If your POS system is not sending orders to the kitchen, follow these steps to troubleshoot the issue and minimize disruption to service.
Step 1: Check POS System Status
- Network Connectivity: Ensure the POS terminal has a stable connection to the internet. Check for Wi-Fi or Ethernet connections, as network issues can prevent orders from being sent.
- System Power: Make sure the POS terminal is powered on and functioning. Restart it if necessary to reset any software glitches.
- POS Software Update: Sometimes, an outdated POS system can cause issues. Check if there are any pending updates and, if so, install them.
Step 2: Check Kitchen Printer or Kitchen Display
- Printer Power and Connectivity: Ensure the kitchen printer is plugged in, powered on, and connected to the POS system (via cable or network). For kitchen displays, confirm the screen is on and receiving input from the POS.
- Paper and Ink/Toner: If using a kitchen printer, ensure it has paper and sufficient ink or toner.
- Print Queue: On the kitchen printer, check for any stalled print jobs. Clear any that may be holding up the system and try sending a test order.
Step 3: Test Order Functionality
- Send a Test Order: Try placing a test order to see if it goes through to the kitchen. This can help determine if the issue is intermittent or persistent.
- Alternative POS Terminal: If your location has multiple POS terminals, try sending an order from a different terminal to see if the issue is specific to one terminal.
Step 4: Restart POS and Kitchen Systems
- Restart the POS terminal and kitchen printer/display to reset any temporary glitches.
- If orders still aren’t going through, restart the router to reset the network connection.
Step 5: Switch to Offline Mode (if available)
Many POS systems have an offline mode that allows orders to be processed locally and sent to the kitchen once connectivity is restored. Check if your POS system has this feature and activate it to keep taking orders.
Step 6: Notify the Kitchen
While troubleshooting, keep the kitchen informed so they know orders may be delayed. If needed, print paper tickets from a backup printer or verbally communicate orders until the issue is resolved.
Step 7: Contact Technical Support
If the above steps do not resolve the issue, contact your POS system’s technical support team. Provide them with details about the issue and the troubleshooting steps you’ve taken.