? Frequently Asked Questions ??

Shoppal stands out with its unique combination of features:

• ?? AI-Powered Insights: Shoppal AI provides intelligent business recommendations and predictive analytics
• ?? Offline Functionality: Continue operations even without internet connectivity
• ?? Mobile-First Design: Optimized for smartphones and tablets
• ?? Free Advertising: Built-in marketing tools to attract local customers
• ?? Enterprise Security: Bank-level security with separate admin and cashier accounts
• ?? Advanced Analytics: Real-time insights and comprehensive reporting

Currently, Shoppal POS is available on Android devices. You can download it from the Google Play Store. We're actively developing the iOS version and it will be available soon!

Shoppal AI is also available on Android and can be downloaded here.

Shoppal is perfect for small to medium-sized businesses including:

• ?? Retail Stores: Clothing, electronics, groceries, and more
• ? Cafes & Restaurants: Food service and hospitality
• ?? Pharmacies: Healthcare and wellness products
• ?? Convenience Stores: Small retail operations
• ?? Specialty Shops: Boutiques and niche markets
• ?? Multi-location Businesses: Companies with multiple branches

Whether you're a single-store owner or managing multiple locations, Shoppal scales with your business needs.

Shoppal POS comes packed with powerful features:

• ?? Offline Functionality: Process sales without internet
• ??? Bluetooth Receipt Printing: Custom receipts with your branding
• ?? Debtors & Payment Tracking: Comprehensive financial management
• ?? Admin & Cashier Accounts: Secure role-based access
• ?? Multiple Branch Support: Manage multiple locations
• ?? Multiple Cashier Support: Track individual performance
• ?? Dark & Light Themes: Customize your interface
• ?? Real-time Sales Tracking: Instant insights and reports
• ?? Inventory Management: Real-time stock control
• ?? Free Advertising: Built-in marketing tools
• ?? AI Sales Predictions: Machine learning insights
• ?? Advanced Analytics: Comprehensive business intelligence

Yes! Shoppal POS is designed to work seamlessly offline.

When your internet connection is down, you can continue to:

• Process sales transactions
• Generate receipts
• Manage inventory
• Track cashier activities

All offline data automatically syncs when your connection is restored, ensuring you never lose any information.

Shoppal POS was designed with simplicity in mind:

• ?? Intuitive Interface: Clean, user-friendly design that requires minimal training
• ?? Touch-Optimized: Designed for tablets and touchscreens
• ? Quick Setup: Get started in minutes, not hours
• ?? Built-in Help: Contextual guidance and tooltips
• ?? Visual Design: Clear icons and logical layout

Most staff members can start processing sales within 15 minutes of their first use!

Shoppal's inventory management is comprehensive and real-time:

• ?? Real-time Updates: Stock levels update instantly with each sale
• ?? Transaction History: Track every item's complete history
• ?? Low Stock Alerts: Get notified when items need restocking
• ?? Stock Aging Analysis: Identify slow-moving inventory
• ?? Restock Management: Easy restocking and adjustments
• ?? Performance Analytics: See which items sell best

Never worry about overstocking or running out of popular items again!

Shoppal AI is your intelligent business assistant that transforms complex data into actionable insights:

• ?? Natural Language Queries: Ask questions like "How are my sales this week?"
• ?? Real-time Highlights: Automatic insights about your business performance
• ?? Sales Predictions: AI-powered forecasting for better planning
• ?? Smart Stock Alerts: Prevent overstocking and stockouts
• ?? Market Intelligence: External factors affecting your business
• ? Proactive Automation: Automated reports and alerts

Think of it as having a business consultant available 24/7!

You can ask Shoppal AI almost anything about your business:

• ?? Performance Questions: "How are my sales this week?"
• ?? Inventory Questions: "What should I restock?"
• ?? Financial Questions: "How much profit did I make from bananas?"
• ?? Customer Questions: "When will John Doe return?"
• ?? Predictive Questions: "What's my sales forecast for next week?"
• ?? Improvement Questions: "What are three ways I can improve my business?"
• ?? Analysis Questions: "Can you give my business a performance rating?"

Just ask naturally - no technical jargon required!

Shoppal AI seamlessly integrates with your POS system:

• ?? Real-time Sync: All POS data automatically feeds into AI analysis
• ?? Unified Dashboard: View both POS and AI insights in one place
• ?? Smart Recommendations: AI suggests actions based on POS data
• ?? Cross-platform Access: Use both apps on the same device
• ?? Secure Integration: Your data remains private and secure

It's like having two powerful tools that work together perfectly!

