Essentials Solution FAQ
Description
What's in this article?
Back Office and Getting Started
- Can I manually sync the POS with the Back Office?
Follow these steps to quickly synchronize your POS device with the Back Office.
- Can items be imported if there is already an item file created?
If you already have a list of items, you can take advantage of the item import utility within the system to import the items into the Back Office. A spreadsheet template is provided, allowing you to reformat the item details properly and import the file directly from your PC. If you attempt to import an item that already exists, you will receive a warning from the system
- I've got a large inventory stored in another POS system. Will you help me import it to Essentials?
When you set up your Essentials system, the Activations team will assist with importing your existing inventory or menu.
Communications and Marketing
- Does the system support email marketing?
The system has robust email marketing capabilities. This includes the ability to send out bulk emails on demand, as well as Welcome and Miss You emails automatically.
- Does Essentials allow for clients to receive a text message asking how their service went after their visit?
No, that is not a current capability.
- Does Essentials link to Google for customer reviews?
While we do not directly link to Google for customer reviews, you can add the Google website to your receipts under Settings > Store Information and select the Include QR Code checkbox and fill in the Website (URL) for the QR code to direct customers to Google reviews.
Customer and Employee Management
- Is there a maximum number of customers and items supported?
While there are no actual limits placed on the number of customers, the system has been optimized to support up to 50,000 total items.
- Can customers be imported if there is already a customer file created?
If you already have a list of customers, you can take advantage of an import utility within the system to load the customers into the Back Office. A spreadsheet template is provided, allowing you to reformat the customer details properly and import the file directly from your PC.
- Can I clock in an employee or clock them out?
Yes. Employees can perform the clock in/clock out, but if you need to assist with clock in/out or make an adjustment, you can.
- Can employees clock in from the A920 terminal?
Yes. Any terminal that is running Essentials can be used
Discounts
- How would a customer redeem an emailed discount?
If a customer brings an emailed discount into the store and presents it during checkout, the POS user will select or scan the discount and apply it to the ticket. Read more about discounts on the POS.
- Can I mark an item so that it is non-discountable at the POS?
All items and tickets can be discounted; however, there is a feature to add a minimum qualifying amount to a discount so that an item or a ticket must meet a minimum dollar amount to be discounted.
Location Management
- How are multiple stores supported?
Our multi-store features work best for customers who have multiple stores with the same concept, such as two pet stores and not one pet store and one coffee shop. We also allow you to create multiple selling locations for merchants who are truly mobile.
Order and Transaction Management
- Can purchase orders be created within the system?
The system does not actually create purchase orders or import advanced shipping and receiving files. However, you can perform counts of items, enter in receiving quantities, and automatically deplete inventory, so you always have visibility to current quantity on hand of your items. In addition, using sales history and setting reorder points, you also have visibility to the days of supply you have left based on past sales, so you can make decisions on when to order at any time. Read more about inventory management options.
- Can I enter an order remotely?
Orders may entered through the POS terminal or through Online Ordering, if you have that option.
- Is there a way to add notes to a transaction?
Yes, you can add item notes and/or ticket notes to any transaction.
Payment Methods
- Does Essentials support gift cards?
Open loop (store branded) gift cards are not currently supported. However, closed loop (Visa/Mastercard gift cards) are accepted.
Passwords and Connection
- How do I reset my Back Office password?
Click Forgot Password? or Forgot User Name? on the login screen to receive an email with next steps on resetting your password. The reset password link will expire after 24 hours.
Read more about how to login to Back Office, reset your password or the passwords for your employees.
- I’m locked out of my account. What do I do?
Click Forgot Password? or Forgot User Name? on the login screen to receive an email with next steps on resetting your password. The reset password link will expire after 24 hours.
Read more about how to login to Back Office, reset your password or the passwords for your employees.
- My Wi-Fi Connection isn’t working. What do I do?
Access the Terminal Ethernet or WiFi Setup page for troubleshooting.
Receipts and Labels
- Can receipts be emailed or printed?
Yes, you can print or email receipts.
- Can labels be generated from inventory and have a print option (For example: Easy Labels)?
No. Labels cannot be generated and printed.