Dylan Purcell Lowe on AI Will Better Equip Restaurant Management

Artificial Intelligence is equipped to handle more data than we can imagine. Data and data analysis is the bread and butter of what artificial intelligence is capable of. All too often restaurant management becomes bogged down by the details of the data that they need to keep track of that it becomes more difficult for them to effectively provide quality customer service and management to other parts of the restaurant.

The bread and butter of the management is to ensure that the restaurant as a whole is running smoothly. That can be quite the monumental task when coupled with the fact that they need to keep track of all the small details such as inventory, staffing schedules, and more.

Quantifiable data is the information that relies on facts and numbers. This is the information that artificial intelligence is best equipped for. Using AI to gather and distribute this type of data not only cuts down on time but also can help to reduce the overall amount of errors that stem from the work being done by a human.

Qualitative data is the interactions and information that relies on human touch and empathy to be completed well. This includes staff and customer interactions. By freeing restaurant management to focus on the qualitative data instead of bogging them down with the quantifiable stuff allows them to cultivate better relationships and ensure better customer service.

How exactly do artificial intelligence and deep learning fit into the restaurant industry and how can it be used to equip the management staff better to do their jobs more effectively? There are quite a few ways.

Health and Safety
Restaurants frequently go through health inspections, whether scheduled or due to probable cause. AI and automation can help restaurant management keep better track of commonly overlooked factors that can lead to a negative report such as expiration dates and food temperatures.

Diner Experience
Utilizing artificial intelligence and deep learning can help provide restaurant managers with the data needed to provide unique and in-depth marketing opportunities that provide a better experience for the patrons. This could include developing consumer-centric menus, quick turnarounds, and giving the front of the house more hospitality opportunity.

Employee Management
AI and further automation can equip restaurants with the tools they need to manage their employees better. This can include scheduling staff, mass communication, and limiting overall errors. Humans are fallible and can make mistakes, especially with repetitive tasks; tasks that robots and AI are more equipped to handle. Eliminating these mistakes can lead to better profits and less frustration.

Long strides are being taken within the hospitality industry such as restaurants whose dishes are completely prepared without the assistance of humans. So much can be done to improve this industry and provide the management to spend more time engaging meaningfully with customers and employees. AI and deep learning will be crucial in getting them there.

Originally posted on Medium.