Welcome to the Point of Sale (POS) application documentation for iOS. This application is designed to simplify in-store sales and transaction management.
The Common Ground mobile Point Of Sale allows every account on the platform to complete transactions with their customers. It operates via the Internet offering flexibility and remote access to business data.
Requirements
One iOS device(iPhone or iPad) running iOS 17
One Stripe account in the supported region
One card reader by Stripe (BBPOS WidePad3 / M2) - order from Stripe
Vocabulary
POS: "POS" stands for "Point of Sale." It refers to the place and time where a retail transaction is completed.
Checkout: refers to the process and the specific area where customers complete their purchase transactions in a retail environment.
Device / Tablet: This usually refers to your iOS device, either iPhone or iPad
Terminal / Card Reader: Refers to the hardware devices used to facilitate transactions between the merchant and the customer.
Installation
App Store download
Open the App Store on your iOS device.
Search for “Common Ground POS app”.
Press “Download”
Once installed, open the application.
App store link
Register your iOS device
From Backoffice, create a reader location and register your iOS device for your Common Ground account. The location will ensure the reader can be configured for the right country. A passcode creation will be required on first login.
Terminal setup guide
We work closely with Stripe to ensure a flawless checkout experience. The currently supported reader is BBPOS WidePad3 or M2 (United States). Please ensure this reader is compatible with your region.
This guide assumes that you already own a Stripe account connected to your Common Ground account
Order the BBPOS WisePad 3 or M2 directly from your Stripe account
Download the Common Ground POS app from the App Store
Create a reader location with your business address from the POS settings
Connect your terminal reader to the iOS app (an firmware update might occur on first connexion)
Note: the reader cannot be connected via the Bluetooth preferences of your device
Stripe Terminal Regional support
Due to local payment methods or regulations, some country-specific requirements apply.
Paypal PayMe link via QR code
From your Backoffice Paypal preferences, add the PayMe URL provided by Paypal in order to have the Paypal QR code showing at checkout time
Checkout a customer
Initiate the Checkout Process:
Login: The cashier logs into the POS system using their credentials.
Select Items: Items can be added to the cart by scanning their barcodes using a connected scanner or the tablet's camera, or by manually selecting items from the POS software's inventory list.
Review the Cart:
Verify Items: Ensure all items intended for purchase are correctly listed.
Adjust Quantities: Modify quantities if needed, either by scanning additional items or adjusting the quantities directly in the cart.
Apply Discounts/Promotions: Enter any discount codes or apply promotions if applicable.
Subtotal and Tax Calculation:
View Subtotal: The POS software calculates the subtotal of all items in the cart.
Calculate Taxes: The system automatically applies relevant sales tax based on the item types and location.
Customer Details (Optional):
Add Customer Information: Optionally, add customer details to the transaction for loyalty programs, customer tracking, or personalized receipts.
Select Payment Method:
Display Total Amount: Show the customer the total amount due, including taxes and any applied discounts.
Choose Payment Method: The customer selects their preferred payment method from options such as:
Credit/Debit Card: Insert, swipe, or tap the card on the connected card reader.
Cash: If paying with cash, the cashier enters the amount received and the system calculates the change.
Other Methods: Gift cards, Paypal, or other supported payment options.
Process Payment:
Card Transactions: The card reader processes the payment, which may require the customer to enter their PIN or sign on the tablet screen.
Cash Transactions: The cashier handles the cash, provides change if necessary, and confirms the payment in the system.
Payment Confirmation: The POS system confirms the payment, often with an audible signal or on-screen notification.
FAQ
How do I reset my password?
Go to the login screen.
Click on “Forgot password”.
Follow the instructions to reset your password.
What should I do if I have a connection problem?
Check your Internet connection.
Make sure your login details are correct.
If the problem persists, contact support.
The onscreen keyboard keeps disappearing.
The iPad's onscreen keyboard will be hidden from view as a native function of iPadOS when a barcode reader is connected and used. The simplest way is to connect an external keyboard, allowing you to scan and type without menu diving to reopen onscreen keyboard.
Support
For further assistance, please contact our technical support: [email protected]