The restaurant industry has evolved significantly in the past decade, with a massive surge in mobile ordering, delivery, and technology that has revolutionized customer experience and operations. As a result, restaurants around the world are turning to a variety of data-driven solutions to maximize their profits and stay competitive.
Account-based analytics apps for restaurants can provide invaluable insights into customer behavior, marketing strategies, operations, and more. However, choosing an analytics provider can be challenging, as there are dozens of apps available today that all offer different features and benefits.
In this guide, we’ll explore the key features of account-based analytics apps, how to evaluate and understand them, and ultimately how to make the best decision when selecting an analytics provider.
What Is an Account-Based Analytics App?
An account-based analytics app is a software solution that allows restaurant owners and operators to gain insights into customer behavior, operations, and sales. By tracking data across a variety of different sources, these apps provide an overview of how the restaurant is performing and the opportunities for improvement.
Account-based analytics apps typically provide a dashboard with visualizations of data to give an understanding of various metrics in meaningful ways. Some apps offer more granular metrics through their own proprietary algorithms that give an even deeper insight into customer behavior.
These apps can also come with additional features such as customer segmentation, marketing campaigns, and loyalty programs.
How to Evaluate and Understand Account-Based Analytics Apps
When evaluating account-based analytics apps, the first step is to understand what the app offers and how it will benefit your restaurant. Many apps provide similar features, but there are also subtle differences.
For example, some apps focus on customer segmentation, while others focus on customer engagement. Some apps are more comprehensive and provide insights on everything from menu item performance to loyalty program management.
It’s important to study the features of each app and determine which features are necessary for your restaurant’s success. Consider the following factors:
• Security and Privacy: Make sure the app is secure and that the data it collects is kept private.
• Scalability and Usability: An app should be easily scalable to accommodate an increasing number of users and transactions. Additionally, the app should be user-friendly so that employees can easily navigate the dashboard.
• Robust Reporting: The app should generate comprehensive and informative reports and provide full visibility into restaurant analytics.
• Integrations: If the restaurant uses other platforms for marketing, payments, or loyalty programs, the app should integrate seamlessly with them.
• Pricing: Look for an analytics app with a pricing structure that is affordable and aligns with the restaurant’s needs.
Once you’ve evaluated the apps, it’s important to understand the data visualizations. Look for data sets that can be used to measure different metrics, like customer journey insights or customer retention.
Also, determine how the data will be used to make decisions. For example, if the dashboard shows a steep decline in customer spending, a business must decide how to adjust their strategies to increase revenue.
Finally, consider the insights the app can provide for the long-term. A restaurant should strive to understand its customer base and stay ahead of the competition. Immediate feedback is helpful, but being able to view data and long-term trends is essential for success.
