Overview
SugarMad is a dessert shop ordering platform that transforms the traditional bakery experience. The system combines mobile ordering, QR-based loyalty programs, dine-in rewards, and POS integration into one seamless platform.
Built to help dessert shops compete with chain restaurants while keeping the personal touch that makes local bakeries special.
My Role
As lead software engineer and project manager, I designed and built the entire platform solo:
- System Architecture — Designed end-to-end ordering and loyalty system
- Mobile Development — Built React Native customer and staff apps
- POS Integration — Created bridge between app and existing point-of-sale systems
- Payment Processing — Implemented Stripe for seamless transactions
- Loyalty Engine — Built QR-based rewards and gamification system
Built entirely by me.
Architecture
Retail-grade architecture built for reliability and real-time operation:
Mobile Apps
React Native for customer and staff apps. Offline capability for payment fallback. Camera integration for QR scanning.
Backend
Node.js with Express. MySQL for transactional data. Redis for session and loyalty point caching.
POS Integration Layer
Adapter pattern for multiple POS systems. Real-time inventory sync. Order routing to kitchen displays.
Loyalty System
QR codes for transaction linking. Points calculation engine with bonus events. Tier-based rewards with automatic upgrades.
Hard Problems
1. POS Integration Complexity
Every dessert shop uses different POS systems. Built flexible adapter layer that works with major systems and custom setups.
2. Offline Payment Handling
Internet goes down during rush hours. Implemented offline transaction queue with automatic reconciliation.
3. QR Scanning Reliability
Crumpled receipts and poor lighting challenge scanners. Optimized camera processing for real-world conditions.
4. Real-time Kitchen Sync
Orders need instant visibility in kitchen. Built reliable push system with acknowledgment and fallback display.
What I'd Improve Today
- Add AI-powered demand forecasting for inventory management
- Implement personalized menu recommendations
- Create customer segmentation for targeted promotions
- Add digital gift cards with social sharing
- Build multi-location support with centralized reporting
- Integrate with delivery platforms for expanded reach