How to Choose the Perfect Back of House Software for Your Restaurant: 3 Expert Tips

In the fast-paced world of the restaurant industry, technology has become a pivotal force driving success. Your choice of back of house (BOH) software can either streamline your operations, leading to increased efficiency and profits, or complicate matters and hinder your business’s growth. As a restaurant owner or manager, selecting the ideal BOH software can be a daunting task with a plethora of options available. In this guide, we’ll demystify the process and provide you with three invaluable tips to ensure you get the best value for your investment. Let’s dive in!

Understanding the Back of House:

Before delving into software selection, it’s crucial to grasp the concept of the back of house (BOH). The front of house (FOH) is where your guests dine, and your servers and bartenders work their magic. In stark contrast, the BOH is the engine room of your restaurant – the place that makes all the culinary magic happen behind the scenes. It comprises three primary areas: the kitchen, administrative offices, and employee spaces like break rooms and washrooms. While customers may never see these areas, they are the lifeblood of your restaurant, where your team orchestrates the art of food preparation and service. Investing in the right BOH software is, therefore, paramount to keeping these operations running smoothly.

Essential BOH Software Solutions for Restaurants:

Navigating the myriad of available BOH technologies can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the process. Here are some essential software solutions that are integral to BOH operations:

Point of Sale (POS) System: A modern POS system goes beyond order and payment processing. Look for one that facilitates collaboration between the FOH and BOH. For instance, it should allow chefs to curate menus within the system and seamlessly integrate with inventory management. Skipli’s Point of Sale is a prime example, offering mobile order-taking and error reduction features.

Kitchen Display System (KDS): KDS software is designed to enhance kitchen accuracy and efficiency. It integrates with your POS, ensuring that server orders appear instantly in the kitchen. This is especially valuable in complex kitchen layouts with multiple stations. Skipli’s Kitchen Display System enhances guest satisfaction with features like grouping and color-coded tickets.

Inventory Management Software: Managing inventory and food costs can be a restaurant’s greatest financial challenge. An effective inventory management system helps track ingredients, reduce food waste, increase profit margins, and streamline BOH operations. Skipli’s Inventory Management system is a robust solution that integrates with the POS and connects with accounting software and inventory suppliers.

Accounting Software: Proper financial management is crucial. Accounting software like NetSuite, QuickBooks, or Xero can help you keep financial transactions, accounts payable, and accounts receivable organized. Ensure that your accounting software integrates seamlessly with your POS for efficient financial management.

HR Software: Your restaurant’s success depends on your team, making HR management vital. The right HR software simplifies shift management, payroll processing, and labor cost optimization. Systems like Skipli, integrated with Push Operations, help you manage employee payroll details and calculate wages and labor costs.

Back Office Management Software: Consider software that consolidates various back office functions into a single solution. Skipli’s Back Office Management tools enable digital invoice processing, bill payments, and data synchronization from the POS.

Key Features Your BOH Software Should Offer:

Convenient bill payment solutions to manage expenses efficiently.

Vendor flexibility for seamless product ordering and transfers between locations.

Flexible invoicing capabilities that allow for easy email or photo-based invoicing.

Tips for Purchasing Restaurant BOH Software:

As you embark on the journey of selecting BOH software, consider these valuable tips to make an informed decision:

Identify Your Needs: Recognize the specific requirements of your restaurant. A food truck will have different needs compared to a multinational chain. Make a list of essential features and nice-to-have extras to ensure you invest wisely.

Understand Your Goals: Define your business goals and objectives. Choose software solutions that align with these goals. For instance, if improving staff efficiency is a priority, opt for user-friendly systems that boost productivity.

Less is More: Simplify your BOH software landscape. Whenever possible, seek all-in-one solutions or software providers that support integrations with your preferred systems. This approach saves time and money in the long run.

Your restaurant’s back of house is where culinary magic happens, and the right BOH software can significantly impact your guests’ dining experience. By selecting the right technology, such as a POS, KDS, inventory management software, and more, you can enhance quality and efficiency. Armed with an understanding of your needs and goals, as well as our three valuable tips, you’re now well-equipped to make an informed decision when choosing BOH software. Happy shopping, and here’s to the continued success of your restaurant!