The Invoice Stamp Addon is developed to enable store owners to add their custom stamps or overlays to the invoices generated in CS-Cart. It will be integrated into the CS-Cart backend so that users may use images or text-based stamps over invoice PDFs by adding elements such as logos, "paid" stamps, "certified" marks, or any other relevant watermark. This might make the presentation of the document more effective and could be used for functional purposes such as the payment status, branding, or specific notification for customers.

Key Features of the Invoice Stamp Module

1. Customisable Stamp Design
   • Supports uploading of custom images (e.g., company logos, "Paid" stamps).
   • Allows customization of stamp size, colour, opacity, and positioning (top, center, bottom).
   • Option to include date-based stamps, e.g., “Issued on [Date]” or “Paid on [Date].”
2. Dynamic Stamp Text
   • Option to generate dynamic text-based stamps on invoices, e.g., customer-specific messages, order-specific details, or payment status.
   • Text can be formatted with other fonts, sizes,
     and colours.
3. Watermark Integration
   • Watermark includes the possibility of overlaying semi-transparent watermarks on the overall background of the invoice by adding security or branding. 
   • It can include custom texts or images as watermarks, and this is well suited to add "Draft" or "Confidential" indications on invoices. 
4. Automated Stamping Based on Order Status
   • It can be adjusted to stamp the invoices differently by order status, such as "Pending," "Shipped," "Delivered," or "Paid".
   • Ensures proper stamps appear at the appropriate
     transaction stages, thus keeping all invoice details correct.
5. Multi-Language and Multi-Currency Support
   • Guarantees stamps  appear in the language configured in CS-Cart's localisation settings. 
   • Flexible enough to allow stamps to appear for invoices of different currencies to accommodate the global market.
6. Placement Options and Custom Coordinates
   • Provide the flexibility of stamp positioning - either left, right, centre, or custom coordinates. 
   • Allows multiple parts of the invoice, such as the header or footer or even over particular items, to be stamped.
7. Preview Before Applying
   • Provides a preview of the stamped invoice before finalizing, allowing for adjustments.
   • Reduces errors in placement or formatting by allowing a visual check before saving.
8. PDF Export Compatibility
   • Ensures that all stamps and watermarks are embedded when the invoice is exported as a PDF.
   • Provides a professional-looking final document that’s easy to share and print.
9. Admin Configuration and Easy Setup
   • Simple module setup with intuitive options in the admin dashboard.
   • Allows admin users to configure stamps without needing technical expertise.

Benefits of the Invoice Stamp Addon

1. Professional Branding
   • Enhances the appearance of invoices with brand-specific stamps or watermarks, ensuring customers recognise the document’s authenticity.
   • Consistent branding across invoices builds trust with customers and reinforces the business’s identity.
2. Enhanced Document Security
   • Watermarks and stamps can deter tampering or unauthorized duplication of invoices.
   • Ideal for sensitive transactions, as customers and other recipients can easily identify genuine documents.
3. Clarity on Payment and Delivery Status
   • Helps prevent misunderstandings by marking invoices with statuses like "Paid" or "Pending".
   • Reduces the number of inquiries from customers seeking payment or order status updates.
4. Improved Record Keeping and Organisation
   • Businesses can use stamped invoices to improve internal organisation, allowing for quicker sorting or retrieval based on visual cues like “Draft” or “Certified”.
5. Customisation Without External Tools
   • Provides a built-in option for invoice stamping within CS-Cart, removing the need for external PDF editors or additional software.
   • Saves time and resources by allowing direct customisation in the admin panel.
6. Supports Legal and Regulatory Compliance
   • Certain regions or industries may require stamped invoices for compliance; this module can fulfil such needs, helping businesses avoid penalties.
7. Multi-Store and Multi-Vendor Friendly
   • Perfect for multi-vendor or multi-store setups, where vendors can add their own brand-specific stamps, improving flexibility and vendor satisfaction.

Use Cases for the Invoice Stamp Addon

1. E-commerce Stores: Add branding to invoices for customer recognition and brand consistency.
2. Service-Based Businesses: Use “Certified” or “Paid” stamps to validate completed transactions.
3. International Businesses: Apply specific regional requirements or stamps for compliance.
4. Subscription or Recurring Services: Mark invoices as “Paid” or “Due” for subscription cycles, reducing payment-related confusion.

Overall, the Invoice Stamp Addon for CS-Cart is a versatile tool for businesses looking to improve their invoice presentation, authenticity, and security. Its customisation options and ease of use make it ideal for businesses of all sizes.