These days, restaurants need to be able to offer delivery services if they want to stay competitive. Plenty of software creators have stepped up to meet the increased need for delivery solutions, but not all of them are created equal. Read on to find out what to look for in restaurant delivery software before choosing which product to trust with managing vital food delivery programs.
Ease of Use
Not every restauranteur is a tech genius, and that’s just fine. Everyone has a unique skill set, and the whole reason that restaurant owners purchase delivery software solutions is to allow them to focus on other aspects of running their businesses that require other forms of specialized knowledge. Restaurant delivery solutions like DataDreamers focus on providing easy-to-use platforms that free up business owners’ time without requiring them to devote hours to learning how to use new programs.
Hassle-Free Ordering
Like restaurant owners, customers vary substantially in terms of their technical abilities. Look for a software program that offers out-of-the-box websites complete with customizable templates that offer everything customers need to place an order online. The program should allow business owners to upload menus, input business hours and custom messages, and accept customer comments for specialized orders.
Integrated Communication
Employees shouldn’t have to use multiple programs to get food where it has to go. Make sure the program has integrated communication features that allow restaurants and drivers to chat directly with dispatch without having to switch between different apps or desktop screens. It will help to avoid unnecessary delays and miscommunication.
Data Analytics
Smart restauranteurs know how important it is to collect accurate data on driver and customer behaviors. A good delivery software solution will generate instant reports and daily spreadsheets that will make it easier to keep track of customer transactions and employee payments. Adequate data collection and analytics are also essential keys to ensuring that drivers are not pocketing cash payments, so it can help to reduce employee thefts.
Distance-Based Delivery Fee Options
So far, this article has focused primarily on the basics. Most software programs offer some level of data analytics, though available options vary significantly in terms of ease of use for both customers and employees. It’s the added features that really set some programs apart.
Advanced delivery fee calculation is not as common a feature in restaurant delivery software, but it’s an essential one for any restaurant with a diverse local customer base. The ability to calculate delivery fees based on how many additional miles or minutes the driver must put in to get meals to where they need to go helps customers understand how much they’ll be charged and business owners determine how much they need to pay drivers. It’s considered an add-on feature, but restaurant owners would do well to consider it a necessity.
Automated Dispatch
AI-driven automated dispatch systems are also considered add-on features, but they can make a big difference when it comes to both customer satisfaction and employee productivity. It can calculate optimal routes, estimate prep and travel times so that customers know what to expect, and even assign pickups automatically to ensure on-time deliveries.
The Bottom Line
All restaurants can benefit from offering delivery services, but most need some help with managing logistics. High-quality restaurant delivery software offers a cost-effective solution.
