Overview

Custom jobs refer to pieces of jewellery created according to a customer’s vision, often in collaboration with a jeweller’s expertise. These pieces can be made from:

• Parts provided by the customer.
• Components supplied by the jeweller.
• Items already in your existing stock.

Regardless of how the materials are sourced, there are several ways to record the custom item in stock or link it to a customer order in The Edge POS system. This section outlines the recommended process for taking in a custom order and ensuring all details are accurately recorded.

Custom Order Intake in The Edge POS

When creating a custom job in The Edge POS, follow the standard sales process with a few additional steps to capture the necessary design and production details.

1. Select the Salesperson and Customer

• In the POS screen, choose the relevant salesperson and customer as you would for any standard transaction.

2. Choose the Transaction Type

• From the transaction types, select "Custom" to open the custom order entry screen.

3. Enter the Custom Piece Details

• The custom order screen contains two main description fields:

• Customer Description (Left Box) – This is a high-level summary of the piece, recorded as described by the customer. It should reflect the overall design vision in the customer’s own terms.
• Jeweller’s Description (Right Box) – This is a detailed specification written by the jeweller, outlining the exact requirements, materials, measurements, and production notes needed to create the piece.

Your screen should appear similar to the example provided below, with both description fields clearly completed to ensure accuracy and clarity for both the customer and workshop.

Creating Tasks for a Custom Job

When setting up tasks for a custom job in The Edge POS, you have flexibility in how detailed you make the job structure:

• Single Generic SKU – Use one general SKU (e.g., 1040) to represent the entire custom job and list all tasks and processes under that entry.
• Individual SKUs per Step – Create separate SKUs for each stage of production, allowing you to track progress, costs, and materials at a more granular level.

Setting Key Job Details

Before finalising the custom job entry, ensure you:

1. Mark the Price as an Estimate

• Tick the “Estimate” box unless you are certain about the final costs for materials and labour. This ensures flexibility if changes are needed later.

2. Add an ETA

• Specify the expected completion date so both the customer and production team are aligned on timelines.

3. Record the Deposit Amount

• Enter the deposit to be collected before work begins.

The task entry screen should display all relevant details clearly before you click OK / Save and Close.

Proceeding to Payment

Once you confirm the entry, you will return to the POS screen where you can process the deposit payment following the standard transaction process.

Best Practices for Creating Custom Job Tasks

Accurate and detailed task creation is essential for ensuring smooth production, clear communication, and customer satisfaction. Following these best practices will help avoid misunderstandings, delays, or unexpected costs.

Be Clear and Specific in Task Descriptions

• Clearly outline each step of the process, including the materials to be used, the type of work required, and any special instructions.
• Avoid vague terms—be as descriptive as possible to prevent confusion between sales, workshop, and the customer.

Use the Appropriate SKU Structure

• Single SKU – Best for straightforward jobs with minimal steps.
• Multiple SKUs – Recommended for complex jobs where tracking individual components, labour stages, or supplier involvement is necessary.

Always Mark Prices as “Estimates” Unless Confirmed

• Unless you have confirmed all material costs and labour charges, tick the “Estimate” box to protect against unexpected price changes.
• Communicate clearly to the customer that the final price may differ if specifications change.

Set a Realistic ETA

• Confirm material availability and workshop schedules before committing to a completion date.
• Avoid over-promising—allow buffer time for unforeseen delays.
• Check ETA is estimated to avoid disappointment from the customer and to cover if there is any unexpected delays

Record an Appropriate Deposit

• Collect a deposit to secure the customer’s commitment and cover initial costs.
• Ensure the deposit amount is agreed upon and documented before beginning work.

Review Before Saving

• Double-check all task details, including descriptions, prices, ETA, and deposit amount, before clicking OK / Save and Close.
• This final review can prevent errors and ensure a smooth transition to payment processing.