Welcome to the comprehensive Shoppal Handbook!

Shoppal is a robust retail management application designed to streamline your business operations through two distinct modes:

• ?? Point of Sale (POS) Mode: For processing customer transactions at the counter
• ?? Back Office Mode: For managing inventory, finances, and analytics behind the scenes

This handbook serves as a detailed guide for creating a user-friendly document for your team, addressing specific queries such as switching from Back Office to POS without re-entering the account password.

Shoppal is a feature-rich platform tailored for retail businesses, offering tools for sales, inventory, cash flow, and more. Its dual-mode functionality ensures flexibility and efficiency.

Key Highlights:

• ?? POS Mode: Fast, touch-driven checkout optimized for tablets and phones
• ?? Back Office: Comprehensive management of sales, inventory, finances, and settings
• ?? Real-Time Analytics: Live sales and cashier metrics
• ?? Inventory Health: Monitor stock performance with automated restock alerts
• ?? Multi-Branch & Currencies: Centralized control across locations
• ?? Offline Support: Work offline and sync later
• ?? Shoppal AI: Instant business insights and alerts

To set up Shoppal for your business, follow these steps:

• ?? Add Cashiers:
  • Go to Shop ? Manage Cashiers ? Tap the "+" icon
  • Assign cashier codes for POS access
• ?? Add Inventory:
  • Use the Inventory tab to manually add products or import a CSV file
  • Sample CSV available at shoppal.org/download-csv.html
• ?? Set Up Devices:
  • Optional but recommended: Use one device for Back Office and another for POS
  • This avoids frequent mode-switching
• ?? Customize Settings:
  • Go to Manage/Settings to set your preferred theme and configure other options
• ?? Switch to POS Mode:
  • From the Home tab, tap the cashier's name, enter the access code, and start selling

Tip: Ensure cashiers are licensed and assigned to a branch for products to load in POS Mode.

Sales (Back Office)

The Sales tab provides live updates (when online) and detailed analytics.

Features:

• ?? Charts: 7-day bar, hourly breakdowns, and cashier-in-hand metrics
• ?? Actions: View transactions, search receipts, generate/export reports
• ?? Compare: Sales across branches and cashiers

How To:

• Tap the Sales tab
• Open the menu (? or ?)
• Select "View Sales," "Generate Reports," or "View Receipts"

Tip: Scroll to compare branch and cashier performance.

Inventory (Back Office)

Manage products efficiently with the Inventory tab.

Features:

• Add, edit, restock, or delete products
• Perform stocktakes, import/export via CSV, and view stock history

How To:

• Tap the Inventory tab
• Search for a product and tap it
• Use "Product Info" to edit, restock, view history, or delete
• From the menu, choose: "Add Product," "Stocktake," "Export Stock," or "Import Stock"

Tip: All inventory tools are accessible from this tab. CSV sample available at shoppal.org/download-csv.html

Shop Page (Back Office)

The Shop tab is a central hub for management and analytics.

Tools:

• ?? Switch to POS Mode
• ?? Suggested Reorders: Alerts for low-stock items
• ?? Inventory Health: Monitor stock performance
• ?? Sales Forecast: Predict revenue trends
• ?? Performance Stats: Key performance indicators (KPIs)
• ?? Daily Summary: Available if Cash Flow is enabled
• ?? Customers & Top Buyers: Manage profiles and track loyalty
• ?? Business Details: Manage cashiers, branches, and currencies
• ?? Financials: Income, invoices, expenses, and tax reports
• ?? Advertising: Promote your catalogue, locations, or ad profile

How To:

• Tap the Shop tab to access these tools
• Enable Cash Flow for full financial visibility

Product Catalog Management:

• ?? Adding Products: Name, SKU, barcode, category, description
• ?? Pricing: Cost price, selling price, wholesale pricing, tax rates
• ?? Stock Tracking: Current stock, minimum levels, reorder points
• ?? Product Images: Upload photos (max 2MB, optimized for mobile)

Stock Management:

• ?? Stock Taking: Physical counts, barcode scanning, variance reporting
• ?? Stock Adjustments: Record reasons for stock changes
• ?? Low Stock Alerts: Automatic notifications via email/SMS
• ?? Stock Reports: Movement history, aging analysis, valuation

