Your restaurant tech is only as smart as the way you use it. You’ve invested in restaurant software. Great! But if you’re only using it to clock in employees and ring up cheeseburgers, you’re missing out on features that could save time, boost profits, and make your operations smoother than your Sunday gravy.
Here are five underrated software features that deserve a front-row seat in your daily grind:
1. Smart Forecasting = Smarter Scheduling
Your software likely has some kind of sales forecasting built in—and it’s not just for spreadsheets and finance enthusiasts. Use it to predict foot traffic and build smarter schedules. Too often, managers schedule based on gut feelings. But gut feelings don’t know about that massive soccer tournament coming up or last year’s rainy-day slump. Smart forecasting = the perfect number of hands on deck (and money saved on labor).
2. Real-Time Inventory Alerts
You could wait until your cook tells you you’re out of fries, OR you could let your software tell you first. Inventory tracking tools can alert you when key ingredients are running low, helping you avoid hangry, disgruntled guests. Bonus: it also helps prevent overordering and spoilage which will save you money.
3. Shift Notes & Communication Logs
That sticky note on the POS won’t cut it. Most restaurant management software offers digital shift logs, where managers can jot down notes to keep employees in the know about important business. In fact, most software is accompanied by mobile apps that employees and managers can share notes and reminders? It’s searchable, organized, and accessible for the whole team—so nothing gets lost in the sauce.
4. Built-In Training & Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Hosting
Training a new employee? Instead of scrambling for that binder from 2018, upload your SOPs, checklists, and training videos right into your system. Many platforms allow you to assign training tasks, track progress, and even quiz your team to ensure they’ve actually absorbed the info.
5. Employee Performance Metrics
Want to know who your top performers are—or who might need a little extra coaching? Your software can track things like upsells, speed of service, clock-in times, and more. It’s not about spying—it’s about recognizing your employees who are excelling and offering support where it’s needed most.
If your software is only doing the basics, it’s time to unlock its full potential. You’re likely already paying for the features—so why not use them to make your life easier and your restaurant more efficient?
