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Crucial Tech Tools for Restaurants

by Innov8tiv.com

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The restaurant industry was slow to adopt new technologies despite the rapid digitization of other sectors of the global economy. Most activities were done by hand.  For instance, waiters had to write down orders, and cash was the most popular form of settling payments. Now that most people are tech-savvy, the hospitality industry has had to join the digital era bandwagon. You risk losing potential clients if your outlet isn’t tech-enabled as a restaurant owner. Read on to discover the most crucial tech tools, such as this Pizza restaurant software, that will keep your restaurant competitive.

1. Point of Sale System

Point of Sale systems are critical for managing your business transactions. A POS system allows you to input orders, accept payments, manage your inventory, and monitor your sales. While several POS software systems are available, only a few are suitable for restaurants. Choose a solution that seamlessly integrates with the rest of your tech tools to allow for smooth operations.

2. Online ordering platforms

With more adopting the work-from-home trend due to the COVID-19 pandemic, restaurants are recording an increased demand for takeout meals. Although most lockdown restrictions have been eased, this trend is unlikely to end soon. It’s wise to invest in an online ordering system.

Online ordering has several potential benefits to your business. Firstly, customers are likely to purchase more items, as they don’t feel the uneasiness associated with queuing or waiting on a table for many minutes. Secondly, online orders are more accurate than telephone orders. It’s also easier to track consumer behavior using monitoring tools integrated onto e-commerce platforms.

3. Payment processor

The world is moving towards a cashless economy, which is why you need a payment processor. Invest in a card reader that accepts the latest technologies, including chips, contactless cards, magnetic stripes, and mobile payments. The payment processor should also accept online payments if your business allows customers to order food via the internet. Ideally, your processor should be compatible with your POS system.

4. Tabletop tablets

If you want to stand out as a restaurateur, consider allowing your customers to make orders themselves. It’s all about taking self-service to a new level. You can do this by installing tabletop tablets that show your offerings and allow customers to place orders.

Customers enjoy faster service than calling a waiter to request an order, especially during peak hours. This makes them happier and boosts your reputation. Even better, the tablets make it easier for clients to order add-ons, resulting in higher sales.

5. QR codes

QR codes allow customers to access menus online, place orders and make payments using smartphones. Placing these codes on tables eliminates the need for servers to walk to every customer and ask what they’d like to eat. It’s also a smart way of observing COVID-19 protocols. The best thing about QR codes is that customers don’t have to download special apps to scan them. All they need is a functional camera.

Endnote

The restaurant industry has undergone several changes recently, and there are no signs of the trend slowing down. Interestingly, these restaurant technologies aren’t replacing personnel; they’re enhancing the interactions between hotel staff and customers. Instead of dashing back and forth from the kitchen to the table, waiters spend more time with guests. On their part, business owners are finding it easier to track key metrics and monitor their margins.

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