Final answer:
The systems critical for capturing sales data and linked to inventory management are Point-of-sale systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
The systems that are critical for capturing sales data and are usually linked to systems that manage a firm's inventory are Point-of-sale (POS) systems. These systems are used to record sales transactions and track inventory levels in real-time. They are often connected to inventory management systems, which help businesses keep track of their stock levels, manage replenishment, and analyze sales data.
Point-of-sale systems are typically hardware and software solutions that include a cash register, barcode scanner, receipt printer, and a back-end software system. They capture crucial information about each sale, such as the product sold, quantity, price, and payment method.
By integrating the point-of-sale system with inventory management systems, businesses can maintain accurate and up-to-date information about their inventory levels, sales trends, and customer preferences. This enables them to make informed decisions about stock ordering, pricing strategies, and customer service.