> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.dishink.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
# WhatsApp Ordering — Overview
> Turn WhatsApp into a full ordering channel with live menu, cart, and order status updates.
DishInk turns WhatsApp into a full ordering channel — customers browse your menu, build a cart, and place orders straight into your dashboard, all inside a familiar WhatsApp chat.
## Overview
* Guests message your restaurant's WhatsApp number.
* DishInk sends a menu link tied to your live products, prices, and availability.
* Guests build a cart, choose delivery or pickup, and confirm.
* The order lands in the [unified order queue](/whatsapp/order-management) with a KDS ticket.
* Order status updates (accepted, preparing, ready) are pushed back to WhatsApp automatically.
## Why WhatsApp
Across African markets, WhatsApp is the dominant messaging platform. Customers order in a channel they already trust — no app to install, no login, no learning curve.
## What you need
| Requirement | Detail |
| ------------------------------- | ---------------------------------- |
| WhatsApp Business number | Or WhatsApp Business API for scale |
| DishInk menu | Configured with photos and prices |
| Delivery zones or pickup config | Under Settings → Ordering |
| Payment options | Cash, mobile money, card link |
WhatsApp ordering shares the same menu, inventory, and reports as the POS. There is no separate menu to maintain.
## Tips & best practices
Publish the WhatsApp link on every table QR code and every social post. Discovery is 80% of WhatsApp order volume.
## Common mistakes
Do not use a personal WhatsApp for orders. Personal accounts cannot access the Business API and shifts cannot share the number.
## Related pages
* [Setup](/whatsapp/setup)
* [Order Management](/whatsapp/order-management)
* [Order Lifecycle](/whatsapp/order-lifecycle)