Restaurant Industry Goes High-Tech: What to Ask AI Vendors
The restaurant industry is undergoing a technology renaissance. Robots, data-driven analytics tools, and voice AI are revolutionizing the way restaurants operate. But amidst the hype, it can be hard to separate the best from the bogus. As a restaurant owner, you need to know the right questions to ask potential AI vendors. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
1. Do you own your own tech stack?
Before diving into bed with an AI vendor, make sure you know exactly who you’re dealing with. Some vendors only own the “visible” part of their solution, with the rest relying on third-party systems. You want a vendor that owns the full tech stack and gives you complete control over your data. Consumer trust and privacy are crucial, so knowing who owns the data is a must.
2. Can you give me a live demo right now?
If an AI company can’t give you a live demo without an appointment, be cautious. They may not be as ready for primetime as they claim. Also, watch out for vendors with hidden call centers using human monitors to mimic AI actions. This leads to higher costs and less scalability. You want a vendor that relies exclusively on AI technology for consistent results.
3. How long until it knows my business and works as sold?
AI technology needs time to learn. Whether it’s your menu or your floor plan, the system needs an initial period of data gathering to truly tailor itself to your business. Ask vendors how long the onboarding process takes and hold them accountable for their timelines. Don’t be afraid to request metrics or customer testimonials that speak to the initiation phase.
4. What is the process for bringing on additional locations?
If AI proves successful, you’ll want to replicate that success across multiple locations. Ask vendors what efforts are needed for onboarding additional locations and channels. Avoid vendors who treat each new evolution as a whole new business. Look for vendors that can assist with a broader rollout without significant additional burden or disruption.
5. Any patents?
When it comes to high-tech systems like AI, patents matter. Seek out vendors with a suite of expertise and proprietary technology developed in-house. This shows they have skilled professionals on their team who can provide the highest level of support. AI is a scientific domain best understood by true engineers and AI specialists, so don’t settle for anything less.
AI is revolutionizing the restaurant industry, but entering the market now isn’t for the faint-hearted. These questions will help you ensure that any AI you invest in is the real deal. Don’t hesitate to explore your options and embrace emerging technology, or risk being left behind. So, what are your thoughts on AI in the restaurant industry? Have you had any experiences with AI vendors? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
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