5 Innovative Digital Solutions For Restaurants

Is your company striving to become more innovative? How about upgrading your technology? Social media (such as Yelp and Instagram) have infused technology into the dining experience, and people love it. The right technological enhancements will help you give your customers the experience they’re looking for, and you’ll retain and gain new customers as a result.

It is a challenge to decide what technology to implement to achieve a competitive advantage. Using technology can improve customer satisfaction, reduce costs, improve food safety, and increase revenue. Isn’t that amazing? Here are the top technologies that restaurants should consider implementing to stay competitive, such as a LED Light box.

1. Digital Point-of-Sale System

What does it do? Cloud-based point-of-sale systems are the best way to empower your staff: waitstaff can place orders, the kitchen can receive orders instantly, and cashiers can process payments.

Using report features helps owners and managers improve operations by making data-backed decisions, such as which items are selling well or poorly, eliminating guesswork.

2. Scheduling Software

How does it work? Managers can log server and bartender schedules and vacation requests using automated scheduling software. Notifications are sent to the manager of schedule conflicts and gaps, and staff members send reminders when to report in.

Both the customers and the business can benefit from using scheduling software for restaurants. Streamlining the scheduling process means better attendance and freed up time for everyone. This digital solution can also help boost customer loyalty and experience. 

For instance, a Live Music, Bar & Restaurant in Manchester can better serve their customers by ensuring the venue can accommodate a sufficient number of people in one day and avoid over exceeding. For this, using scheduling software in managing scheduled events like rave parties, company events, or birthday gatherings would be necessary.

3. Mobile and online ordering

How does it work? Doesn’t it seem like a no-brainer? Despite its obvious benefits, many restaurants don’t implement and execute online ordering properly. It is a plus for customers to see the full menu and how much the order adds up. However, a strong online presence coupled with an outstanding user experience will set you apart from your competitors.

Benefits of online and mobile ordering: Online and mobile ordering eliminate incorrect orders and food waste that often occurs with phone orders. Customers can browse online menus more leisurely, meaning they are more likely to order additional items, increasing sales.

4. Mobile Payment

Fast food and QSR market success are largely dependent on mobile payment technologies. Users don’t have to wait anymore for the server to process their payments with some systems that include mobile card readers right at the table.

Mobile payments are faster than cash and less cumbersome than EMV chip cards. Faster checkout means fewer wait times, faster turnaround, and more sales.

5. Managing waitlists

Diners today don’t appreciate waiting in a restaurant, especially if there’s no space at the bar or in the lounge, and even less if they have to stand in line outside in inclement weather. Apps for waiting list management are easy to use: they notify diners via mobile devices when their tables are ready.

Waitlist management provides several advantages, including enforcing customer rights to roam freely, removing the inconvenience of coasters, and preventing unsightly crowding at the door and in the reception area.

A company that keeps up with the latest technologies can gain a competitive advantage in this digital age. In the restaurant industry, customer perception will be the most important differentiator.

Conclusion

Whatever technology you choose, don’t interrupt the customer’s experience with unnecessary interruptions. A helpful, convenient, and fun innovation is what they are looking for.