Bulk Operations:

• ?? CSV Import/Export: Bulk product management
• ??? Category Management: Hierarchical organization
• ?? Advanced Search: Filter by category, stock level, price range

Customer Database:

• ?? Profile Creation: Contact info, preferences, purchase history
• ?? Quick Search: By name, phone, or recent transactions
• ?? Segmentation: Customer categories, loyalty tiers, purchase patterns
• ?? Lifetime Value: Track total spending and frequency

Communication:

• ?? Email Receipts: Digital receipts with branding
• ?? SMS Notifications: Transaction confirmations, reminders
• ?? Targeted Campaigns: Promotional messages, loyalty rewards
• ?? Automated Communication: Welcome messages, birthday greetings

Loyalty Programs:

• ? Points System: Earn points per purchase, redemption options
• ?? Tier Benefits: Bronze, Silver, Gold tiers with exclusive perks
• ?? Rewards Tracking: Points balance, expiration, redemption history
• ?? Program Analytics: Customer retention, program effectiveness

Expense Tracking:

• ?? Expense Categories: Operational costs, supplier payments, utilities
• ?? Receipt Management: Digital receipt storage and categorization
• ?? Budget Monitoring: Budget vs actual spending analysis
• ?? Tax Compliance: Tax-related expense tracking and reporting

Financial Reports:

• ?? Profit & Loss: Revenue, cost of goods sold, operating expenses
• ?? Cash Flow: Operating, investing, financing activities
• ?? Sales Reports: Daily/weekly/monthly sales analysis
• ?? Branch Performance: Multi-location sales comparison

Tax & Compliance:

• ?? VAT Reporting: Zimbabwe VAT (14.5%) calculations and filings
• ?? Tax Summaries: Quarterly and annual tax reports
• ?? Audit Trail: Complete transaction history for compliance
• ?? ZIMRA Integration: Automated tax authority reporting

AI Chat Assistant:

• ?? Natural Queries: Ask questions like "How are sales this week?"
• ?? Business Insights: Automated performance analysis
• ?? Sales Forecasting: AI-powered revenue predictions
• ?? Stock Optimization: Smart reorder recommendations
• ?? Market Intelligence: External factors affecting your business

Opportunity Finder:

• ?? Market Gaps: Identify underserved customer needs
• ?? Trend Analysis: Seasonal patterns and emerging opportunities
• ?? Business Recommendations: Actionable improvement suggestions
• ?? ROI Projections: Expected returns on new initiatives

Advanced Analytics:

• ?? Customer Segmentation: Automated customer grouping
• ?? Performance Metrics: KPIs, benchmarks, and comparisons
• ?? Pattern Recognition: Identify trends and anomalies
• ?? Automated Reports: Scheduled report generation and delivery

User Management:

• ?? Role-Based Access: Owner, Manager, Cashier permission levels
• ?? Access Control: Unique codes, session timeouts, activity logging
• ?? License Management: Free vs Premium features, expiry tracking
• ?? Password Policies: Strong password requirements, regular updates

Security Features:

• ?? Data Encryption: End-to-end encryption for all data
• ?? Cloud Security: Secure servers with regular backups
• ??? GDPR Compliance: International privacy standards
• ?? Audit Trails: Complete activity logging and monitoring

Integration & APIs:

• ?? Payment Processors: Card terminals, mobile money integration
• ?? Communication: SMS, email service connections
• ?? Third-Party Apps: Accounting software, CRM systems
• ?? Custom APIs: Developer access for custom integrations

Shoppal's dual-mode structure is central to its functionality. Below, we detail the purpose of each mode and clarify the process of switching between them.

Two Distinct Modes:

• ?? Back Office: Administrative hub for owners/managers
• ?? POS Mode: Frontline sales for cashiers

Each mode serves specific purposes and requires different access credentials for security.

The Back Office is the administrative hub of Shoppal, designed for owners or managers to oversee all business operations. Access requires the account password for security.

