Restaurants are one of the oldest and most important establishments in our culture.
Albeit some of the secret recipes have been handed down from generation to generation, technology such as Point of Sale (POS) solutions have enhanced and simplified the dining experience including reservation and table management, menu and ingredient lists, order and staff management.
Incorporating stock control POS will even tell you when you are running low on items so menus can be changed in real time and restocking orders can be automatically processed.
The five items you should be looking for in your Point of Sale (POS) solution are:
1) Adaptable
Like your staff, allowing you to effortlessly cater to your patron’s discerning palate. Menus and specials should be as easy to change in the POS as they are in the kitchen. Change is a given in any busy restaurant and the system needs to be flexible enough to deal with most situations.
2) Easy to use
Your POS should integrate seamlessly and allow you to do what you do best. Not make you change the way you do things just so processes can be computerized. Everyday tasks should be automated and when possible it should anticipate your next step.
Related: Why You Need-a-POS System
3) Bidirectional Interface
Bidirectional interface and messaging system so no one is in the dark. Communication is the key to success for any business. You do not always have the time to tell each individual about a change or request on an order. Enter your message in one place and everyone involved with the order will instantly have this important information.
4) Real Time Data
Real time data on everything from speed of service to food ingredients, and from current sales to remaining stock. No one likes to wait for their food. Let the system inform you when orders are running behind. Similarly, no one enjoys choosing their savory favorite only to have the server return to inform them it is no longer available. Food allergies and special diets are important to patrons. Complete ingredient lists and potential alternatives are only a small step away.
5) Exceptional product service and support
Exceptional product service and support are very important so you can spend that extra time on the little things that matter so much. When things don’t work the way you think they should, you should be able to speak to someone at any time, because small problems can very quickly lead to big disasters.
POS solutions have been around for a relatively short time period, but have made a large impact in the restaurant industry and are here to stay. They will only become more ingrained in the dining experience. Ensure that you choose the right solution for your business and that you customize your system to suit your taste and growing needs.
Is your POS providing you with a good return on investment? Leave a comment below.
Don’t delay, contact us now to request more info on Ideal Point-of-Sale.
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