Barcode Scanning Guide

The Cockato Staff Dashboard supports scanning customer barcodes and QR codes to look up loyalty accounts instantly. This guide covers the hardware and software requirements, scanning workflow, and troubleshooting tips.

Supported Scan Formats

Cockato generates two identifier formats for each customer:

Both formats encode the same unique barcode_id (e.g., CKT-A3F7B2C1).

Scanning Methods

1. Camera-Based Scanning (Built-in)

The Staff Dashboard includes a browser-based QR/barcode scanner using the device camera:

1. Open the Staff Dashboard
2. Tap Scan Customer
3. Allow camera access when prompted
4. Point the camera at the customer's wallet pass or printed card
5. The customer's loyalty profile loads automatically on a successful scan

💡 Tip: For best results, ensure the barcode is well-lit and held steady. Scanning distance of 15–30 cm works best.

2. USB/Bluetooth Hardware Scanner

Professional handheld barcode scanners work as keyboard input devices:

1. Connect the scanner (USB or Bluetooth pairing)
2. On the Staff Dashboard, click into the Customer ID / Barcode search field
3. Scan the barcode — the scanner emits the ID as keyboard input and auto-submits
4. The customer profile loads immediately

Recommended scanner types: 1D/2D scanners supporting Code 128 and QR Code (e.g., Zebra DS2208, Honeywell Voyager).

Scanning Workflow

Once a customer is identified via scan:

1. View profile — points balance, punch card status, welcome offer
2. Add points — enter the transaction amount or points directly
3. Add punches — tap the punch card to add stamps
4. Redeem reward — tap Redeem if the customer has an available reward or welcome offer
5. Process — confirm the transaction; the wallet card updates automatically via push

Camera Permissions

Camera-based scanning requires the browser to have camera access:

If the browser blocks camera access, a manual entry fallback is available — staff can type the barcode ID into the search field.

Troubleshooting

Scan not recognized:

• Ensure the barcode is not damaged or obscured
• Try increasing screen brightness on a digital pass
• Switch to manual ID entry if scanning continues to fail

Camera won't open:

• Check browser camera permissions
• Ensure no other app is actively using the camera
• On iOS, only Safari supports camera APIs — use Safari for scanning

Customer not found after scan:

• The barcode may belong to a different organization
• Verify the customer registered with your organization's signup link