What is a Customer Facing Display POS System and Why Does Your Restaurant Need One?

“Quick summary” There are only a few things worth forsaking your precious restaurant space for, and one of those is a user-friendly point of sale (POS) customer display.

A customer-facing display is a useful tool for processing money and streamlining transactions. Additionally, it's an easy way to maintain your company modern and competitive.

As the name implies, a customer-facing display is a digital screen that enables clients to view and approve their requests in real-time, such as menu options, modifications, and costs. A POS-integrated customer display for restaurants has many advantages, including improved productivity and bigger check sizes.

This blog post will discuss everything you need to know about this effective element of restaurant technology if you're considering installing a customer-facing display in your restaurant.   

Let's get going.

What is a customer facing display POS system?

The customer-facing technology gives clients access to real-time details about their transactions, including the products they've purchased, the total cost of their bill, and any discounts or promos that might be applicable.

CFDs can enhance the entire customer experience by ensuring transaction accuracy and transparency.

Most modern diners like to observe their orders and transactions being rung up. It also helps them in tracking the order about the status of their order and how much more time it is going to take.

Giving them a feeling of authority enables them to understand how much you value their business and their confidence in your restaurant's reputation.

The payment flow will remain consistent because your staff will not have to repeat all orders to guarantee accuracy.

Benefits of customer facing display POS system

1. Improved Customer Experience

Among the clearest advantages of a point-of-sale display is the effect on the consumer experience. When your staff inputs the customer's buying details, the customer-facing display will show each item's price with applied discounts and taxes.

Customers highly value the transparency that a customer display offers, and this knowledge contributes significantly to building confidence between your staff and your clients.

The risk of misunderstandings between employees and customers is greatly reduced by POS displays, resulting in fewer order mistakes and voids.

Increased transparency, simplified ordering, and fewer errors improve the client experience.

2. Increased transparency

Transparency has become a major selling point for today's customers. Many customers want to learn more about the people who created the brand and how a company responds to errors. It also affects how they are treated inside the restaurant.

A POS display that faces customers can make them feel more secure in their transactions. They can be positive they're being charged fairly, and that maximum transparency is upheld by viewing the prices for each item they purchase, discounts, and taxes.

If customers see the itemized list and realize the total is too high for their budget, they can alter their purchase. Before they pay, they can change their order, saving time and money and reducing wastage.

3. Optimizes restaurant operation 

With customer-facing digital screens, your clients can check to see if their orders are received correctly and precisely. The expenses and fees also show up on the monitor. Your customers can quickly review their purchases using this before you complete them.

There will be no need to repeat each customer's purchase because your customer can look at the screen in front of them.

You can even use it to support your eco-friendly projects. The customer-facing screen POS can help minimize the need for printed receipts. The screen display will instantly deliver receipts to customers' emails based on their contact information.

4. Upselling opportunities

A customer-facing display POS may also be an effective instrument for restaurant upselling and persuasive selling. Upselling entails making recommendations for enhancements or complimentary extras that raise the overall cost of a customer's dinner.

With a customer display, upselling is simple because you can visibly display various variables or combo alternatives at the point of sale—the ideal time to entice hungry customers with something extra.

A POS customer display may also encourage suggestive selling, encouraging customers to purchase items other than those they have previously or would typically purchase. In this situation, you could use a customer display for advertising new menu items, emphasizing special deals, or giving more menu details.

And ultimately, all those bigger checks can result in a significant increase in income for your company.

5. Reduced errors

If you minimize errors in your order-taking process, you can speed up your checkout process while controlling your food expenses. 

So, the right and technologically advanced customer-facing POS display can quickly solve your problem. Customers can place their orders at restaurants using the customer-facing display.

Consider what would happen if your staff sent the wrong order ticket to the kitchen. The customer would refuse it, and your staff would have to repeat the procedure.

However, this is not the case if the customer can handle it themselves through the customer-facing display POS, which improves the experience while lowering expenses and waste.

Types of customer facing POS displays

Choosing the right POS display screen for your customer

1. Screen size and quality

Selecting the correct customer-facing screen size and quality for your customer-facing display is critical because it can affect the overall customer experience as well as the display's efficacy. The display should display the message or information you want to communicate to your clients and be visually pleasing and simple.

You can select a screen size and quality that meets your needs and represents your business's image by considering elements like the content type, watching distance, aspect ratio, environment, and general aesthetics. 

