There are countless ways to tackle analytics for the restaurant industry. Whether you’re an independent operator, a data.com/en/solutions/restaurant-chains/’ target=’_blank’>chain, or a franchisor, you need to investigate different account based analytics programs to understand how to best use data to inform decisions.
When it comes to restaurant analytics, one of the biggest questions is: What should you look for?
In this article, we’ll provide ten key insights you should consider when evaluating an analytics platform for your restaurant. We’ll look at features such as data accuracy and accessibility, menu analysis, sales and marketing insights, and more. With this information in hand, you’ll be equipped to make the most informed decisions for your restaurant.
1. Data Accuracy and Accessibility
It’s critical to choose an analytics platform that can provide accurate and up-to-date data. Older or inaccurate data won’t be helpful in solving problems or building strategies. You’ll also need a platform that offers deep access to the data you need, ensuring that it’s easy to find the answers you’re looking for.
2. Menu Analysis
Menu analysis is essential for restaurant analytics. With a robust analytics platform, you should be able to understand sales per item and analyze factors such as pricing. You’ll also be able to identify popular dishes, determine what’s trending, and optimize your menu to maximize profits.
3. Sales and Marketing Insights
Another key factor to consider is how data can help you with sales and marketing decisions. An analytics platform should provide insights that help you understand customer demographics, track performance, and create promotional initiatives. With the right program in place, you can turn data into insights to inform marketing decisions and increase sales.
4. Cost
There’s no doubt that cost is an important factor when choosing an analytics platform. You’ll want to make sure that the program you’re considering provides the features you need at a price that fits within your budget.
5. Integration
You’ll also want to consider how the program integrates with other systems. For example, is it easy to integrate with payment processors and reservation systems? Can you sync customer data between different platforms? These are essential pieces of the analytics process, so be sure to evaluate how the program integrates with other systems.
6. Insights and Reporting
It’s equally important to consider the insights and reporting that the program provides. Does the platform allow you to customize reports and drill down into specific data points? Can you receive personalized insights that are tailored to your operations? Be sure to look for a program that provides comprehensive insights.
7. Scalability
If you’re a franchisor or multi-unit operator, it’s important to think about the scalability of the program. Does the platform allow you to manage multiple data points across multiple locations? Can you easily add more locations as your business grows? The right analytics platform should be able to scale with you.
8. Security
Security features are an essential part of the analytics process. When evaluating a program, make sure that you understand how data is stored and secured. Look for features such as encryption and user permissions to ensure that the data you’re collecting is safe and secure.
9. Customer Support and Training
You’ll also want to be sure that you’re choosing a program with the support and training you need. Make sure that customer support is available and that you understand how to best use the platform to make the most of the data.
10. Usability
The last crucial factor is usability. You should be able to easily access and understand your data, with easy-to-follow visuals and intuitive controls. The program should also be straightforward and easy to use, so your team won’t be intimidated by the technology.
As you can see, there are many different factors to consider when choosing an account based analytics program for restaurants. We hope this list of key insights will help you make the most informed decision, so you can make the most of the data.