What the Back Office is for:

• ?? Sales Management:
  • View real-time sales charts (7-day bar, hourly breakdowns, cashier-in-hand)
  • Search receipts, view transactions, and generate/export reports
  • Compare sales across branches and cashiers
• ?? Inventory Management:
  • Add, edit, or delete products
  • Conduct stocktakes, import/export inventory via CSV
  • Restock items and review stock history
• ?? Cash Flow Tracking:
  • Monitor expenses, purchases, and profit/deficit (enable in Shop settings)
  • Access daily summaries and financial reports
• ?? Shop Management:
  • Manage customers, cashiers, branches, and currencies
  • Access analytics, including sales forecasts, inventory health, and suggested reorders
  • Handle business details, invoices, and tax reports
• ?? Settings:
  • Customize themes, configure Bluetooth printers, and manage account settings
  • Access help resources, privacy policies, and terms & conditions
• ??? Additional Tools:
  • Enable advertising features (catalogue, locations, ad profile)
  • Generate Z Reports and tax summaries

The Back Office is ideal for strategic tasks, such as analyzing performance, updating inventory, or configuring the system.

The POS (Point of Sale) Mode is designed for frontline sales, enabling cashiers to process transactions quickly and efficiently. Access requires a cashier access code, ensuring role-based security.

What POS Mode is for:

• ?? Sales Transactions:
  • Process sales via a touch-driven interface optimized for tablets and phones
  • Add products to the cart, adjust quantities, and search items using the top bar
  • Support multiple payment methods: Cash, Deferred, Card, Transfer
  • For cash payments, enter the received amount, and the system auto-calculates change
• ?? Customer Tracking:
  • Optionally add customer names and phone numbers, saved automatically for future reference
• ?? Receipt Management:
  • View and edit receipts (on phones, tap the cart icon to display the receipt; tablets show it by default)
  • Print receipts via Bluetooth printers
• ?? End-of-Day Tasks:
  • Perform reconciliations, view transactions, and generate Z Reports via the avatar menu (top right)
  • Note: Sales cancellations require Back Office access by the owner

POS Mode is perfect for cashiers or staff focused on serving customers and completing sales in real-time.

A key feature you asked about is switching from Back Office to POS without a password. Here's how it works:

• ?? Initial Login: When you open Shoppal, you log in with your account password to access the Back Office. This authenticates you as the user (typically the owner or admin).
• ?? Switching to POS Mode:
  • Navigate to the Home tab or Shop tab
  • Tap the cashier's name
  • Enter the cashier access code
• ? No Account Password Required for Switching: Once logged into the Back Office with the account password, switching to POS Mode requires only the cashier access code�not the account password again. This streamlines the workflow, especially on a single device used for both modes.
• ?? Security Note: The cashier code ensures that only authorized staff can process sales, maintaining role-based access control (Owner vs. Cashier).

Recommendation: For optimal efficiency, use two devices�one dedicated to Back Office and another to POS�to minimize switching. However, the single-device workflow is seamless thanks to the cashier-code-only requirement for POS access.

Summary:

• Back Office Access: Requires the account password
• POS Mode Access: Requires the cashier access code
• Switching from Back Office to POS: No account password needed; just enter the cashier code

Shoppal's interface is tab-based, with the active tab highlighted in orange. The tabs, located at the bottom of the screen, serve as the control center.

Back Office Tabs:

• ?? Sales: Real-time charts, reports, receipts, and exports
• ?? Inventory: Add/edit products, perform stocktakes, import/export, restock, and view history
• ?? Cash Flow: Track expenses, purchases, and profit/deficit (enable in Shop settings)
• ?? Shop: Switch to POS, manage customers, cashiers, branches, currencies, and analytics
• ?? Manage/Settings: Change themes, access help resources, and manage account settings

POS Mode Tabs:

• ?? Home: Entry point for POS (requires cashier code)
• ?? Settings (in POS): Configure store settings, switch to Back Office, and manage Bluetooth printers

Tip: Familiarize yourself with the tabs to navigate efficiently. The orange highlight indicates your current tab.

Selling in POS Mode is intuitive and optimized for speed.

Steps:

1. Switch to POS Mode via the Shop tab and log in with the cashier code
2. The product list appears (products load only if the cashier is licensed and assigned to a branch)
3. On phones, tap the cart icon to view the receipt; tablets show it by default
4. Tap a product to add it to the cart; adjust quantity with +/-
5. Search for products using the top bar
6. Tap "Complete" to open the checkout modal
7. Select the currency (if multiple currencies are enabled)
8. Choose a payment method: Cash, Deferred, Card, or Transfer
9. For Cash: Enter the received amount; the system calculates change
10. Optionally add the customer's name/phone (saved automatically)
11. Tap "Process Payment" to finalize the sale

Tip: Use a tablet for a larger, more visible receipt view.

