In recent years, tablet EPOS solutions have revolutionised all aspects of how resorts, restaurants, and other businesses operate in the hospitality industry.
A tablet EPOS system is a software solution that typically consists of a tablet device with a dedicated app that can be used for managing orders, processing payments, and tracking inventory, and has gained popularity due to its ease of use and mobility, providing an efficient and convenient way to manage transactions, inventory, and customer data.
In the hospitality industry, a tablet-based EPOS system can help to streamline operations and improve the guest experience with its high portability, allowing servers to take orders and process payments tableside, which can speed up service and improve customer satisfaction.
In this blog post, we will discuss how to use an EPOS system with an interface centred around a tablet device to improve service in your hospitality business.
Why consider an EPOS system with a tablet interface for your hospitality business?
There are several benefits to using a tablet EPOS system in your hospitality business that have led to their massive popularity and rapid adoption across many industries, including hospitality. These benefits include:
Improved order accuracy: One of the primary benefits of using a tablet-based EPOS system is that it can improve order accuracy. Since servers can take orders directly at the table using the tablet device, they can ensure that the order is entered correctly, reducing the risk of mistakes or miscommunications.
Increased efficiency: Using a tablet-based EPOS system can also increase efficiency in your hospitality business. Since orders can be processed and paid for tableside, servers can spend less time walking back and forth to a stationary POS system, allowing them to serve more tables in less time.
Enhanced real-time inventory tracking: Many tablet-based EPOS systems also include real-time inventory tracking, allowing you to keep track of stock levels in real-time without having to scan barcodes. This can help you identify when you need to order more supplies or when certain menu items are selling faster than others.
Bettered customer experience: By leveraging a tablet EPOS system, you can provide a better customer experience. Customers can choose without the hassle of going through traditional menus and can also pay at the table, which saves them time and increases satisfaction with the service. In addition, servers can spend more time interacting with customers, improving the overall dining experience.
What are the main steps for setting up a tablet-based EPOS system?
Setting up a tablet EPOS system is often more convenient than setting up a conventional point-of-sale terminal, while also generally being a more cost-effective alternative to setting up a stationary EPOS system.
Step 1: Choose a tablet device
The tablet device will be used as the interface to feed data into your EPOS system as well as to hold the EPOS software to process transactions. It is important to make sure that the tablet device you choose is compatible with the EPOS app that you plan on using.
Step 2: Select a suitable EPOS app
There are several EPOS apps available for tablet devices; some popular examples include TouchBistro, Toast, and Square. Choose an app that fits the needs of your hospitality business and has the features that you require to cover the full extent of your operation.
Step 3: Configure your EPOS system
Once you have chosen the right app that fits your business, you will need to configure the EPOS system. This involves setting up your menu items, prices, and any discounts or promotions you plan to offer. You will also need to configure any payment processing systems that you plan to use.
Step 4: Train your staff on the system
After setting up and configuring your EPOS system to meet the requirements of your business, you will need to train your staff on how to use it effectively. Make sure that they are familiar with the functionality of the app and understand how to take orders, process payments, and track inventory.
How can you maximise the effectiveness of the tablet-based EPOS system used?
Integrating and adhering to the following tips can help you get the most out of your tablet-based EPOS system:
Customise your menu: Make sure that your menu is easy to navigate and understand. Group similar items together and use clear and concise descriptions. This will help to reduce errors and improve the speed of service.
Monitor your inventory consistently: Keep an eye on your inventory levels in real time to ensure that you always have enough supplies on hand. This will help to prevent stockouts and ensure that you can fulfil customer orders on time.
Encourage your customers to leave feedback: Use your tablet-based EPOS system to gather customer feedback on the dining experience. Encourage customers to leave comments or reviews on the tablet device, and use this feedback to improve the service in your business.
Stay up-to-date: Keep your tablet-based EPOS system up-to-date with the latest software updates and security patches. This will help ensure that your system is secure and functioning properly and is always at peak performance.
Integrate the ideal tablet EPOS system to elevate your hospitality business
Working with a reputable and specialised provider that understands the specific requirements of your business can be the key factor in determining how well tablet-based restaurant EPOS systems can benefit your business.