Overview

This guide will walk you through the entire process of setting up gift cards in iVendNext, from initial configuration to advanced features that enhance their functionality.

Prerequisites

Before creating a gift card, ensure you have:
✔ Admin or Retail Manager access in iVendNext.
✔ A clear understanding of Gift Card types (System Defined vs. User Defined).
✔ Decide whether the card will be digital, physical, or both.

Understanding Gift Card Types in iVendNext

System Defined vs. User Defined Gift Cards

Before creating a gift card, it's important to understand the two main types available in iVendNext:

1. System Defined Gift Cards

• Pre-configured templates

• Standardized format and design

• Quick setup with minimal customization

• Ideal for businesses needing immediate deployment

2. User Defined Gift Cards

• Fully customizable designs

• Flexible value and expiration settings

• Branding integration (logos, colors)

• Requires more setup time but offers greater control

Step-by-Step Creation Process

Step 1: Accessing the Gift Card Creation Interface

1. Log in to your iVendNext account with administrator privileges.

2. Navigate to: Retail > Items and Pricing > Item.

3. Click the "Add Item" button to begin creating a new gift card product.

Step 2: Configuring Basic Gift Card Properties

In the New Item screen:

1. Select the appropriate Item Group (e.g., "Gift Cards").

2. Choose the Default Unit of Measure (typically "Each").

3. Uncheck the "Maintain Stock" option (since gift cards are non-inventory items).

4. Check the "Is Gift Card" checkbox to enable gift card-specific settings.

Note: The screen will refresh, and new tabs like Gift Card Detail will appear.

Step 3: Setting Up Gift Card Details

Switch to the Gift Card Detail Tab to configure:

1. Gift Card Type

• System Defined: Pre-built templates (limited customization).

• User Defined: Fully customizable (branding, values, etc.).

2. Expiry Settings

• Expiry Days: Set validity (e.g., 365 days). Default "0" means no expiry.

3. Value Options

• Fixed value or open amount.

• Minimum and maximum value limits.

4. Print Format

• Define how the Gift Card appears when printed (e.g., barcode layout).

Step 4: Enable Advanced Features (Optional)

Under the same tab, toggle these settings based on business needs:

Pro Tip: Enable Recharge and Multiple Redemptions to encourage repeat usage.

Step 5: Save and Activate the Gift Card

1. Click Save to finalize.

2. The Gift Card is now ready to be sold at POS or distributed digitally.

Additional Configuration Options

The following optional features are available for configuration:

• Use as Store Credit: 

Let customers reuse refunds as store credit 

• Cashback: 

Enable reward on purchases via gift card

• Recharge: 

Allow gift card recharge at POS

• Open Price: 

Let cashiers define the card’s sale price at POS

• Must Swipe Card: 

Enforce swiping at POS instead of manual entry

• Allow Multiple Redemptions: 

Permit repeated use for multiple purchases

Troubleshooting Common Issues

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

❌ Gift Card not appearing at POS?

• Verify the Item Group is assigned correctly.

• Ensure the "Is Gift Card" checkbox is enabled.

❌ Expired cards still active?

• Double-check Expiry Days (0 = no expiry).

❌ Card Not Recognized at POS?

• Verify activation status.

• Check for system updates.

❌ Balance Display Errors?

• Review transaction history.

• Check for pending authorizations.