Reconcile sales and close out the day.

Steps:

• Tap the avatar (top right)
• Choose from options: View transactions, generate Z Report, reconcile, manage expenses, or manage customers

Note: Sales cancellations are restricted to the Back Office and require owner access.

Customize and configure Shoppal via the Settings menu.

Actions:

• Toggle themes (light/dark)
• Add Bluetooth printers (configure in Printer Management)
• Access help resources and licensing details
• Switch between Owner and Cashier access
• Manage account: Change email/password, delete account, restore purchases, or verify email
• View Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions

How To:

• In Back Office: Go to Manage/Settings
• In POS: Access Settings via the avatar menu

Security is our top priority. We implement enterprise-level security measures:

• ?? End-to-End Encryption: All data is encrypted in transit and at rest
• ??? Role-Based Access: Separate admin and cashier accounts
• ?? Unique Access Codes: Secure authentication for each user
• ?? Cloud Security: Data stored on secure, redundant servers
• ?? Regular Backups: Automatic daily backups
• ?? Audit Trails: Complete activity logging
• ?? GDPR Compliant: Meets international privacy standards

Your business data is as secure as online banking!

Shoppal offers a robust set of features to support both modes:

• ?? POS Mode: Fast, touch-driven checkout
• ?? Real-Time Analytics: Live sales and cashier metrics
• ?? Inventory Health: Monitor stock performance
• ?? Suggested Reorders: Automated restock alerts
• ?? Sales Forecast: Predict revenue trends
• ?? Stocktakes & CSV: Quick import/export of inventory
• ?? Cash Flow: Track expenses, purchases, and profit/deficit
• ?? Customer Management: Profiles and invoices
• ?? Multi-Branch & Currencies: Centralized control
• ?? Z & Tax Reports: Daily and tax summaries
• ?? Role-Based Access: Owner vs. Cashier codes
• ??? Bluetooth Printing: Seamless receipt printing
• ?? Offline Support: Work offline, sync later
• ?? Shoppal AI: Instant business insights and alerts

Shoppal provides solutions for common issues to keep your operations running smoothly.

Common printer problems and solutions:

• Check Power & Connection: Ensure the printer is powered on, paired via Bluetooth, and has paper
• Restart Devices: Restart the printer and device
• Test Connection: Go to Settings > Printer Management to test or reconnect
• Check Paper: Ensure there's enough paper and it's properly loaded
• Bluetooth Settings: Verify Bluetooth is enabled and printer is discoverable

If products aren't showing in POS Mode:

• Check Cashier Assignment: Products load only if the cashier is licensed and assigned to a branch
• Verify Settings: Confirm settings in the Back Office or contact your admin
• Check Branch Assignment: Ensure the cashier is assigned to the correct branch
• Inventory Status: Verify products are active and have stock

Password recovery options:

• Reset Password: Tap "Forgot Password" on the login screen to reset
• Reinstall App: If stuck on a logged-out screen, reinstall the app to return to login
• Contact Support: If you can't access your account, contact our support team

If sales aren't appearing:

• Check Sync: Sales may take time to sync; ensure both devices have internet
• Verify Transactions: Check Sales > Transactions in the Back Office
• Manual Sync: Use the "Sync Data" option from the menu
• Internet Connection: Ensure stable internet connection for real-time sync

If inventory data is missing:

• Manual Sync: Use the "Sync Data" option from the menu (data syncs automatically every hour)
• Check Internet: Ensure stable connection for data synchronization
• Refresh App: Close and reopen the app to refresh data

Performance optimization tips:

• Close Apps: Close unused apps to free up memory
• Restart Device: Restart your device regularly
• Check Internet: Ensure you have a stable internet connection
• Update App: Ensure you're using the latest app version
• Clear Cache: Clear app cache if available

If receipt isn't displaying:

• Phone Users: On phones, tap the cart icon to view/edit the receipt (hidden by default)
• Tablet Users: Tablets show receipts by default
• Check Settings: Verify receipt display settings

If cashier access code isn't working:

• Check Code: Codes may be changed or deactivated by an admin; confirm you're using the latest valid code
• Contact Admin: Ask your account administrator to verify the code
• Reset Code: Admin can reset the cashier access code if needed

Performance optimization tips:

