Paging systems utilised in restaurants have become an every day sight, but why do restaurants use pagers? There are three styles of system which are most frequently used, Waiter or Server paging, diner paging systems and push for service pagers. Each of these systems has its own individual use, Let’s examine the different types of restaurant pager system and how they are used.
Waiter Pager Systems
Server pagers are used for communicating between the kitchen and serving staff on the restaurant floor, the transmitter is situated within the kitchen, these often have several calling buttons with an area next to the to write down the staff members name, for instance “Button 1 Mary” “Button 2 Joe” in this example Mary would have pager number 1 and Joe pager number two. When the chef has food complete for Mary to collect he presses button 1 and Mary will be immediately alerted by a vibration on her pager that the kitchen has called. Some of the superior quality systems even have automated recall which calls the wait staff again if the food isn’t collected.
The advantage of using this sort of system for the restaurant owner is that they do not need to utilize runners to deliver food to the diner, serving staff can pick up their own food from the kitchen but don’t have to to go back to the kitchen until called. this concentrates their time on the restaurant floor with customers making sure that diners get the very best service. Using waiter pagers also offers the opportunity to run a restaurant without the necessity for excessive staff numbers.
The benefit for that guest is they receive better service because the waiting staff can be found if the diner need them to place further orders, this needless to say also benefits the restaurant operator because the check average tends to be higher if customers get better service. It also ensures that meals are picked up at once from the kitchen and delivered to the customers table before it begins to go cold or the chefs excellent sauce drys up under the heat lamps on the pass.
Guest Paging Systems
Guest pagers are used to help manage queues and wait times during busy times within the restaurant. Maximising table turns during busy periods is essential for a restaurant operator, if the restaurant is busy and walk in customers need a table then it is possible that they will have to wait for a table to become available. Offering a guest pager to allow diners to relax and wait in the bar or in a patio area is an excellent solution. Guest Paging Systems are available having a choice of pager types, the original coaster pager was most likely one of the first styles offered and remains in common use today, they are shaped like a drinks coaster and will flash and vibrate when paged. New technology systems such the HME Wireless GuestCall IQ guest pagers tend to be more compact and include changeable inserts for the pagers which can be used for restaurant branding or to market and promote specials. The effect of using a guest paging system is it reduces the possibility of walk aways’. Once a guest is given a pager they can move to the bar area and sit and relax with a drink whilst waiting their table.
When the table is ready the host or hostess simply enters the appropriate pager number and calls the waiting diner that need be seated. Reducing walk aways during busy periods can have a substantial influence on the revenue of a restaurant. Maximising revenue during busy periods need to be a priority for all restaurant operators.
Push for Service Pager Systems
Push for service pagers aren’t quite as widespread in restaurants as the previous two sorts of pager systems but they do have their place. A small push button unit is located on the diners table when they are seated and the diner is offered the chance to call the wait staff when they want service. Some operators feel that this makes their staff reactive as opposed to proactive. It is however an essential tool if a restaurant is operated with low staff numbers, If wait staff are so busy that they don’t see a guest attempting to get their attention the customer may not bother to order further drinks or deserts. This is what the push for service pagers eliminate. A simple press of the button will alert the waiting staff and they’re going to see the number of the calling table clearly displayed on their pager.
Call for service pager systems are all about reacting to the customers desires and making certain that the guest gets the best service and the operator maximises revenue opportunities with each table.
If you would like information on Restaurant Push for Service Pagers click the link or Call Pager Call Systems on 0845 6444109
In the US please contact HME Wireless for Guest Pagers 866 611 4202