The restaurant industry is moving fast in 2025, and staying on top means knowing what’s hot and what’s not. Restaurant management software is no exception. Take notes as we spill the tea on what’s IN and what’s OUT for restaurant management software.
IN
- AI Software
- IN: Predictive analytics to forecast sales, optimize staffing, and reduce waste. AI can even recommend menu tweaks based on customer preferences and seasonal trends. Your software is basically a psychic chef now!
- Sustainability-Focused Features
- IN: Tools that track food waste, energy usage, and carbon footprints. Green certifications and eco-reports are the new must-haves for conscious consumers. Bonus points if it makes your menu feel more “local farm-to-table chic.”
- Mobile-First Functionality
- IN: Mobile apps for managers, staff, and customers. Think mobile POS systems, staff schedules on the go, and app-based loyalty programs. Tableside ordering and payment via smartphones are basically the new breadbasket—expected on every table.
- Hyper-Personalized Marketing
- IN: AI-driven campaigns that know what your customers want before they do. Think text alerts for favorite dishes or special offers tailored to dining habits. Your marketing is now their bestie.
- Sleek User Interfaces
- IN: Clean, modern designs that are intuitive for staff and managers alike. No more clunky, outdated screens. If it’s not easy to use, it’s not happening.
OUT
- Manual Inventory Management
- OUT: Spreadsheets and manual stock tracking. Real-time, automated inventory is the standard now. If you’re still counting boxes with pen and paper, it’s time to give that process a glow-up.
- Standalone POS Systems
- OUT: Systems that only handle transactions without integrating with other tools. Today’s restaurant management software needs to be an all-in-one powerhouse.
- Paper-Based Employee Scheduling
- OUT: Pinning schedules to the staff room board. Staff expect mobile apps with shift-swapping, notifications, and AI-optimized schedules.
- Static Menus
- OUT: Menus that never change or adapt. Customers want seasonal, customizable, and AI-suggested menu items. Boring menus are officially canceled.
- High Fees for Third-Party Apps
- OUT: Over-reliance on third-party delivery apps that eat into profits. Direct ordering systems are in, letting you keep more revenue and build stronger customer relationships. Take back control of your dough.
Knowing what’s IN and what’s OUT helps you stay competitive, attract customers, and simplify operations. By investing in the right tools and ditching outdated practices, you’re setting your restaurant up for long-term success. The restaurant landscape is evolving, and your software should evolve with it.
