Add Products & Services via Barcode Scanning

Overview

This feature allows merchants to quickly create new products or services in Y-POS by scanning a barcode.
When a barcode is scanned, the system automatically starts the product creation flow, prompting the user to select an existing category or create a new one.
Each product or service must belong to a category to ensure proper organisation, reporting and inventory tracking.

How the Feature Works (Detailed Explanation)

1. User opens the “Add Product / Service” screen.
   They can choose between manually entering information or scanning a barcode.

2. User scans the barcode using the device camera.
   Y-POS captures the barcode and checks whether the item already exists in the merchant’s catalog.

3. If the product does not exist:

   • The system opens a “Create New Item” form.

   • The barcode value is automatically filled in.

4. Category selection is mandatory:

   • The user must choose an existing category from the dropdown list.

   • If the category does not exist, they can tap “Create Category” and instantly create a new one.

5. User completes product details:

   • Item name

   • Price

   • Stock quantity (if applicable)

   • Cost price (optional)

   • Description (optional)

6. User saves the item, and it becomes available in the catalog for selling via the Y-POS terminal or app.

Step-by-Step Instructions (for End Users) Adding a Product or Service Using Barcode Scanning

1. Open the Products & Services section in Y-POS.

2. Tap “Add New Item”.

3. Select “Scan Barcode”.

4. Point your device camera at the barcode until the system recognises it.

5. If the item is not found, you will be taken to the Create Item screen.

6. Fill in required fields:

   • Name

   • Price

   • Category (choose or create)

7. (Optional) Enter additional information such as cost price or description.

8. Tap Save.

9. The new item will appear in your catalog and will be ready for use at checkout.

Category Management Logic

• Every item must belong to a category.

• Categories help structure the catalog and improve reporting and inventory management.

• Users can:

  • Choose from existing categories

  • Create new categories on the fly without leaving the item creation screen

• Categories persist and can be reused for future products.

FAQ 1. Why do I have to select a category?

Categories help to organise your catalog and ensure accurate reporting, filtering, and inventory control. Without a category, the item cannot be created.

2. Can I create my own categories?

Yes. If your product or service doesn’t fit into an existing category, you can create a new one instantly during item creation.

3. What if the barcode is not recognised?

You can still create the product manually. The barcode field will remain editable, so you can enter the value manually if needed.

4. Can I add services using a barcode?

Yes. Barcodes can be used for both products and services if you want to identify them faster.

5. Can I edit the item after it's created?

Yes, you can modify the name, price, category, or any other detail at any time from the catalog.