Welcome to the OFN User Guide

This user guide is designed to help you get the most out of the Open Food Network platform to support the operation of local food enterprises and “short food chains” wherever you live.

An overview

The Open Food Network enables local people to build better, fairer ways to source their food locally and directly from growers, farmers and producers. Expansive networks of small food producers, distributors, retailers, food hubs, food co-ops and buying groups can come together with the aid of the Open Food Network to find the best way of shortening the food supply chain. And in the process it helps to build strong communities.

The Open Food Network is a global project that supports the operational organisation of farmers, groups of consumers, cooperatives, etc. in the distribution of local food. The software we build is open source, and we collaborate with amazing people from all over the world to keep improving it! We also provide support in the organisational aspects of setting up and running a food hub. Please get in touch with your local OFN contact to learn more about us!

This short video will give you a brief introduction to how the Open Food Network works, and what we can do for your food business, or organisation.

How to use this guide?

> Quick setup guides tailored to your enterprise

Starting scratch, open an online shop that perfectly fits your needs in a few simple steps!

We recommend these guides to users starting out on the Open Food Network platform for the first time.

> Features to meet your needs

Find a detailed explanation of every feature our platform offers, so you can set up your Open Food Network enterprise to specifically meet your local needs.

We recommend these guides to users who would like to customise their Open Food Network enterprise specifically to meet the needs of their business or customers.

They are also a great resource for answering any questions you may have.

> Guidelines on complementary software you might like to use in combination with the Open Food Network

The Open Food Network does a lot of things, but no one tool can fit all needs. We have listed some needs for which you might need complementary software, and how you can set them up to work hand in hand with your local Open Food Network platform.

> Trouble shooting

Still not finding what you need ? Check the Trouble Shooting section to see if others had the same questions as you!

Looking for information on something specific? Use the search bar in the top left corner to find the information you need.

Feedback

Any difficulty with that user guide? Any information missing? Or maybe you want to share some features you would like to see in the future? Get in touch with your local OFN entity for any feedback!

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