Basic Skills Needed
To effectively operate a restaurant Point-of-Sale (POS) system, a combination of technical, mathematical, and modern payment method understanding is essential. Firstly, familiarity with the specific software being used in the establishment is crucial, as POS systems vary in functionality and features. This software facilitates important tasks such as capturing sales, inputting orders, and managing inventory.
Basic math skills are indispensable for various tasks, including managing seating charts and processing payments. Moreover, understanding how to accept diverse payment methods, including credit cards, digital wallets, and even cryptocurrencies, is becoming increasingly important. The capability to manage and track inventory, alongside automating processes like accounting and customer loyalty programs, also plays a significant role.
Another critical skill set involves operating POS hardware, which can range from simple card readers to more sophisticated smart terminals capable of handling complex business tasks. Additionally, leveraging software features for inventory management, employee management, accounting, customer loyalty, and industry-specific tools is necessary for efficient operation.
Training Provided by POS System Companies
Specialized training programs are offered by POS system companies to ensure restaurant staff can integrate and utilize these systems effectively. For instance, companies such as Toast offer comprehensive onboarding processes, tailored to a restaurant's specific business model and workflow. This training, conducted by Implementation Specialists, covers various critical aspects of restaurant operations, including labor and food cost management, improving table turn times, and enhancing guest relations.
The support from POS system companies extends beyond initial training sessions, with Implementation Specialists providing remote Go-Live support during the system's first few days of use. This phase includes remote guidance, problem troubleshooting, and additional training if necessary, ensuring a smooth transition to the new system.
Common Challenges in Training
Training staff to use a restaurant POS system involves navigating through several challenges. The complexity of these systems, due to their integration with various hardware and software components, poses a significant hurdle. Understanding the multifunctional and interconnected nature of devices like barcode readers, scanners, and card readers is essential.
Testing a POS system involves comprehensive front-end and enterprise-level testing, ensuring seamless customer and administrative functions. The need for a separate testing lab and ensuring compatibility across different operating systems and devices adds to the logistical and technical challenges. Compliance with Payment Card Industry (PCI) standards for payment modes is also mandatory, further complicating the training process.
References
Next Generation Restaurant POS from Otter
The next generation of POS is here. Otter consolidates everything you need to run your business into one system. Manage all your apps, orders, analytics, and marketing with ease.
- Increase your revenue by reaching more channels
- One mission control center for your restaurant
- Reduce your expenses through self-serve options
Learn more about Otter POS
About Otter
- Increase revenue up to 10% with Marketing*
- Reduce storefront downtime by up to 50% with Live Alerts*
- Increase sales up to 50% with Digital Dine-In's QR code ordering*
- Reduce missed orders to less than 1% with Order Manager's Auto-Accept feature*
- Supercharge your food business with our all-in-one restaurant POS system*