By doing this, you can ensure that your customer-facing display successfully conveys your message, engages visitors, and improves their overall impression of your company.

2. Integration with retail POS software

Integrating your retail POS software with a customer-facing screen display benefits your company in various ways.

Integrating a customer-facing screen with a POS system can streamline processes by eliminating manual duties like price checks, product searches, and order handling. It can speed up processes, improve effectiveness, and lower mistakes.

Integrating a customer-facing screen with a point-of-sale system can yield insightful information about consumer behavior and buying habits. Businesses can use this to spot trends, improve their marketing and sales tactics, and make wise business choices.

Integrating a customer-facing screen with a POS system can benefit companies by streamlining operations, enhancing customer satisfaction, boosting sales and revenue, and improving inventory control.

3. Customization options

Customizing the display with your company's logo and colors can help to improve brand awareness and generate a more unified and memorable consumer experience.

Try to find a customer-facing device that lets you alter the dashboard. Before completing a transaction, you should offer the opportunity to add a voluntary tip.

Another option is to enable the use of shop gift cards by allowing customers to tap their cards when required, and it is made possible with a strong customer-facing display system.

Companies may develop a more engaging, effective, and personalized customer experience with customization choices in customer-facing screen displays, which can boost sales, customer satisfaction, and commitment.

4. Durability and longevity

Durability and longevity are important factors when selecting a customer-facing screen display. A display that is not durable or does not have a long lifespan can result in costly repairs or replacements, which can negatively impact your business's bottom line.

Consider the operating environment of your customer-facing screen display. Displays used in harsh or outdoor environments require more durability and weather resistance than in controlled indoor environments. Also, consider the temperature range, humidity, and other environmental factors affecting the display's performance.

Regarding durability, consider the materials used to construct the display and the quality of the components and construction. In terms of longevity, consider the expected lifespan of the display and the availability of replacement parts and support services.

5. Price

Regarding customer-facing screen displays, balancing cost and functionality is important.

Choosing the extremely low-priced customer-facing screen display is not a wise business decision. You must evaluate many different things and their functionalities to make the right decision. 

On the other hand, it is also not feasible to choose the customer-facing display which is out of your budget as it will be a problem later on! 

Ultimately, the key is carefully considering your business's needs and goals when selecting a customer-facing screen display. Doing so allows you to choose a display that fits your budget while providing the functionality and impact your business needs to succeed.

Implementation process

1. Choosing a reliable POS customer display vendor

When choosing a reliable customer-facing screen display vendor, there are several factors that you should consider. 

Here are some of the most important ones:

(A) Display quality

The display quality is the most important factor. You want to choose a vendor that offers high-quality customer display screens with good resolution and brightness.

(B) Customization options

Depending on your business needs, you may require customized displays. So, look for a vendor that offers customization options, such as different sizes, shapes, colors, and mounting options.

(C) Compatibility with your software

The screen display vendor should offer screens compatible with your software and hardware systems.

(D) Cost-effectiveness

While quality is important, go for a vendor that offers screens at a reasonable price with value for money without compromising quality.

(E) Customer support

Choose a vendor that offers excellent customer support when you encounter issues or need installation, maintenance, or repair assistance.

2. Installing and setting up the display

Installing and setting up a customer-facing screen display may vary depending on the vendor and your specific display type.

Still, check out the following general process to get started:

(A) Choose the location

Determine the best location for the customer-facing screen display by considering factors such as visibility, accessibility, and security.

(B) Mount the display

Mount the display securely on the wall or other suitable surface conveniently visible to all the customers.

(C) Connect the display

Connect the display to a power source and any necessary cables or adapters.

(D) Configure the settings

Configure the display settings according to your location, such as resolution, brightness, and color.

(E) Install the software

Install any necessary software for the display, such as content management software, digital signage software, or media players.

(F) Create or upload content

Create or upload content for the display, such as images, videos, or interactive media. 

3. Training employees to use the display

Training employees to use the customer-facing screen display is crucial to get the expected return out of it. 

Here's how you can do it seamlessly:

(A) Give them a headshot of the process

Start by introducing employees to the customer display screen technology. Explain a POS display screen, how it works, and what it is designed to do. 

(B) Make them understand the benefits

Ensure employees understand why the customer-facing screen display is beneficial to the business in improving customer service, increasing efficiency, and reducing errors.

