Restaurants Using Web-Based Tools?

Hi all,

I'm working on an article for a restaurant trade publication and I'm looking for an independent (or very small chain) restaurant owner or manager to interview on the subject of web-based tools. Specifically, I'm looking for a restaurant that uses four or more web-based tools in their business...these could be tools like Constant Contact, Microsoft Small Business web site builder, Google Apps, Open Table or Halo for restaurants. I'm pretty flexible.

If you fit the profile, please feel free to drop me a line at ackooser@gmail.com. Or if you have a favorite web-based tool of any sort that I should check out, I'd love to hear about it in this discussion. Thank you!

Tags: technology, tools, web

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Permalink Reply by Judy "the foodie" Asman on September 22, 2008 at 2:02pm

Hi, Amanda,
One of my clients, Tripleseat (also on FohBoh), has launched an easy-to-use Web-based application that enables restaurants to organize their private dining efforts. All the while enhancing productivity and customer retention. I'll be sending the news release your way in just a few! I can also get you names of satisfied customers using the application.

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Permalink Reply by Bill Baumgartner on September 22, 2008 at 2:19pm

Hi Amanda,

First, let me start off by saying, "I love to learn."

Second, I am unfamiliar with the majority of the web-based tools which you have mentioned.

I currently am a GM with The Great Steak & Potato Company, a small but growing philly cheesesteak restaurant chain. My restaurant is located in Cincinnati, Ohio.

I have intentionally slowed my upward management career, in order to focus my attention on an entrepreneurial passion of mine,
to coach and mentor aspiring managers on their journey to achieving their Greatest Selves.

In response to your query,
I am interested in web-based tools, but for building a "solid repeat-customer base,."
which would include:
Collecting of Guest Information,
Autoresponse,
Tools for Analysis of data,
Web site development, and
Analysis of data pertaining to the impact of the Program.

If this intersts you, let me know.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Bill

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Permalink Reply by Anthony Presley on September 23, 2008 at 6:42am

Amanda,

I am familiar with all of the apps you mentioned -- and we have several customers who are using Halo (combined with our TimeForge labor scheduling product, they are half way toward your goal of 4). I know that one of them is also using Quickbooks, but it is not likely the online / hosted version. I would be happy to see if they are using any other web-based applications, and send them your way.

Of course, I'm biased, but TimeForge, our labor scheduling, time / attendance, and daily log package is my favorite ... it builds schedules quickly, keeping the manager on the floor, and it ensures that communication occurs between employees and managers -- so there isn't any confusion over the scheduling.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions, or if you'd be interested in speaking to one of our clients.

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Permalink Reply by Erle Dardick on September 23, 2008 at 1:20pm

Hi Amanda:

I sent John Clay at Bread and Company your way. Wondering if he connected with you?

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Permalink Reply by Amanda C. Koooser on September 23, 2008 at 1:21pm

Hi Erle,

Thanks for that! I am in contact with John.

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Permalink Reply by Jason Lane on September 23, 2008 at 2:33pm

Hi Amanda,

I run a business that specializes in building a web prescence for restaurants by building and optimizing websites, managing email applications, creating, submitting and optimizing various forms of free content such as blogs & videos, and various social networking and web 2.0 tactics. I would love to help you out with your article, let me know if you're interested. Thanks!

Jason