FutureWire - futurism and emerging technology

Wednesday, September 20, 2006

Restaurant Touchscreen Ordering a Hit With Patrons

Bytes, a new cafe in the UK town of Canterbury (of Chaucer fame), is making a name for itself with its high-tech ordering system. Each table is equipped with a 15-inch touchscreen, from which patrons can place their orders.

Aside from helping Bytes save money on wait staff and menu printing, the touchscreens allow the restaurant to build a database of customer preferences, and to change items and prices on the fly. The touchscreens also double as game consoles, keeping the kids occupied.

So far, patron response to the touchscreens is overwhelmingly positive, and the owner is already considering opening a second location. As long as customers respond just as enthusiastically to the food, Bytes appears to have a bright future.

Source: SelfServiceWorld