POS Setup Guide for New Cafes: Step by Step
Setting up a POS from scratch doesn't have to be complicated. Here's the sequence of steps — from account to first transaction.
A Logical Sequence
POS setup is a series of interdependent steps. This order usually works smoothest.
1. Business Info
Business name (appears on receipts), business type, tax and service charge settings, cash rounding. This is the foundation used throughout the system.
2. Menu
Create categories first (Coffee, Non-Coffee, Food, Snacks), then products under each. Tip: start with your core menu. You can always add more later.
3. Cashier
Create a cashier profile with a name and 4-digit PIN. This PIN is separate from the admin password — designed so cashiers can switch quickly without knowing admin credentials.
4. Printer (Optional)
If you have a thermal printer, connect it now. Options include Bluetooth, USB, or network. No printer yet? Skip — you can use the on-screen preview.
5. Manager PIN
A separate PIN for approving sensitive actions: voids, large discounts, cash withdrawals. Your digital vault key — different from the cashier PIN.
6. Open Shift and Start
Log in as cashier, open a shift with the starting cash balance (count what's in the drawer now), and start taking orders.