Overview

This article walks you through creating and optimizing an Auto Lookup Profile, complete with visual aids and expert tips.

Before You Begin: Key Concepts

Let’s look at the key concepts:

What is an Auto Lookup Profile?

An intelligent configuration that:

• Automatically fetches data during transactions

• Reduces manual entry by up to 80%

• Works seamlessly with barcode scanners and touchscreen inputs

When to Use Auto Lookup

✔ High-volume checkout environments
✔ Stores with complex item catalogs
✔ Businesses using loyalty programs
✔ Locations with seasonal staff turnover

Pro Tip: Create different profiles for various departments (e.g., separate setups for apparel vs. electronics).

Step 1: Accessing the Auto Lookup Profile Section

1. Log in to your iVendNext admin console

2. Navigate through:
   Home > Retail > POS Interface and Controls

3. Click the Auto Lookup Profile shortcut

Step 2: Configuring Basic Settings

Profile Identification

• Profile Name: Use clear, descriptive names (e.g., "Electronics Dept - Barcode Lookup")

• Description: Note the profile's purpose and scope

Data Source Selection

Choose from:

• Product database

• Customer records

• Inventory system

• Promotions database

Trigger Configuration

Set what initiates the lookup: ☑ Barcode scan
☑ Manual product code entry
☑ Customer ID input
☑ Touchscreen item selection

Step 3: Defining Lookup Parameters

Filter Settings

Create rules to refine results:

• Inventory Filter: "Only show in-stock items"

• Category Filter: "Limit to current department"

• Price Filter: "Exclude items below $10"

Sorting Preferences

Prioritize how results display:

1. Best-selling items first

2. Highest-margin products

3. Alphabetical order

4. Promotional items

Step 4: Setting Up Display Options

Information to Display

Select which fields appear:

• Product name

• Current price

• Available discounts

• Stock quantity

• Product image

Layout Customization

• Choose between list or grid view

• Set font sizes for readability

• Configure highlight colors for special items

Best Practice: Limit displayed fields to 5-7 key items to prevent clutter.

Step 5: Testing & Validation

1. Click Show Preview to simulate transactions

2. Test various scenarios:

• Regular item scan

• Out-of-stock items

• Customer loyalty lookups

3. Verify:

• Response time (<0.5 seconds ideal)

• Data accuracy

• Error handling

Step 6: Activation & Staff Training

Going Live

1. Click Save to activate the profile

2. Assign to appropriate POS terminals

3. Set activation schedule if needed

Training Checklist

• Demonstrate lookup triggers

• Show error resolution

• Explain sorting logic

• Practice with common scenarios

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here’s a quick look at some common issues you might run into.