AI chat and agent workflows

CafeTally includes AI-assisted workflows for store operations. The chat workspace can use store context and product tools to help operators inspect, create, and update operational data.

What AI can help with

AI can search products, inspect recipes, calculate product COGS, create inventory items, create products, create recipes, manage modifiers, list expenses, upload receipts, and match receipt items. The best prompts name the store, product, ingredient, vendor, or receipt being discussed. Use AI for repetitive setup and analysis, then review important changes before relying on them.

Product and recipe work

Ask for a product audit when a margin looks wrong. Ask for a recipe suggestion when a new product needs an initial costing draft. Ask the chat to find matching ingredients before creating duplicates. Review generated recipes for quantity, unit, and modifier accuracy.

Receipt work

Use receipt tools when a supplier invoice needs extraction or matching. AI can help map receipt lines to inventory items, but pack sizes and units still need operator review. Save matched receipt items only after the names, quantities, and unit costs make sense.

Practical prompts

Audit the COGS for our 12 oz latte and tell me which ingredient is driving the margin.

Create a draft recipe for a large oat latte using the existing espresso, oat milk, and cup ingredients.

Review the latest receipt and match any obvious supplier lines to existing inventory items.

Guardrails

AI output should not override owner judgment on pricing, vendor disputes, payroll, tax, or bank reconciliation. Use the dashboard review screens for final confirmation when changes affect costs, recipes, receipts, or finance reports.