Which of the following is the first stage in the sales system?

The first stage in the sales system is the order received. This is a critical starting point as it sets the entire sales process in motion. Once a customer places an order, it triggers subsequent actions, such as processing the order, picking and dispatching the goods, invoicing the customer, and ultimately receiving payment. The order received stage involves capturing customer details, product information, and quantity requirements, which are essential for fulfilling the order correctly.

The other options represent subsequent steps in the sales process. For instance, goods dispatched occurs after the order has been placed and processed, invoicing comes after dispatching the goods, and cash received happens at the final stage of the sales cycle after the customer has paid for the products or services. This sequence highlights how pivotal the order received is as the initiating action in the overall sales system.