The Buffer Tool adjusts prep quantities to account for expected changes in menu item sales, such as large catering orders or special events. Use this tool to fine-tune prep needs when anticipated sales differ from typical forecasts.
A positive or negative buffer recalculates the expected menu item quantities, which automatically updates estimated usage and prep quantities for the day. Buffers can be entered as a specific quantity or a percentage, depending on the expected change in demand.
Note About Buffer Tool Display
The Buffer tool column label and description text depend on the settings enabled for an organization. If the menu item depletion rules are enabled, the column displays Recipe Name and the tool references recipes. If the depletion rules are not enabled, the column displays Menu Item and the tool references menu items.
Menu Item depletion rules are in beta.
Security
The following permissions are required to access the buffer tool:
Food → Advanced Prep → Prep Sheets
View Prep Sheets
Edit Prep Sheets
Navigation
The Buffer Tool is available on the Prep Quantity Review step of the Prep Sheet wizard. From the Prep page:
Start a new prep sheet or open an existing prep sheet.
After completing the On hand count step, click Continue.
Click the Buffer Tool button.
Buffer Tool
To use the buffer tool:
Buffer values can only be applied to the current day's prep sheet. Past prep sheets are read-only.
Click steps to expand for additional information and images.
1) Open the buffer tool.
2) Locate the menu item or recipe that needs a buffer added.
3) Select the buffer type.
Options include using quantity or percent.
4) Enter the buffer value.
As the buffer value is entered, the Adjusted Qty updates. The Adjusted Qty is today’s estimated usage plus/minus the buffer.
5) Click Apply Changes to apply the buffer.
The prep quantities for all impacted prep recipes adjust based on the buffer.
Automatic Buffer Tool Recalculation
A Buffer Tool prompt can also appear automatically, without a user opening the tool manually. When a Menu Item Modifier setting changes after a prep sheet was created, R365 recalculates the affected prep recipes and flags the prep sheet for review.
Open the Buffer Tool from the flagged prep sheet to review and confirm the buffer quantities before printing.