.png)
With a growing base of digital-first customers and their changing dining preferences, restaurateurs are quickly beginning to realize that online ordering software is the future. Add to that a host of benefits like order accuracy, revenue growth, sole profit sharing as opposed to food aggregators taking a large chunk of revenue, it is not a question of if but when.
Perhaps with any new business investment, one must make an all-round evaluation, before plunging in. When it comes to choosing a technology partner for online ordering, there are plenty of options to consider, and with that comes the responsibility of making the right choice.
So how do you do that?
How to ensure that you have chosen the right solution for your business?
Here’s a list of questions that you should ask yourself and to your service provider when considering online ordering software.
Which features do I really need in an online ordering platform for restaurants?
Online ordering software today is multifaceted, offering a wide range of functions instead of just performing the primary task of taking online food orders. Menu management, customer database, real-time analysis are just some of the tasks these software come equipped with. But not all businesses require all the features.
For instance, the needs of a food truck are very different from a full-fledged restaurant If you fail to determine your requirement, you will end up paying for features that you may never really utilize.
What is the investment?
There is no one answer to this question. Really, it all depends upon the kind of services you require and the provider you choose to opt for. For instance, if you already have a website, then integration online ordering would cost you less than those who are building an online business from scratch. POS integrations and Loyalty programs integrations are just a few add-ons that may or may not be included in the basic package offered by the provider.
Restolabs' basic package starts from $45 per month. If you’re not sure whether you’d like to make long term commitment with the brand. It’s always advised to try out our services Free for one month. This will help you make an informed and confident decision. Also note that there are no hidden costs, like paying for app updates once the purchase has been made.
How good is the customer service?
Before making any investments on an online ordering software, you should ask your provider whether they offer round the clock customer care. When it comes to technology, it is very important to have direct access to the customer care portal so all glitches can be resolved as soon as possible. This will help you maintain consistent customer experience and efficient services.
You can also check online reviews and forum discussions where people who’ve already used the platforms share their first-hand experience. Even things like multilingual customer support, which might seem of minor importance initially, will turn out to be crucial in the long run.
What marketing tools am I being offered?
As mentioned above, restaurant online ordering software providers aren’t one-dimensional. They allow restaurant owners a plethora of features to help them interact with their audience in the most efficient manner.
One of these features is an array of in-built marketing modules that allow restaurants to reach out to more customers and expand their brand. Some of these tools include loyalty programs, discount coupons, refer and earn and email marketing. Having a well-defined marketing plan will help you choose the right package for your restaurant's marketing.
Does it simplify the ordering process?
Isn't that the whole purpose of the Food Online Ordering System?
A recent study conducted on American diners shows that 63% of them will abandon digital takeout orders if they have poor customer experience, and 55% want an easier online ordering system.
It has become imperative for restaurant owners to provide a seamless experience to their customers. A slow website, confusing UI/UX and intimidating payment process are just a few reasons for a drop in sales.
The journey to excellent customer experience and successful sales begins right from the time the customer opens your webpage/app, scans through the menu, selects the order, makes the payment and gets the food delivered. Even a small glitch in either of the steps can lead to abandoned carts.
When searching for the right online ordering software, take the time to do your research on which one provides the most effortless ordering process. Even things like being able to make changes to existing orders can ensure smooth sailing.
Will it increase my online order?
Of course, it will. Online ordering can be a new revenue stream for your orders - provided that you do it in the right way. The clout of the online food delivery is only set to grow bigger in the years to come with studies predicting it to become a $200 billion industry by 2025. It’s a no brainer that getting an online ordering app is a must for any restaurant. But will this technology partnership really increase online order is a question you must ask your service provider.
It takes the cumulative effort of several functions like attractive branding, ease of ordering and payment, etc. to make sure customers keep returning to your online ordering website. Any repetitive error means that today’s fickle customer won’t think twice about moving on and leaving a bad online review, which will further drive away new diners.
How easy is the set-up process?
What if we say, with Restolabs it won’t take you more than 15 minutes to launch your online ordering website and stark taking orders online. That’s how simple and easy it is!
The thumb rule says, the easier and quicker the set-up process, the better it is for your business and your customers. You don’t want to waste your precious time trying to figure out the software and resolving glitches. Do you?
What about the payment methods?
Making it as easy for your customers to make their payments is a critical factor in ensuring sales and conversion. There is no way around this. It has been observed that online shoppers expect a variety of payment options on the checkout page. Some of the things to note when deciding whether an online ordering software offers an effective payment option for your customers are:
- Providing more than one payment methods
- Customers should be able to use all payment methods without requiring an account
- Provide design consistency across all steps, especially your checkout page
- Does Not redirects people away from your website to a checkout page
- Keep distractions to a minimum
- Have a clear and direct call to action
Will I be able to customize my restaurant profile on the app?
Being able to customize your profile page is essential in asserting your brand identity. The branding needs to be consistent in all the platforms, whether it’s a mobile ordering app, website or social media. Most online ordering platforms utilize pre-developed templates, which may or may not suit your brand identity. Thus, it is always better to go with the service provider that enables website/app personalisation.
Can I integrate my existing POS with an online restaurant ordering system?
Yes, you can, as long as you have a compatible POS system. Restolabs can be easily integrated with all major and most popular POS systems in the market - bringing online orders directly to your POS. The bottom line is that the online ordering system you choose should be as adaptable as possible, integrating seamlessly, and adapting to new technology trends routinely.
Always remember that your restaurant has its own set of needs and it is critical to choose an online ordering system that is designed with your needs in mind. Asking the right questions is key to your restaurant running smoothly and efficiently.
