In the highly competitive retail sector, the adoption of a robust and user-centric Point of Sale (POS) system is essential for streamlining business operations. Odoo 18, the latest release of the distinguished open-source ERP, offers an advanced and intuitive POS module meticulously crafted to enhance retail efficiency. This blog provides a detailed and professional guide to effectively configuring your retail establishment with the Odoo 18 Point of Sale solution.
Key Features of Odoo 18 POS
Before we begin the setup, let’s take a look at what Odoo 18 POS has in store for us:
Product Management System: Arrange products with essential information including prices, stock availability, and photographs.
Seamless Transactions: Handle sales efficiently, ranging from rapid cash transactions to thorough invoicing for business customers.
Real-Time Inventory Monitoring: Keep track of stock levels instantly to avoid shortages or excess inventory.
Customer Relationship Management: Develop a client database for tailored services and focused promotional campaigns.
Detailed Analytics: Review reports on sales dynamics and inventory efficiency.
Customizable Payment Methods: Provide different payment options to align with customer preferences.
Getting Started with Odoo 18 POS
Ensure Odoo 18 is installed, choosing either the Community or Enterprise edition based on your needs. To enable the POS module:
Log in to the Odoo dashboard > Go to the Apps menu, search for Point of Sale, and install it > Open the Point of Sale module to view the POS Dashboard.
To start a new POS session, go to the Dashboard and select New Session from the shop list view. You can also create a new shop by navigating to the Configuration menu and clicking the New Shop button in the Settings window.
Creating a New Shop
Clicking New Shop opens a setup wizard where you can:
Please provide the name of your Point of Sale / Shop.
You can optionally turn on Bar/Restaurant Mode (leave it unchecked for a regular retail shop).
Once you have filled in the shop information, click on Save and head back to the POS Dashboard to see the newly added shop. Select New Session to access the shop interface, but ensure you set up the following crucial configurations before initiating any sales.
Configuration Steps
1. Setting Up Products
To add items to your store, go to the Products section and click on Products. You can create or modify items by providing information such as Name, Description, Category, Price, and Images to enhance their visual appeal.
This procedure is consistent with product setup in other Odoo modules like Sales or Inventory.
2. Setting Up Price Lists
Odoo 18 enables the creation of multiple pricing lists for various customer demographics or promotional events. Access Products > Pricelists to configure price lists based on: Customer classifications, Bulk purchase discounts, Seasonal offers.
For example, select or create a pricelist like "Retail USD" tailored to your shop’s needs.
3. Creating Product Combos
With Odoo 18, product bundling is taken to the next level. Access Products > Product Combos to assemble related items, promoting sales and streamlining the buying process.
4. Configuring Payment Methods
Optimize your payment process by adding your preferred methods. Go to the Payments section in the Settings window:
Select predefined payment methods (e.g., cash, credit cards, mobile payments).
Create custom payment methods via the Payment Methods link if needed.
5. Personalizing Receipts
Modify your receipts to represent your brand effectively. In the Settings window, go to the Bills & Receipts section to add your logo, input your contact details, and include any other relevant information to enhance professionalism.
6. Setting Sales Taxes
Ensure compliance with local tax regulations by meticulously configuring your tax settings. Within the Settings window, access the Accounting tab to establish:
Default Sales Tax
Flexible Taxes for specific products
Fiscal Positions based on location or customer type
7. Integrating Payment Terminals
Activate payment terminals to support various payment methods (such as debit and credit cards). In the Settings menu, set up integrations with services like Stripe, Adyen, or Paytm.
8. Connecting Hardware
For shops using devices like barcode scanners, receipt printers, or cash drawers, configure them in the Settings window’s Connected Devices tab. Odoo 18 supports seamless hardware integration, with or without an IoT Box. Test devices thoroughly before going live.
Running the Shop and Handling Orders
To begin a new session, navigate to the POS Dashboard, select your store, and click on the New Session button. This will bring up the store interface, where you can view products categorized by type (such as Clothing, Electronics, and Accessories), complete with their names, prices, and images.
Placing Orders
Select products to create an order.
Check order details (unit prices, quantities, total) on the left.
Use Customer Notes for special requests or Refund for returns.
Check the summary of your order, which includes subtotals and tax information.
Processing Payments and Invoices
Access the payment screen by clicking on Payment.
Pick a payment option (cash, bank, or customer account).
Enter the amount you wish to pay and click Validate.
Create an invoice by selecting the Invoice button.
Printing Receipts
Click Print Receipt to print or email receipts.
Use New Order to start a new order without returning to the shop window.
Also we can see the header and footer that we added in the receipt.
Managing Sessions
Track sessions via the Orders tab’s Sessions option. This opens the POS Dashboard, displaying active sessions and their details.
Integrating Odoo 18 Point of Sale into your retail establishment optimizes operational efficiency and significantly enhances customer engagement. This meticulously crafted guide provides a systematic approach to customizing the POS system to align with your specific business objectives. With Odoo 18’s robust and intuitive POS module, you are well-equipped to navigate market fluctuations and sustain a competitive position in the industry.