(C) Give them hands-on training

Give employees hands-on training through detailed guides, dealing with customers, and even through the help of 1:1 sessions which help them grasp better. 

(D) Give proper feedback

Observe employees as they use the customer-facing screen display and provide constructive feedback and coaching. 

4. Promoting the new display to customers

You have spent a lot on getting a customer-facing display for your restaurant. It will only be useful and generate desired results if your customers are fully aware of the process of using it. 

Promoting the new customer-facing screen display can increase customer engagement, improve sales, and enhance the overall customer experience. 

Here are some of the effective ways to promote customer-facing screen displays for your customers:

• In-store displays and signage
• Social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)
• Email marketing campaigns
• Digital advertising (e.g., Google Ads, social media ads)
• Video tutorials on your website and social media channels
• In-store demonstrations and training sessions
• Influencer marketing partnerships
• Public relations efforts (e.g., press releases, media coverage)
• Collaborations with complementary businesses or brands
• Offering incentives or rewards for customers who use the new technology.

So, constantly leverage the platform wisely and yield desired returns. 

5. Monitoring and maintenance

Monitoring and maintaining the customer display screen is crucial to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime in the long run. 

Here's how you can properly monitor and maintain customer-facing displays:

(A) Regular inspections

Inspect the display regularly to check for any signs of damage. 

(B) Software updates

Ensure up-to-date software is running on the customer-facing screen display. 

(C) Performance monitoring

Monitor the performance of the customer display screen to identify any potential issues, such as slow response times, error messages, or other signs of malfunction.

(D) Cleaning

Regularly clean the customer-facing screen display to remove any dust, fingerprints, or other debris that may accumulate on the screen.

(E) Backups

Make regular backups of any data or settings on the customer-facing screen display to help you recover quickly. 

Challenges and solutions

1. Technical issues

Customer-facing displays are becoming increasingly common in restaurants. However, these displays rely on technology, which can sometimes fail, causing frustration for customers and staff. And some technical issues restaurants face are software bugs, connectivity problems, electricity issues, or even hardware malfunctions. 

However, to mitigate these technical issues, restaurants should ensure that their customer-facing displays are regularly maintained and updated, and that staff members are trained to troubleshoot common issues. 

It's also a good idea to have a backup plan in place, such as a paper menu or an alternative ordering system, in case the display fails. By proactively addressing technical issues, restaurants can ensure a positive customer experience and minimize the impact of any technical difficulties.

2. Customer resistance

Customer resistance is a significant challenge in customer-facing displays in restaurants. It is common for customers to feel uncomfortable or unsure when using new technology, and this can lead to frustration and longer wait times. Additionally, some customers may prefer the personal interaction of ordering from a staff member rather than using a digital display.

• One solution to address customer resistance is to provide ample support and train staff members to guide customers through the ordering and offer step-by-step tutorials on the display itself. 
• Another solution is to design the customer-facing display as user-friendly and intuitive as possible, with clear instructions and prompts that guide customers through ordering. 
• Offering alternative ordering methods, such as traditional paper menus or ordering at the counter, can also help address customer resistance. 

3. Staff training

Staff training for customer-facing displays in restaurants can be a challenging task. It is due to various factors, including the complexity of the technology itself, changes to the way customers interact with staff, menu updates, and maintenance requirements. 

The technology behind CFDs can be difficult for staff members who are not tech-savvy to understand, and it may take time to train them effectively.

To address these challenges, restaurants should create a comprehensive training program with hands-on training, written materials, and ongoing support to ensure staff members feel comfortable using the technology. Setting aside regular maintenance and troubleshooting time is also important to ensure the CFD works properly.

4. Maintenance and upkeep

Maintenance and upkeep can be challenging for customer-facing displays in restaurants. These displays are constantly exposed to the elements, such as dust, moisture, and temperature changes, which can cause scratches. 

Additionally, the displays may experience physical damage from accidental bumps or spills. Restaurants must proactively maintain their customer-facing displays and minimize maintenance and upkeep challenges.

Some key strategies include:

(A) Regular cleaning

Regularly clean the customer-facing displays to remove dust, fingerprints, and other debris accumulated on the customer display screen.

(B) Protective covers

Protective covers can shield customer-facing displays from physical damage and environmental factors.

(C) Professional maintenance

It's a good idea to have a professional technician inspect and service customer-facing displays to ensure proper functioning.

5. Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity can be challenging when implementing customer-facing displays in a restaurant. It is connected to a restaurant's network, and hackers may be able to access customer data, payment information, or other sensitive data stored on the network.

Customer-facing displays are connected to the same network as other devices, which means that if one device on the network is compromised, it could also affect all other devices.

Restaurants must implement strong cybersecurity measures to address these challenges. It includes using firewalls, antivirus software, and data encryption. Restaurants should also ensure that all staff members are trained in proper cybersecurity practices. 

Additionally, restaurants should limit access to sensitive data and implement multi-factor authentication for remote access. By taking these steps, restaurants can help ensure that their CFDs are secure and that customer data is protected.

Best practices for using a POS display screen

1. Ensuring the display is visible to customers

Accuracy and customer visibility are a customer-facing display's two most apparent advantages. Therefore, when placing or mounting, you must select the ideal location and ensure that it is easily visible to your clients so they can easily access each phase of the transaction.

It is particularly essential to companies that process a high volume of transactions because it removes the possibility of mistakes and reduces the time invested in each transaction. 

It also lets customers see which products have been added or eliminated from their order, making them feel more at ease and in control of their order.

2. Providing clear and concise information

Providing clear, concise customer information is crucial for the best-in-class customer experience. 

Here's how you can do it:

(A) Use simple and easy-to-read fonts

Choose fonts that are legible and easy to read from a distance. Avoid using complex or decorative fonts that can be difficult to decipher.

(B) Keep the information brief

Display only the most important information your customers need. Be concise and use bullet points or short sentences to convey your message.

(C) Use contrasting colors

Use contrasting colors for your background and text to make the information stand out. Avoid using colors that clash or make the text difficult to read.

(D) Use visuals

Visuals can be more effective than text alone and can help customers understand the information more quickly. So, incorporate images or graphics appropriately to help convey your message. 

3. Upselling effectively

Among the best practices of the customer display screen is to help upsell your products effectively for your restaurant. 

There are several benefits of using customer-facing screen displays for upselling in restaurants. 

Let's find out:

(A) Increased revenue

Upselling can lead to increased sales and revenue for restaurants. By suggesting add-ons or upsell items, restaurants can increase the average ticket size of each customer.

(B) Improved customer satisfaction

When done correctly, upselling can enhance the customer experience by providing personalized recommendations and enhancing the overall dining experience.

(C) Customization

Customer-facing screen displays allow for greater customization of menu items, as customers can easily add or remove toppings or make substitutions. 

4. Regular maintenance and cleaning

Regular maintenance and cleaning of your customer-facing screen display are quite beneficial. 

Here's why? 

(A) Increased lifespan

Regular maintenance and cleaning extend your screen display's lifespan and avoids costly repairs or replacements.

(B) Improved performance

A clean screen display can perform better, with sharper images and clearer text, enhancing the overall customer experience.

(C) Reduced downtime

Regular maintenance can help identify and address issues before they become bigger problems, reducing the likelihood of downtime or interruptions to service.

(D) Enhanced appearance

A clean and well-maintained customer display screen can create a positive impression on customers and enhance the overall aesthetic of your establishment.

5. Responding to customer feedback

Responding to customer feedback is crucial for any business, especially those using customer-facing display screens.

Some reasons why responding to customer feedback is important:

(A) Improving customer satisfaction

Responding to customer feedback shows that you value their opinions and are committed to providing a positive experience leading to increased customer satisfaction and a better brand reputation.

(B) Addressing issues quickly

By responding promptly to customer feedback, you can identify and address any issues or concerns before they become bigger problems. It can help prevent negative reviews or complaints.

(C) Enhancing the customer experience

You can identify areas to improve the customer experience by listening to customer feedback.

(D) Generating repeat business

By responding to customer feedback, you can create a positive relationship with your customers and encourage them to return. 

Conclusion

Implementing a customer-facing display in your restaurant can provide numerous benefits. But remember to consider factors such as display size, placement, and compatibility with your POS system when selecting a customer-facing display.

Additionally, train your staff to use the display effectively and ensure it is properly maintained to maximize lifespan.

By carefully considering your options and following the best practices outlined in this guide, you can successfully implement a customer-facing display and reap its benefits.

Overall, a customer-facing display can be a valuable tool for improving the dining experience for your customers and streamlining your restaurant's operations. 

If you look forward to availing of this customer-facing display POS or any related guidance, our team of experts will understand your requirements and help you!