• ?? Device Optimization: Close unnecessary apps, clear cache, restart device
• ?? App Updates: Ensure you're using the latest app version
• ?? Memory Management: Free up device storage space
• ?? Network: Check internet connection speed and stability
• ?? Large Dataset: Archive old data or optimize database queries
• ? Hardware: Consider device with more RAM for large inventories

If data isn't syncing properly:

• ?? Network Check: Ensure stable internet connection
• ?? Manual Sync: Go to "Settings" ? "Synchronization" ? "Force Sync"
• ? Timing: Allow time for automatic sync (every hour)
• ?? Conflicts: Resolve any sync conflicts by choosing correct version
• ?? Offline Mode: Switch to offline mode during network issues
• ??? Duplicates: Use "Data Management" to clean up duplicate records

Card payment troubleshooting:

• ?? Connection: Verify terminal is properly connected via Bluetooth/Wi-Fi
• ?? Restart: Power cycle payment terminal and device
• ?? Configuration: Reconfigure terminal settings in app
• ?? Card Validity: Check if card is expired or has insufficient funds
• ?? Provider: Contact payment processor for terminal-specific issues
• ?? Security: Ensure terminal firmware is up to date

EcoCash/OneMoney troubleshooting:

• ?? Network: Check mobile network signal strength
• ?? Balance: Verify sufficient funds in mobile wallet
• ?? Merchant Code: Confirm correct merchant code is configured
• ? Timeout: Allow sufficient time for transaction processing
• ?? Retry: Retry transaction if initial attempt fails
• ?? Support: Contact EcoCash/OneMoney support for account issues

Detailed printer issue resolution:

• ?? Print Head: Clean print head with approved cleaner
• ?? Paper Quality: Use correct thermal paper type, avoid damp paper
• ?? Alignment: Check paper alignment and roller condition
• ? Power: Ensure stable power supply to printer
• ?? Firmware: Update printer firmware if available
• ?? Hardware: Check for loose connections or damaged cables

Scanner issue resolution:

• ?? Cleaning: Clean scanner window with soft cloth
• ?? Battery: Check battery level and charging status
• ?? Connection: Re-pair Bluetooth connection
• ?? Settings: Recalibrate scanner sensitivity
• ?? Distance: Ensure proper scanning distance (4-12 inches)
• ?? Lighting: Improve lighting conditions for better scans

Security and access troubleshooting:

• ?? Password Reset: Use "Forgot Password" for account recovery
• ?? Role Permissions: Verify user has correct access level
• ? Session Timeout: Check session timeout settings
• ?? Account Lockout: Contact admin for account unlock
• ?? Device Authorization: Re-authorize device if needed
• ?? Two-Factor: Verify 2FA setup and backup codes

Report generation problems:

• ?? Date Range: Verify correct date range selection
• ?? Data Sync: Ensure all data is synchronized before generating reports
• ?? Permissions: Check if user has report generation permissions
• ?? Data Integrity: Verify data accuracy and completeness
• ?? Storage: Ensure sufficient storage for report generation
• ?? Processing: Allow time for large report generation

If you need additional help:

• ?? FAQ Page: Visit shoppal.org/faq.html
• ?? Email Support: support@shoppal.org
• ?? WhatsApp: +1 (518) 940-3904
• ?? Phone Support: +1 (518) 940-3904

For support or additional resources, use the following channels:

• ?? Email: contact@shoppal.org
• ?? Website: shoppal.org for guides and resources
• ?? WhatsApp: +1 (518) 940-3904
• ?? Social Media:
  • Facebook: facebook.com/shoppalzw
  • Instagram: instagram.com/shoppalorg
  • X (Twitter): x.com/ShoppalOrg
• ?? Legal Links:
  • Privacy Policy: shoppal.org/privacy-policy.html
  • Terms & Conditions: shoppal.org/terms-and-conditions.html

Shoppal's two modes�Back Office for administrative control and POS Mode for efficient sales�make it a versatile solution for retail businesses.

• ?? Back Office: Accessed with an account password, empowers you to manage sales, inventory, cash flow, and settings
• ?? POS Mode: Accessed with a cashier code, ensures fast and secure transactions
• ?? Seamless Switching: Switching from Back Office to POS requires only the cashier code, streamlining operations on a single device
• ?? Real-time Analytics: Live insights and comprehensive reporting
• ?? Offline Support: Continue operations without internet connectivity
• ?? Shoppal AI: Instant business insights and intelligent recommendations

Use this handbook to:

• Train your team effectively
• Troubleshoot common issues
• Maximize Shoppal's potential for your business
• Ensure proper role-based access (Owner vs. Cashier)

Note: Ensure your team is familiar with role-based access (Owner vs. Cashier) and keeps cashier codes secure. For further assistance, reach out to Shoppal's support channels.

