CST celebrates 18 years in the hospitality industry with its top ten business-enhancing technologies – and there’s another eight to be found at call-systems.com
Call Systems Technology (CST) has come of age – this month the company celebrates its 18th birthday. Recognised as a leading supplier of communications and software systems to the hospitality industry, over the years CST has pioneered many new concepts – here it offers ten top ways technology can improve an operator’s business.
1) A good online presence does wonders for attracting guests. Introducing a simple online booking process can increase business by up to 50%.
2) Customers often want to book their table at the last minute. Increase business by providing an online queuing system, which will allow customers to queue without having to physically wait at the restaurant.
3) A relaxed host makes a great first impression – a stressed one encourages customers to walk away. A table management system reduces stress by giving the host all the information they need, at the hostess stand.
4) Long queues can put customers off. A customer pager lets customers wait for their table in the bar, and staff can get in touch immediately the table is ready.
5) Wooden spoons to locate customers’ tables are so last millennium – and they’re not always effective. RFID technology tells waiters exactly where customers are, saving huge amounts of time.
6) Don’t ruin the ambiance by calling out names over the tannoy. Alternative communication devices are discreet and won’t disturb the dining experience.
7) Customers wanting another drink or dessert may lose interest if no one is around to take their order. Call buttons on the table increase business and let customers get service when they want it.
8) Provide a personal service and make customers feel wanted – technology can log and remember birthdays, favourite meals, and dietary requirements.
9) Kitchen automation can help chefs who don’t have English as a first language by translating recipes and kitchen processes, with pictures and video to assist.
10) Communication between management and staff needs to be quick, reliable and discreet. The latest lightweight radios let staff call for support without any annoying crackles.
If that’s whet your appetite for more, visit the CST website for another eight top tech tips.
For details, Freephone Call Systems Technology on 0800 389 5642 or call 020 8381 1338, email the company at solutions@call-systems.com or visit www.call-systems.com