Make the most of your IT

Having worked in the IT hospitality market for many years, I would estimate that most operators are not using their IT systems to their full potential.  

The frustration for the supplier is that the sophisticated features and functionality of a system are not being used to their full potential. For a supplier, the sales process is a long and complex task, and one which we don’t take lightly. We evaluate and analyse a site’s requirements, and aim to provide solutions which will bring real benefits and return on investment. If a site isn’t using the software as initially envisaged, this could result in loss of profit and missed sales opportunities.

Consider this: via good reporting tools you analyse your restaurant operation and discover that “Julie” is the top performer in terms of the number of orders she processes per day. However, her average order value is £15 – consistently lower than the standard throughout the business of £18. “Mary” is at the bottom of the league for number of orders taken (30 per day instead of the average per day of 40) but always has a higher than average check value at £22.

With the implementation of training and coaching for both employees, would it be possible for Julie to process 50 orders per day at £18 and Mary to process 40 per day at £22? If so, these two staff alone would generate additional revenue of £370 per day. Without sophisticated reporting tools, and the capability to analyse such figures, potential revenue losses lead to significant amounts. With the correct use of technology, this figure could be significantly reduced.

Other factors such as the use of hand-held technology in restaurants leads to a greater opportunity for faster service, quicker table turns and upselling opportunities for items such as another round of drinks or desserts.

The same applies in hotels – often, so much more can be done with integrated analysis and marketing tools. True assessment of clients’ buying behaviour and individual spend patterns should be used to create and deliver targeted marketing initiatives which would assist in generating increased revenue opportunities.

Many analysts are predicting a downturn in the economy, but I suggest operators consider what level of return on investment they are truly gaining from their systems, and then take steps to ensure that the significant investment they have made in technology over the years starts to work for them.

For more information about how MICROS could help your business, call us today on 01753 501 607 or email mfuksales@micros.com