Essential pre-opening checklist to ensure smooth operations:

• ?? Device Check: Ensure POS device is charged (minimum 80% battery)
• ?? Network: Verify stable internet connection for data sync
• ??? Printer: Check paper supply and test print functionality
• ?? Scanner: Test barcode scanner functionality
• ?? Licenses: Verify all cashier licenses are active
• ?? Opening Float: Set cash drawer opening balance

Opening Sequence:

1. Power on POS device and peripherals
2. Launch Shoppal POS app
3. Select cashier profile and enter access code
4. Verify all features are working
5. Enter starting cash amount

Quick product search methods:

• ?? Search by Name: Type product name in search bar
• ?? Scan Barcode: Point scanner at barcode for instant lookup
• ?? Browse Categories: Tap category ? select product
• ? Favorites: Access frequently used products quickly

Product Selection Shortcuts:

• ?? Tap Product: Add to receipt instantly
• ???? Double Tap: Quick quantity entry
• ?? Swipe Left: Remove item from receipt
• ?? Swipe Right: View product details/options

Payment Methods:

• ?? Cash: Enter received amount (system calculates change)
• ?? Card: Process through terminal
• ?? Mobile Money: EcoCash/OneMoney integration
• ?? Bank Transfer: For large transactions
• ?? Customer Account: Apply to customer balance

Discount Application:

• ??? Item Discount: Tap item ? Discount button
• ?? Receipt Discount: Tap total ? Apply discount
• % Percentage: Enter % (e.g., 10%)
• $ Fixed Amount: Enter $ amount (e.g., 5.00)

Essential keyboard shortcuts for efficient operation:

• F1: Help/Documentation
• F2: Search products
• F3: Customer search
• F4: Payment screen
• F5: Print receipt
• F6: New transaction
• F7: Hold transaction
• F8: Recall transaction
• F9: Cash drawer
• F10: End of day
• F11: Manager functions
• F12: Logout

Cash Reconciliation:

1. Count physical cash by denomination
2. Compare with POS reported totals
3. Note and investigate discrepancies
4. Prepare deposit slip

Daily Reporting:

• ?? Daily Sales Summary
• ?? Cashier Performance
• ?? Product Movement
• ?? Customer Transactions
• ?? Tax Summary

Closing Sequence:

1. Complete all pending sales
2. Reconcile cash drawer
3. Generate and save daily reports
4. Ensure data is synchronized
5. Secure logout from all devices
6. Power off equipment safely

System Crash:

• Stay calm and inform customers
• Switch to manual mode if possible
• Note last transaction details
• Restart POS device
• Resume operations
• Report incident to manager

Power Failure:

• Complete current transaction manually
• Secure cash and equipment
• Switch to backup power if available
• Use mobile data for critical functions
• Resume normal operations when power returns

Network Issues:

• Check Wi-Fi/mobile data connection
• Switch to available network
• Continue with offline mode
• Sync data when connection returns
• Process online transactions when possible

Hardware Requirements:

• iOS: iPhone 8 or later, iOS 12.0+
• Android: Android 8.0+ (API level 26)
• RAM: Minimum 2GB, recommended 4GB+
• Storage: 500MB free space
• Display: Minimum 4.7-inch screen

Essential Equipment:

• ??? Thermal Receipt Printer (Bluetooth-enabled)
• ?? Barcode Scanner (Bluetooth or USB)
• ?? Cash Drawer (optional)
• ?? Card Reader (optional)
• ?? Stable Wi-Fi/4G Connection

Step 1: Create Your Account

1. Download Shoppal POS from App Store or Google Play Store
2. Open the app and select "Sign Up"
3. Enter your business information
4. Verify your email address
5. Complete your business profile

Step 2: Business Profile Setup

• ?? Basic Information: Legal name, trading name, registration number
• ?? Address: Physical and postal addresses
• ?? Contact: Primary/secondary phone, email, website
• ??? Branding: Upload logo, set brand colors

Step 3: Tax Configuration

• Set Zimbabwe VAT rate (14.5%)
• Configure zero-rated and exempt items
• Assign tax rates to product categories

