The COVID-19 era has brought about a significant shift in the way we interact with the world around us, and the restaurant industry is no exception. In the face of social distancing measures and heightened hygiene protocols, contactless ordering has emerged as a lifeline for both restaurant staff and customers. By minimising physical contact and reducing the risk of infection, this innovative solution has undoubtedly played a crucial role in keeping us safer during these challenging times.
The need for contactless ordering has never been more evident. In a world where hygiene and safety have taken centre stage, customers are actively seeking out restaurants that prioritise their well-being. They want to dine out or order takeout without compromising their health. With a contactless ordering system, you not only meet these demands but also demonstrate your commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for your valued patrons. But how do you introduce one in your operations?
In this article, we will explore how you can implement a contactless ordering system to help your restaurant thrive in the ever-evolving food and beverage market.
Contactless ordering is not merely a temporary fix to address the immediate concerns of the pandemic. Its benefits extend far beyond the scope of COVID-19. In fact, implementing a contactless ordering system can have lasting advantages that go beyond safety measures. Embracing a contactless ordering system also helps you adapt to the changing needs of your customers, remain competitive in a tough market and position your restaurant for long-term success.
Contactless ordering refers to a technology-driven system that allows customers to browse menus, customise their orders and make payments without the need for physical contact. It utilises methods, such as QR codes, mobile apps and self-ordering kiosks to provide a seamless and safe dining experience.
Before diving into the implementation process, it’s crucial to grasp the numerous benefits that a contactless ordering system can bring to your restaurant:
Enhanced customer experience: Customers can browse menus, customise orders and securely pay from their own devices, eliminating physical menus and reducing wait times.
Minimised errors: By removing the need for manual order taking, contactless ordering reduces the potential for errors in communication between staff and customers.
Improved efficiency: Contactless ordering streamlines the ordering process, which allows staff to focus on delivering excellent customer service instead of juggling multiple tasks simultaneously.
Enhanced safety and hygiene: Contactless ordering reduces physical contact, promoting safety and hygiene for both customers and staff.
Cost savings: When you get rid of the need for printing physical menus, contactless ordering can lead to cost savings in the long run.
Customer convenience: The ability to order and pay from their own devices offers customers a convenient and seamless dining experience.
When selecting a contactless ordering system for your restaurant, consider factors, such as ease of use, integration capabilities and affordability. Look for a system that offers a user-friendly interface to ensure that both your staff and customers can navigate it effortlessly. Furthermore, seek out a solution that provides a balance between functionality and cost-effectiveness.
Once you have chosen the right contactless ordering system, it’s time to customise your menu and set up online ordering. Start by digitising your menu items, including descriptions, prices and any available customisation options. Ensure that the menu is visually appealing and easy to navigate, with clear categories and intuitive filters. Next, integrate the online ordering functionality into your website or mobile app, making it accessible to your customers. Consider optimising your menu for mobile devices, as more and more people are using their smartphones to browse and order food.
Implementing a contactless ordering system is only the first step; you also need to promote it effectively to ensure its success. Utilise various marketing channels to spread the word about your new system. You can also leverage social media platforms to showcase the convenience and safety of contactless ordering, which can encourage your followers to give it a try.
In addition, consider offering exclusive discounts or incentives for customers who place their orders through the contactless system. You can also display prominent signage within your restaurant premises to highlight the availability of contactless ordering as a safe and convenient option.
To ensure the smooth implementation of your contactless ordering system, it’s essential to train your staff thoroughly. Educate them on the features and functionalities of the system, emphasising the importance of providing excellent customer service even in this new digital landscape.
In addition, teach them how to troubleshoot common issues that customers may encounter while using the system and encourage them to offer assistance when needed. By equipping your staff with the necessary knowledge and skills, you can maintain a high level of efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Once your contactless ordering system is up and running, make sure to collect and analyse customer feedback. Encourage your customers to share their experiences with the new system through online reviews, surveys or feedback forms. Pay close attention to their suggestions and concerns, and be responsive to their needs. This feedback can provide valuable insights into areas for improvement and help you refine and enhance your contactless ordering system.
Introducing a contactless ordering system in your restaurant is no longer just a choice; it has become a necessity in today’s ever-changing landscape. The COVID-19 era has heightened the importance of safety and convenience, and contactless ordering provides the perfect solution to address these concerns.
With YQueue Australia, you have a one-stop complete solution that caters to all your contactless ordering needs. We offer comprehensive contactless ordering solutions, including our self-order app and online ordering, self-ordering kiosk and QR dining, which can revolutionise the way your restaurant operates while staying ahead of the competition.
By choosing YQueue, you not only prioritise the safety and convenience of your customers but also unlock a myriad of benefits for your restaurant. You can save on costs associated with traditional order-taking methods, build customer loyalty through a seamless and personalised ordering experience, and improve overall operational efficiency.
So why wait? Join the contactless ordering revolution today and experience the transformative power of YQueue. Contact us today.