FnbNext Introduction
Welcome to FnbNext - the next-generation Point-of-Sale platform engineered specifically for the demanding Food & Beverage industry.
The Vision
FnbNext is a next-generation Point-of-Sale (POS) platform engineered for the demanding Food & Beverage industry. It directly addresses the critical need for a system that is simple to set up for a small independent cafe, yet powerful enough to scale for a high-volume restaurant or a multi-location chain.
By leveraging a flexible and unified architecture, FnbNext provides unparalleled reliability for in-store operations while offering the essential centralized management tools needed to run and grow a modern F&B business.
Key Differentiators
Flexible Deployment Model
FnbNext adapts to the user's needs. For a single independent shop, it can run as a simple all-in-one application on a single device. For heavy-workload shops, it can be deployed as a powerful client-server model with a dedicated local server for maximum performance.
Offline-First Reliability
At its core, FnbNext is designed to run locally. All critical operations—taking orders, and sending them to the kitchen—are handled by a local Edge Server, ensuring the business never stops, even during a complete internet outage.
Unified Modular Architecture
The entire system, from the local Edge to the Cloud, is built on a consistent Modular Monolith architecture. This simplifies development, ensures stability, and allows for easy extension and customization.
Essential Cloud Management
Regardless of size, every business is powered by the FnbNext Cloud. This central hub is required for the initial setup of master data like menus, staff accounts, and store settings, providing a single source of truth for the entire operation.
The Technology & Deployment Models
FnbNext is built on a modern, high-performance .NET technology stack, designed for flexibility and code reuse.
POS Client Application
The primary user interface is a cross-platform .NET MAUI application, capable of running on Windows, Android, or iOS devices.
Deployment Model 1: All-in-One (For Single, Independent Shops)
How it works: The .NET MAUI POS app embeds the Edge Server directly inside it. The client and server run in the same process on a single device (e.g., an iPad or Windows tablet).
Database: Uses an embedded SQLite database for simple, file-based storage.
Benefit: The simplest possible setup for a new business. No extra hardware is required.
Deployment Model 2: Client-Server (For High-Workload Shops)
How it works: The Edge Server is installed on a dedicated mini-PC or server within the restaurant. The .NET MAUI POS apps on all terminals act as interfaces, connecting to this central local server.
Database: Uses a robust PostgreSQL or SQL Server Express database to handle high concurrency and performance needs.
Benefit: Maximum performance and the ability to support multiple POS terminals, waiter tablets, and kiosks simultaneously.
Cloud Backend
Architecture: A scalable, multi-tenant Modular Monolith running in the cloud.
Function: It is the central authority for all master data. All businesses, regardless of size, connect to the cloud to set up their menu, staff, and store configurations. It also aggregates data for chain-wide analytics and reporting.
Getting Started
To understand how FnbNext works, start with these core concepts:
- Organization - The top-level business entity that owns your account
- Brand - Your restaurant concept and its complete menu system
- Environment - Production and testing instances for safe development
- Menu System - The comprehensive architecture for managing your menu
Architecture Overview
FnbNext follows a clear hierarchy that ensures data isolation, scalability, and operational flexibility:
Organization (Billing & Users)
└── Brand (Restaurant Concept)
└── Environment (Production/Staging)
└── Menu System (Products & Pricing)
└── Locations (Physical Stores)
This structure allows you to manage everything from a single independent cafe to a complex multi-brand restaurant group with centralized oversight and brand-specific customization.