help you get the most out of this great feature.
Lightspeed customer service has been impeccable. They're fast, kind and very knowledgeable. Plus they really seem to care that you and your business succeed, with the help of their software. We'd recommend that you purchase the Maintenance Plan so that you get instant access to their support gurus. Totally worth it.
Overall rating
Lightspeed has made the transition into running a small business incredibly easy. Tracking inventory while selling both in the store and out at events using the mobile device has allowed us to bring our products to people instead of waiting for them to come to us. Collecting emails and staying in contact with our customers has also been made simple by creating customers within the system. Lightspeed simplified the point of sale system for me and has been one of the best decisions I have made since opening my doors.
Overall rating
After being in business for many years in Europe, we decided to start an interior design business in the USA. Our first store opened in Key West, FL and after two years it was time for store no. 2 in the NY area.
As part of opening our second store, we wanted to update our sales system. Up to that point of course, we didn't use any system, just simple software to print an invoice, but nothing to manage our inventory and products.
Because the use of Apple products, we needed something that was compatible with Apple and hopefully was as "good-looking" as Apple products. Of course the web is the place to start looking for POS systems, we looked at a few and started using the demo version of Lightspeed. Why Lightspeed? It had that professional look, easy to use feel and compared to the others, a great website!
After starting the demo, that's when we fell in love! We tried all kinds of functionality, we build and edited products, started working with master and child products, inventory, customer database and e-commerce, all based on our actual store situation.
The way Lightspeed works is just fabulous. It is amazingly easy navigate, learn to use the software, and if we need help, the support is more than helpful. Those guys rock! We can honestly say that Lightspeed made our business grow. Would we go with any other POS system? No way, we are glad to be a part of the Lightspeed family.
As part of opening our second store, we wanted to update our sales system. Up to that point of course, we didn't use any system, just simple software to print an invoice, but nothing to manage our inventory and products.
Because the use of Apple products, we needed something that was compatible with Apple and hopefully was as "good-looking" as Apple products. Of course the web is the place to start looking for POS systems, we looked at a few and started using the demo version of Lightspeed. Why Lightspeed? It had that professional look, easy to use feel and compared to the others, a great website!
After starting the demo, that's when we fell in love! We tried all kinds of functionality, we build and edited products, started working with master and child products, inventory, customer database and e-commerce, all based on our actual store situation.
The way Lightspeed works is just fabulous. It is amazingly easy navigate, learn to use the software, and if we need help, the support is more than helpful. Those guys rock! We can honestly say that Lightspeed made our business grow. Would we go with any other POS system? No way, we are glad to be a part of the Lightspeed family.
Overall rating
I used 3 different programs before finding Lightspeed in 2007 to run my art gallery. Designing my own POS in File Maker was "fun" after a year of using excel. Then we went to POSIM, but it didn't have the end user feel or functionality I wanted.
Ease-of-use (once up and running) and adaptability to different workflows are its strength. The ability to find data (slice and dice) easily with powerful smart finds has simplified our workflows. We operated 3 locations for a time and found the multi-store features invaluable.
While I uses webstore, it is not our focus. But it is so easy to click a button and add the items already in the system to the web that during our busy season it adds an additional 10% or so.
I figured out that if you email support a screen shot of your problem you get better/faster service because they don't have to do as much digging to figure out what your are talking about. Other than that, work with a local reseller/trainer to help make the initial data setup go faster/smoother.
Ease-of-use (once up and running) and adaptability to different workflows are its strength. The ability to find data (slice and dice) easily with powerful smart finds has simplified our workflows. We operated 3 locations for a time and found the multi-store features invaluable.
While I uses webstore, it is not our focus. But it is so easy to click a button and add the items already in the system to the web that during our busy season it adds an additional 10% or so.
I figured out that if you email support a screen shot of your problem you get better/faster service because they don't have to do as much digging to figure out what your are talking about. Other than that, work with a local reseller/trainer to help make the initial data setup go faster/smoother.
Overall rating
I own two mattress stores in Austin, TX and have used LS for over 3 years. Most of the functions on LS are intuitive and the workflow is easy to get a handle on. It is simple enough that I can train a new employee quickly, and yet robust enough that it helps me keep an eye on all the pertinent information.
Some of the initial set up is a bit confusing, but I found the LS staff to be patient and helpful (whether they are talking with me or my book keeper).
We enjoy the fact that the receipts are very customizable and look very nice for a large purchase such as a mattress. I also love the related products feature, we sell in sets and we can build product relationships to reflect that.
The reporting system is great as well. It is not highly intuitive, but once you get the hang of it you can decipher all the information you need. I would like to see improvements in the mobile app as well as in the 'station' settings.
Overall, this is a fantastic product for Mac based retail stores. I love how it functions and love how it feels.
Some of the initial set up is a bit confusing, but I found the LS staff to be patient and helpful (whether they are talking with me or my book keeper).
We enjoy the fact that the receipts are very customizable and look very nice for a large purchase such as a mattress. I also love the related products feature, we sell in sets and we can build product relationships to reflect that.
The reporting system is great as well. It is not highly intuitive, but once you get the hang of it you can decipher all the information you need. I would like to see improvements in the mobile app as well as in the 'station' settings.
Overall, this is a fantastic product for Mac based retail stores. I love how it functions and love how it feels.
