Advantages of Using Smart Hubs in High-Traffic Restaurants

Smart devices and mobile touch computers have become indispensable tools for many modern restaurants. From kitchen communications to POS transactions, these devices play a huge role in streamlining operations and improving customer service. However, these technologies are dependent on their batteries to operate. 

One solution that can ensure seamless deployment and use of smart devices is utilizing smart charging hubs. These systems can become a critical part of your operations, especially in high-traffic restaurants that require reliable and uninterrupted device performance.

In what ways does a restaurant charging station help owners and staff maintain productivity and seamless operations? Bretford has some answers to this question. 

The Shift to Mobile Technology in Food Establishment Operations

Tablets, smartphones, and mobile touch computers are now a common sight in many restaurants and food establishments. The additional functionality these devices provide is wide-ranging, making an impact in many aspects of your operations. 

• Order Taking: Staff can use the devices to take orders instead of using manual paper and pen. 

• Kitchen Communications: Smart devices allow front-house staff to relay orders to the cooks without having to leave the dining area. 

• Payment Processing: Smartphones and tablets can be incorporated into the restaurant’s point-of-sale system.

Integrating these innovations into your restaurant operations gives you access to the benefits they provide. However, there are challenges that you’ll have to consider and address to ensure seamless use of the devices. Connectivity issues — such as weak Wi-Fi signals — can disrupt the flow of operations, leading to delays and frustrations for both staff and customers. There’s also the risk of technical glitches, like frozen screens or software crashes.

There is one issue that’s often neglected but can result in major delays or a complete halt of operations: charging problems. A device without power won’t work at all, so it’s important to have a system that allows every device to be ready for deployment anytime. This system should also be centralized for easy access, safe from prying hands, and durable and long-lasting even with frequent use. 

Typical power outlets and chargers won’t do. These aren’t safe, and they’re prone to inconsistent charging, which reduces the operational time of the device. There is one solution that addresses all these issues while adding more functionality — the smart charging hub. 

Leveraging the Advantages of Smart Hubs

A restaurant with charging stations can enjoy multiple benefits that help enhance overall operations, customer service, and even security. Here are some of the definitive benefits you can leverage. 

Improving Efficiency in Restaurant Operations

Smart devices have plenty of features and added capabilities that increase their functionality. They can become mobile POS systems, communication devices, and digital order-tracking tools. In the past, the steps involved in these tasks required lots of manual work. Staff have to leave the dining area to relay information to the kitchen or bring payments to the cashier.

Smart devices — powered by charging hubs — eliminate this back-and-forth and allow staff to handle almost every process directly at the table. Thus, the innovation increases the overall speed and improves the efficiency of the restaurant.

Reduced Downtime and Disruptions

Having to charge smartphones and tablets can take precious time. In a non-centralized setup, charging can be disorganized and chaotic. These issues lead to longer downtime and disruptions to your operations.

Charging hubs minimize the downtime associated with the search for outlets or swapping out devices mid-shift. Thanks to this advantage, your staff can remain focused on their tasks, reducing disruptions and maintaining a seamless flow of operations. This benefit is especially advantageous during peak dining times.

Continuous Restaurant Monitoring

For restaurant owners and managers, smart charging hubs allow you to continuously monitor the devices deployed in the kitchen or dining area. You can integrate the smart hubs into security systems. That way, if an issue like unauthorized access or equipment malfunction occurs, you’ll get real-time notifications that allow you to take action immediately.

Real-Time Device Monitoring

Many charging stations provide additional features that allow for at-a-glance tracking of device battery levels, usage patterns, and more. This functionality ensures that no device runs out of battery unexpectedly. The alerts from the charging hub can notify staff when a device is low on power or needs maintenance, reducing the risk of tech-related interruptions.

Take Advantage of the PowerSync Pro Smart Hubs and Smart Docks

If you’re considering integrating smart charging hubs into your restaurant, Bretford has top-of-the-line products in store. Our high-performance smart hubs and docs are the ideal solution for your staff’s charging needs. 

The PowerSync Pro® – Gen. 2 Smart Hubs & Smart Docks come in various specifications: ones for iPads, iPhones, and mobile touch computers. Each unit is optimized for the specific device it charges. Plus, these units added features that improve efficiency and user experience. 

• Zero Touch IT: Restaurant managers and owners can easily control staff devices through the Imprivata Mobile Access Management that works with the smart hubs. Some functionalities include provisioning, asset tracking, and self-healing.
• Visual Status Indicators: Staff and customers alike will know if the device is fully charged at a glance thanks to the smart notification LEDs. 
• iOS Device Optimized: Several of our smart hubs are dedicated for use with iOS devices, such as iPhones, iPad Minis, and iPads. You can expect optimal performance and seamless software integrations with our units.

Wrapping Up: How Charging Trays Benefit Restaurants

Having a convenient and easy-to-access restaurant charging station is key to efficiency and improved customer service. These systems help ensure that the devices you deploy for waiters and kitchen staff are always ready to use and won’t die mid-shift. You can diminish interruptions while also streamlining processes like payments and order taking. 

Now is the time for a much-needed upgrade! If you’re a manager and owner planning to integrate charging stations into your establishments, Bretford has the products you need. Browse our catalog today and request a quote!