Since 2020 the restaurant industry has been knocked around and battered, with many companies falling by the wayside from the fallout. The secret really to improving any restaurant is efficiency developed to improve customer satisfaction as well as streamlining the operation. This guide is created to offer the key factors you should consider when choosing the right restaurant pager system for your business... it's not as easy as you might think!

Understanding Restaurant Pager Systems

So what does a restaurant pager system actually do? The pager system is usually designed around wireless communication devices that can notify customers or staff (or both!) when their attention is required. Think of 'staff' and 'customers' involved and either or both systems could be implemented as follows:

Customer or guest paging system: Most often used to notify customers when their table is ready.

Staff paging system: Most often used for staff between the kitchen to staff, or staff to staff notifications.

But there is a whole lot more to consider when considering either system and some aspects might make either system less viable for particular situations in restaurants pubs or bars. Here are some key factors:

1. Signal Strength and range Achieved

The size or the building materials of your restaurant can reduce the range for your pager system. If your restaurant has multiple floors, outdoor seating or a beer garden, ensure that the pager system has a strong and reliable signal. Some systems, like LRS (Long Range Systems) pagers, offer extended coverage to prevent signal drops. They also have repeaters for achieving much further range.

2. Battery Life and Charging

Some restaurant pager systems have batteries that might not even last a full shift! Ensure that systems have rechargeable pagers with docking stations for easy overnight charging. For example the LRS pagers will operate easily longer than a shift and can be up to 48 hours depending on the usage.

3. Durability and Quality

Pagers have a hard life, being subject to drops, liquids, general abuse, even wilful damage on occasion so ensure that the pager chosen is robust for all of these points.

4. Ease of Use and Customization

Pager systems that are simple to use will reduce staff training and will be increasing efficiency quickly. But also ensure that however simple the design, that things like programmable messaging, vibration levels, and custom alerts are all features. LRS paging systems allow a 're-branding' too that can keep your brand in front of customers.

5. Scalability and Expansion Options

Some paging systems are not expandable generally because of the type of wireless limitations imposed by OFCOM in the UK. However, there are a number of paging systems that operate in and around 459Mhz that allows up to two watts output and CAN be expanded much further so if you expand the company it's no problem.

6. Integration with Other Technologies and Equipment

There are many pager systems that can integrate with other equipment like POS, and kiosks are a common option these days. Most quality systems can integrate flawlessly, but some of the cheaper solutions are not designed to do so and that could be a problem later if you add other equipment to your restaurant.

7. Budget and Costs

High quality pagers with a systems long range generally have a higher cost and can take the knocks and bumps that pagers get every day and that leads to lower operating costs. For some of the cheaper systems available the replacement costs might well outweigh the slightly higher price of the better systems.

What are the Benefits of Using a Restaurant Pager System

Improved Customer Experience: Customers can roam freely on-site while waiting, reducing congestion in the waiting area and browsing what else is on offer or ordering drinks for example.

Increased Staff Efficiency: Wait staff can be notified instantly you need them, improving efficiency through good communication.

Better Table Turnover Rates: Notifying guests as soon as their table is ready optimizes seating arrangements and improves table turns.

Reduced Noise in the Restaurant: Silent alerts eliminate the need for loud announcements, creating a more pleasant atmosphere for customers or guests.

Fast Collection of Food When Ready: Kitchen staff can efficiently notify servers or guests when food is ready and still hot.

Why Might You Choose LRS Pagers?

LRS (today called Long Range Solutions) invented the customer pager, its the original and still the best. The LRS pagers are among the most reliable in the industry, known for durability, long-range signal strength, and are simple to use. Whether you need a guest paging system for Friday nights and busy weekends or a staff paging solution for improved communication, LRS provides scalable and high-performance options tailored to your exact restaurant's needs.

Where from here?

Ensuring you purchase the right restaurant pager system can and will affect your restaurants efficiency and customer satisfaction levels. Some systems even include data collection so you can see instantly how the pager systems are helping your business. Consider the factors like range, durability, expandability, as well as the integration to other systems to make a viable informed decision. LRS pagers stand out as a trusted choice for many restaurant owners and are used worldwide, they ensure seamless communication and an enhanced dining experience for customers or guests. Investing in a high-quality paging system will ultimately help your restaurant operate smoothly and provide an exceptional service to guests as typical LRS solutions are generally still operational ten years after purchase time.