Overall rating
We use Lightspeed for our Organic Gardening & Hydroponics store. We are about to open a second location, and love using the multi user license features. Lightspeed isn't hard to use and makes life easier. We love the mobile POS functionality so that we can do trade shows and farmers markets. The sales team (Christian) has been extremely helpful and knowledgable all around. We absolutely have no complaints, Lightspeed has made our life easier and better.
Overall rating
We've been using LightSpeed since we opened and I will say that they have a tremendous sales & support staff. We are a retail apparel environment that stocks a lot of "Style Numbers" and the program issues a separate number for each size of each style of each color.
The set up of the system was easy. I didn't go through a reseller, just the home company. My employees get it easier than any system I've used at previous shops. The only issues I have with it are in the reporting side. They cannot (from what I've been told) issue a report that gives you a simple snapshot of "Item - Recieved - Sold - On Hand". If you have a list of the reporting needs you have, then research if LightSpeed has it, it'll save you some headaches later when you realize you can't find the data you need and have to look for a different way to get it. From what I understand, LightSpeed is working on the functionality of their reporting, so that will be nice. All in all, a very good system for the price.
The set up of the system was easy. I didn't go through a reseller, just the home company. My employees get it easier than any system I've used at previous shops. The only issues I have with it are in the reporting side. They cannot (from what I've been told) issue a report that gives you a simple snapshot of "Item - Recieved - Sold - On Hand". If you have a list of the reporting needs you have, then research if LightSpeed has it, it'll save you some headaches later when you realize you can't find the data you need and have to look for a different way to get it. From what I understand, LightSpeed is working on the functionality of their reporting, so that will be nice. All in all, a very good system for the price.
Overall rating
I discovered LightSpeed a little over a year ago while researching eCommerce platforms. I downloaded the demo and was quickly impressed with the depth of the workflows and system integration with both mobile devices, eCommerce and multi-store capabilities. I decided to take a deeper look, attended a certification camp and eventually became a LightSpeed Reseller. For the last year, I've built a business based completely on providing LightSpeed oriented point-of-sale services. Our clients are drawn to LightSpeed as total business solution that just works. The interface is clean, intuitive, easy to navigate and provides everything you would expect from Mac based software. Looks and feel aside, the true value of LightSpeed are the integrated workflows that allow businesses a great deal of control. Bottom line, response from our clients is that LightSpeed saves them time and money.
LightSpeed isn't the perfect platform for every business, but it's a great platform for most. It provides a open API and their eCommerce component is open source, so with the help of a great reseller and/or developer LightSpeed is highly customizable, which makes it's a very flexible platform to use as your business grows. LightSpeed offers excellent customer support and their senior staff works very closely with the reseller network to ensure end users are receiving quality services that meet their standards. Compared to other systems such as Quickbooks, MicroBiz and Retail Pro, LightSpeed is a definite step up. With that said, there are minor quirks that can be found in the software depending on your type of business. These are not bugs, just features that need a little more polish and attention.
The stability of LightSpeed and the organization as a whole is what convinced us to build a business around the software. While a lot of resellers sell multiple POS systems, we believe completely in just one. The demo is free and there are talend resellers all across the country. If you are serious about finding a next generation POS system, LightSpeed is a definite choice.
LightSpeed isn't the perfect platform for every business, but it's a great platform for most. It provides a open API and their eCommerce component is open source, so with the help of a great reseller and/or developer LightSpeed is highly customizable, which makes it's a very flexible platform to use as your business grows. LightSpeed offers excellent customer support and their senior staff works very closely with the reseller network to ensure end users are receiving quality services that meet their standards. Compared to other systems such as Quickbooks, MicroBiz and Retail Pro, LightSpeed is a definite step up. With that said, there are minor quirks that can be found in the software depending on your type of business. These are not bugs, just features that need a little more polish and attention.
The stability of LightSpeed and the organization as a whole is what convinced us to build a business around the software. While a lot of resellers sell multiple POS systems, we believe completely in just one. The demo is free and there are talend resellers all across the country. If you are serious about finding a next generation POS system, LightSpeed is a definite choice.
Overall rating
I have been a LightSpeed customer for just about 2 years. I wanted a POS system that ran on a Mac with all of the advanced options and integrated web store features. I have a fantastic relationship with my sales person, Christian, and there was no pressure to buy just to make a sale. Christian educated me on the product and has created with me a great relationship, he also provides exceptional service that is second to none and he has earned a customer for life. Christian's honesty, knowledge and advice given to me ensures total confidence with LightSpeed. It is rare to receive such exceptional service from a sales person in or out of the software industry. If you are lucky enough to have Christian as your sales person then you know exactly what I'm speaking of.
The solution fits our needs as it is so easy use, train new employees and use everyday with no issues. Lightspeed also will allow us to expand for future multi-store locations. They issue updates often to keep the system fresh and working seamlessly allowing the software to work without bugs and process transactions, maintenance quickly and with ease. I tried a few "Cloud" and Windows based systems, prior to choosing LightSpeed and hands down I choose the best solution.
The solution fits our needs as it is so easy use, train new employees and use everyday with no issues. Lightspeed also will allow us to expand for future multi-store locations. They issue updates often to keep the system fresh and working seamlessly allowing the software to work without bugs and process transactions, maintenance quickly and with ease. I tried a few "Cloud" and Windows based systems, prior to choosing LightSpeed and hands down I choose the best solution.
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