Understand Service Totals in MICROS Simphony
Description: Learn how a service total differs from closing a check, how to send an order while keeping the check open, and what to check when items do not reach the kitchen or bar.
Service Total vs. Closing a Check
In MICROS Simphony, a service total ends the current ordering round and normally sends eligible items to the kitchen or bar while keeping the guest check open. Closing a check completes payment and ends the transaction.
| Service total | Final payment/close |
|---|---|
| Sends the current round for preparation, according to your location's setup. | Applies the guest's payment method to complete the check. |
| The check remains open for later orders or payment. | The check closes after the payment is completed. |
| You can return to the check during service. | Further changes may require a separate authorized process. |
Send an Order Without Closing the Check
Follow these steps to send a round of items in MICROS Simphony while keeping the guest check open.
- Open the guest check and add the menu items for the current round.
- Review the items, modifiers, and quantities before sending.
- Select your location's service-total or send function, such as Send. The exact button name varies by configuration.
- Confirm the order has been sent as expected. The guest check remains open for additional orders or payment.
Note: If your workstation has Send and Stay, you can send items to order devices while remaining on the check to add more items.
Note: Held items and timed-fire items may not be sent immediately. Follow your location's procedures for releasing held orders.
Troubleshoot a Service Total
If a service total in MICROS Simphony does not behave as expected, try the following.
Items Did Not Reach the Kitchen or Bar
Check whether the items are held, whether an error appears, and whether other orders are reaching the destination. Avoid sending duplicate orders until you confirm the first attempt.
The Check Still Shows as Open
A check remaining open is expected after a service total. Use the payment function when the guest is ready to settle the check.
You Cannot change an Item You Already Sent
Sent items may require a different correction or void process. Ask a manager before making changes that could affect the kitchen or the guest's bill.
Important: Do not repeatedly send or pay a check when the outcome is unclear. Confirm its status first to avoid duplicate orders or payments.