The digital era is very fast-paced nowadays, where an Electric Point of Sale (EPoS) system isn’t just a tool; it’s the heartbeat of daily operations. It powers everything from taking orders to handling payments and even managing online orders.
But like any sophisticated tech, EPoS systems have challenges. Knowing these common issues and how to tackle them is essential for restaurant owners seeking smooth operations and top-notch service.
This article will explain common challenges and provide tailored insights and solutions for owners who aim to harness technology for operational excellence. Let’s see how you can unlock your restaurant’s full potential!
Challenges With Restaurant EPoS Systems & Their Solutions
The following are some of the challenges you may face with your restaurant EPoS. Some problems are easy to solve, while others might require an expert’s involvement.
Integration Issues
Issues: Integrating an EPoS system with other software solutions, such as inventory management, CRM, and online ordering platforms, presents a common challenge for many restaurant owners.
How to Solve: Consider opting for a cloud-based EPoS system for your restaurant. These systems provide increased flexibility and seamless integration with various applications. Before selecting an EPoS, verify that it supports integrations with the tools you currently utilise or intend to incorporate.
Complexity in Use
Issues: Some EPoS systems can be extremely complex to use. This might cause your employees to become inefficient and make mistakes.
How to Solve: Providing adequate training is the only way to solve this issue. Besides, you must choose an EPoS system known for its user-friendliness, such as ChefOnline EPoS. You can undoubtedly rely on their EPoS systems since they offer intuitive navigation and ease of use.
Hardware Problems
Issues: This is one of the most common problems with restaurant EPoS systems. Hardware failures and damages can delay the service, thus affecting payment transactions and overall order processing.
How to Solve: You need to choose EPoS hardware that’s long-lasting and specially designed for the restaurant environment. Regular maintenance and keeping a backup option are crucial to minimising downtime.
Security Concern
Issues: Data breaches and cyber-attacks are common for any tech-related product. The EPoS system’s handling of customer payment information is a significant concern.
How to Solve: Some best practices for restaurant EPoS system security include installing a firewall or antivirus. You should also opt for an EPoS that provides regular end-to-end encryption and security updates to protect you from cyber-attacks.
Cost Constraints
Issues: If you own a small restaurant, the cost of implementing and maintaining an EPoS system can be really high for you, especially if you opt for a package without any customisation.
How to Solve: Before you opt for an EPoS system, carefully assess the costs of the software, hardware, and subscription fees. Also, opt for a service that will provide you with tailor-made service to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Poor Customer Support
Issues: Any restaurant owner can face a huge problem when their EPoS is down during peak hours. Poor customer support can literally make it a nightmare.
How to Solve: Opt for an EPoS system famous for great customer service. Look into the reviews before you purchase it. The best restaurant, EPoS systems’ customer care is available 24/7 to ensure that help is just a click away.
Not Enough Customisation
Issues: Most EPoS systems offer a common package for managing menus, pricing, and reports. Since each restaurant is unique, a lack of customisation options can be a problem.
How to Solve: Always opt for an EPoS system that offers adequate customisation options. Starting from menu adjustment to producing detailed reports, your EPoS system should fit the specific needs of your restaurant to ensure efficiency.
Difficulty in Managing Online Orders
Issues: With the rise of online ordering, it’s vital that you manage your online and in-house orders using a single EPoS system. However, if your EPoS system is not up to date, you will likely face trouble managing online orders.
How to Solve: Before you opt for any EPoS system, make sure it integrates well with your online ordering platform or offers its own online ordering features. Such features can simplify operations, decrease errors, and improve overall customer experience.
Final Thoughts
While having an EPoS system for your restaurant is crucial, its performance can literally make or break your business. That’s why it’s crucial to know the challenges you may face so that you can take the necessary steps to deal with them.
Navigating the issues related to EPoS software may sound intimidating. But with the right tools and support, you can turn these challenges into opportunities for growth and success. The right restaurant EPoS will solve these issues and simplify your life and your customers’ lives. Providing such convenience in payment can impress your guests, thus making it easier for you to get nominated for the upcoming Asian Restaurant & Takeaway Awards (ARTA). This is one of the most prestigious restaurant awards in the UK. To find out more, visit artauk.com.