Restaurant tablet POS systems are an important tool that can benefit any restaurant.  They speed up ticket times, create an easy system for keeping track of checks and allow managers to keep tabs on what servers are doing.  For all of these reasons and more, restaurant tablet POS systems improve customer service.

How do they speed up ticket times?

Restaurant tablet POS systems speed up ticket times in many ways.  They can provide a uniform system for grill slips, which makes it much easier on the cooks.  The last thing a cook wants to worry about is trying to read the handwriting of a server.  Also, because the slip printer can be set-up next to the grill, it speeds up time for the server.

Why are check tracking features important?

Having slips tracked in a computer system is extremely important.  It helps expedite the process of cashing out customers, because you will have all of the information that you need right in front of you.  The ability to track checks also helps when making sure that customers do not walk out on their check.  You will be able to easily check to see if they paid their bill by looking to see if it is still in the system.

How can managers keep tabs on servers?

Restaurant tablet POS systems are also useful to oversee that servers are doing their job properly.  The manager on duty can go into the computer system and look at everything that a server has open and view what the customer is being charged.  This way, if an employee is attempting to give away food, it can easily be spotted and taken care of.

If you own or manage a restaurant and are not currently implementing a restaurant tablet POS systems, I strongly urge you to think about the advantages they provide.  Restaurant tablet POS systems can change your business in many positive ways.

Point of sale systems are common in the restaurant industry, primarily because of their numerous benefits. Restaurant tablet POS systems streamline the flow of food, increase accountability, and offer a wide range of optional add-ons making them customizable to each restaurant, bar, pub, and diner's individual needs. The decision to add restaurant tablet POS systems can be made before a restaurant opens or even after years of business. If you are considering a tablet POS system for restaurants here is what you need to know:

• POS Software: Since 1992 POS software has been created that runs on a variety of platforms. If you already have the hardware for a POS System or you are considering picking up refurbished hardware you will also need to look into POS Software. Some software offered is completely free but often does not offer customer support and are limited in their functionality. Other companies offer relatively low cost software options ranging in price from only $100 or even less to about $1000.
• POS Hardware: The cost of POS hardware depends on the number of terminals and accessories a restaurant wants. Because of this the cost of a POS system may vary and can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000. Options typically included are a server, touch-screen monitors with credit-card processing attachments, a kitchen printer, receipt printers, and software, which can be customized for the venue's needs.
• IPad and Tablet POS Systems: Restaurant tablet POS systems may be new, it is rapidly gaining popularity. These systems are often a fraction of the cost of a traditional system and have a sleek modern look to them. Since this industry is new it is still rapidly adapting and changing, constantly adding new features and options.

If your considering upgrading from a standard cash register to a tablet POS system for restaurants the options and costs can seem overwhelming. However, POS systems have much to offer. They can simplify communication between your service staff and kitchen. They also can track food usage and item popularity, as well as payroll and labor.   More often than not, owners find that restaurant tablet POS systems pay for themselves rather quickly, offering a great return on their investment.

According to modern statistics, people in the United States spend an average of $181 a month on restaurant meals, making it easy to see why opening a restaurant is such a popular entrepreneurial dream.

Many new restaurant owners make the mistake of thinking they have to choose a credit card processor they've never heard of to process transactions; the sort of company they imagine established restaurants and other larger business models already use. However, new entrepreneurs can and should turn to a familiar bank when possible as long as it offers the type of merchant services that can handle a restaurant's unique needs. In fact, most established restaurants and larger business models already work with the same banks you are familiar with on a personal and consumer level.

A restaurant merchant account should offer a few simple things to make it easier for you to:

• Get paid
• Get through the business day with fewer headaches
• File taxes, and
• Pay employees

What to Look for in a Restaurant Merchant Account

1. Software with a Simple Learning Curve

Right out of the box, any software that accompanies your merchant account should be easy to use, yet offer you fluid and modern functionality.

2. Software with a Digital Mind for the Restaurant Business

Because you have to spend enough time keeping staff members on their toes and your customers happy, a good merchant processor's software package should easily keep up with the fast pace of your food business without much input from you. The software should also be able to handle new information, menu changes and course of business changes with ease like:

• Sales
• Daily plate specials
• Expanding menus
• Seasonal items

The restaurant merchant account software should also handle administrative tasks for you, putting out easy-to-read, correct printouts for your records. In the food business, inventory is especially important because of seasonal price fluctuations and food spoilage. Your software should help you keep track of items that you need reorder and the items you already have in stock.

3. Modern Expectations Met

The merchant processor you choose should also accept every credit card out there. Though this is easier now than ever before, (since most cards have one of a few major logos), it is still important to make sure for yourself that the company you choose accepts everyone.

Customer service is also incredibly important. So many merchant account processors outsource their customer service to other countries and to people who are not qualified to handle your important business concerns in a timely, professional manner. When it comes to your business and livelihood, you should know that you are going to receive excellent customer service every time you contact your service provider via chat, phone, social media or email.

The benefits of offering customers alternative means of payment through restaurant merchant services processing are limitless. It is important to choose a provider who offers a comprehensive, efficient, and budget friendly system. PCI regulation compliance is also a major concern of restaurant owners, employing a system that maintains PCI compliance is essential to success.

Choosing a merchant service provider that is right for your business depends on outlining your unique restaurant credit card processing needs. Your service provider should offer a scalable system which allows for growth or downsizing. Restaurant tablet POS systems should be technologically advanced but easy for you and your staff to use. Having a system that quickly submits and processes information allows your staff to be efficient, productive, and accurate with meal ticketing and sale finalization.

If your business relies on mobile services, your restaurant merchant account provider must allow your staff to process sales in the field. Mobile credit card processing enables your staff and can boost your sales. When your restaurant is attending a festival or foodie event, you can offer your customers the convenience of paying for your services with their debit or credit card.

PCI compliance regulations outline how restaurant owners can avoid customer information fraud. Customer and company data breach can be a serious hindrance and maintaining PCI compliance will help you avoid unneeded risk. 

Restaurant credit card processing & PCI Compliance?

The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard outlines the requirements for all merchants that store, process, or transmit customer data. By using a POS system that is PCI compliant you are mitigating compromises, preventing storage of sensitive customer data, and supporting the PCI-DSS standard for cardholder safety and security.

If your restaurant tablet POS system is not PCI compliant, you could incur penalties and fines that reach the amount of $50,000 or more. You will also be classified as a Level 1 merchant which faces yearly audits of PCI regulation compliance. These audits can cost between $25,000-$35,000 per year. 

In order to ensure your restaurant merchant account provider is PCI compliant, it is important to check the validation list often. Remember PCI compliance regulations can change and adjust each year, be sure to check with your provider annually to ensure your systems remain up to date with compliance regulations.