Step 1: Create Product Categories

• Navigate to "Inventory" ? "Categories"
• Create hierarchical category structure
• Examples: Food & Beverages, Household Items, Services
• Assign tax rates to categories

Step 2: Add Products

• ?? Basic Info: Name, SKU, barcode, category
• ?? Pricing: Cost price, selling price, wholesale price
• ?? Stock Info: Current stock, minimum stock, reorder point
• ?? Images: Upload product photos (max 2MB, JPG/PNG)

Step 3: Bulk Import

• Download CSV template from app
• Fill in product information
• Import through "Inventory" ? "Import"
• Map columns and validate import

Step 1: Add Cashiers

• Go to "Back Office" ? "Store" ? "Cashiers"
• Enter: First name, last name, employee ID, phone, email
• Assign branch and permission level
• Create unique 4-6 digit access code

Step 2: License Assignment

• ?? Free License: Basic functionality, limited features
• ?? Premium License: Full access, AI features, unlimited products
• Assign license type to each cashier
• Set expiry dates and renewal reminders

Step 3: Training

• Cover login/logout procedures
• Product search and transaction processing
• Customer management and payment methods
• End-of-day reconciliation

Printer Setup:

1. Ensure printer is powered on and Bluetooth enabled
2. Go to "Settings" ? "Hardware" ? "Printers"
3. Click "Add Printer" and select from Bluetooth devices
4. Test print functionality
5. Configure: Type (58mm/80mm), speed, paper type

Barcode Scanner Setup:

1. Pair Bluetooth scanner with device
2. Go to "Settings" ? "Hardware" ? "Scanners"
3. Select scanner type and configure settings
4. Test scanning functionality
5. Set beep sounds and timeout

Receipt Customization:

• Add business logo and branding
• Configure receipt layout and footer
• Set promotional messages
• Choose print options (customer/merchant copies)

Currency Configuration:

• Go to "Settings" ? "Payments" ? "Currencies"
• Set primary currency (ZWL) and secondary (USD)
• Configure exchange rates (auto-update recommended)
• Set up cash denomination templates

Card Payment Setup:

• Connect payment terminal via Bluetooth/Wi-Fi
• Configure terminal settings in app
• Test payment processing
• Set up transaction fees and limits

Mobile Money Integration:

• Configure EcoCash/OneMoney settings
• Set up merchant codes
• Test payment flow
• Verify account balances

Pre-Launch Testing:

• ?? Hardware: Test all peripherals (printer, scanner, terminal)
• ?? Payments: Process test transactions with all payment methods
• ?? Inventory: Verify product loading and stock levels
• ?? Users: Test cashier login and permissions
• ?? Reports: Generate and verify report accuracy
• ?? Sync: Test data synchronization

Go-Live Checklist:

• ? All hardware configured and tested
• ? Business information complete and accurate
• ? All products entered with correct pricing
• ? Cashiers trained and licensed
• ? Payment methods configured
• ? Receipt templates customized
• ? Opening inventory counts entered
• ? Customer database populated (optional)
• ? Backup procedures tested
• ? Data synchronization verified

Launch Day Procedures:

1. Verify all devices charged and connected
2. Test transaction processing
3. Confirm receipt printing
4. Brief staff on procedures
5. Monitor first few transactions

Shoppal offers flexible pricing to fit your business needs:

• ?? 14-Day Free Trial: Full access to all features
• ?? Shoppal POS: Affordable monthly subscription
• ?? Shoppal AI: Separate AI assistant subscription
• ?? Bundle Deals: Save when you use both apps
• ?? Enterprise Plans: Custom pricing for large businesses

Contact us for detailed pricing information tailored to your business size!

Yes! We offer a generous 14-day free trial with some limitations:

• ?? Inventory Limit: Up to 256 items during trial
• ?? Cashier Limit: Up to 2 cashier accounts
• ?? Full Features: Access to all core functionality
• ?? Easy Upgrade: Seamless transition to paid plan
• ?? No Credit Card: Required for trial signup

Start your trial today and see how Shoppal can transform your business!

Absolutely! You have complete control over your subscription:

• ?? No Long-term Contracts: Month-to-month billing
• ? Cancel Anytime: No cancellation fees
• ?? Data Export: Download your data before canceling
• ?? Easy Reactivation: Resume service anytime
• ?? Support Available: We're here to help with any issues

We want you to be happy with Shoppal, not locked into a contract!