Running a chain of multi-location restaurants can be overwhelming, especially when things don’t run as smoothly as they should. Because we are increasingly relying on technology as part of operations, ensuring that technology won’t cause downtime becomes more important.
When restaurants use tablets, computers, phones, or other devices to operate, making sure these devices are all properly secure and charged is a welcomed solution. The good news is that there’s an easy fix: a smart charging solution like the PowerSync Pro Gen 2. A smart charging solution keeps your staff, customers, and devices happy.
In this guide, we’ll show you how you can implement this powerhouse of a mobile smart hub in your multi-location restaurant chain.
Operating restaurants in multiple locations can mean significant workloads for your devices. For this reason, the first step to implementing smart hubs like the PowerSync Pro in your restaurants is by looking at your device needs.
First, take a moment to consider how many devices are used in your restaurant chains. If you have more than a dozen Apple handhelds like iPads in each location, you’ll need smart hubs boasting high-capacity charging and storage.
Another area of consideration is how you manage devices. Are there any bottlenecks in your current charging and device accessibility practices?
By evaluating your device management systems and practices, you’ll gain valuable insights into your dining chain’s device-related needs. The information you gather will be critical when you determine the ideal mobile smart hubs for your restaurants.
After assessing your needs and device management practices, you can now select an ideal mobile smart hub.
When evaluating options, there are several criteria to consider.
Choose solutions that offer compatibility with various device types, scalability to accommodate future growth, robust security features to protect sensitive data, and easy integration with your existing systems.
If you’re using Apple devices, the PowerSync Pro 2nd Gen stands out. It’s a versatile mobile smart hub designed for multi-device charging and management.
This solution also offers zero-touch IT capabilities, so you don’t need to manage every device directly. All you need to do is have the PowerSync in place and monitor devices using OneSign access.
With your smart hub solution chosen, it’s time to develop a comprehensive implementation plan.
First, start by determining a realistic deployment timeline. The timeline determines when you will roll out the new system across all your restaurant’s locations.
From here, identify which staff members will need training on the new system and plan accordingly. Doing this isn’t just important for inventory-related reasons but ensures device security since each iPhone or iPad can be traced to certain staff members.
A well-thought-out strategy will help you avoid potential pitfalls and ensure a smooth transition.
As you roll out your mobile smart hubs, remember to communicate your plans clearly to all stakeholders, including restaurant managers, IT staff, and frontline employees.
By involving everyone in the process, you’ll foster a sense of ownership and increase the likelihood of successful adoption.
Having the right mobile smart hubs for your restaurants is just half the battle. The other half consists of having the necessary infrastructure in place to support their adoption.
When it comes to infrastructure, there are two areas that will demand your attention. First is the availability of power outlets. Ensure that there are outlets in areas that are visible to your restaurants’ management and staff to prevent device loss.
Another part of your restaurant chain infrastructure to develop is WiFi. Upgrading your WiFi enables you to improve your OneSign connectivity to your smart hubs, which is essential for remote monitoring and access.
Follow these steps, and you’ll create an environment that maximizes the benefits of your new smart hub system.
With your infrastructure ready, you’re ready to install and configure your smart hubs. When installing your smart hubs, you must first unbox and physically install them in their designated locations.
From here, connect the hubs to your network and power supply, then configure the software settings according to your specific needs.
You must also test the system thoroughly to ensure all features are working correctly. During this process, pay close attention to the visual status indicators on your smart hubs.
The PowerSync Pro Gen 2 has LEDs that provide valuable information about charging status and workflow progress. With this feature, quickly identifying which devices are ready for use becomes easier for your restaurant chain’s management and staff.
Successful implementation and optimization is an ongoing task. As you deploy your mobile smart hubs, monitor device usage patterns, charging efficiency, and any recurring issues or bottlenecks.
The data you gather will be useful when you make decisions about system or workflow improvements.
For example, you might discover that certain locations need additional hubs during peak hours. Also, there may be some device types that require more frequent charging.
By evaluating the performance of your mobile smart hubs, you’ll be a step ahead in ensuring that they meet your restaurant chain’s evolving device management needs.
Smart hub implementation across your restaurant chains can be challenging, but the benefits outweigh the initial struggles. From improved device management to enhanced operational efficiency, these innovative solutions can transform how your restaurants handle your devices to meet customer demands.
Take the next step towards better device availability and happier staff and customers.
Contact us at Bretford today for a free quote on our PowerSync Pro Smart Hubs and other charging solutions.