We talk a lot about technology over here. After all, it’s our bread and butter. But we also understand that most aren’t techies like us, and new systems can often be overwhelming. This is why we recommend taking small steps that help you realize how technology can significantly increase efficiency, profitability, and security. Many venues see success with the small-step approach. Here’s how you can make that shift, too:
1. Define why you want to transition to technology
We can tell you a hundred reasons why you should, but it’s not going to mean anything if you don’t have a reason or objective of your own. Perhaps you want to increase the speed of the night, discover insights about your clients, understand how your club and employees are doing, or even generate more pre-sale revenue. All of this is possible with technology. The more you know about why you want to go down the route, the better technology partner you’ll find and the easier time you’ll have in getting staff buy-in.
2. Find the right partner
The best thing you can do is find a company who will act as a true partner in making your club more profitable. They should fully understand your club’s operations and strategies to provide the best solution to your needs. Also consider using a system that has multiple solutions on one platform. Not only does this reduce the number of vendors you have to work with on a daily basis, but also better integrates data about your club’s performance.
3. Start small
The reason technology, or any new system for that matter, seems overwhelming is because people think of it as one big overhaul rather than a series of small steps. Adopting technology is a marathon, not a race. Pick the technology solutions that you absolutely need today and blend it into your current operations. Once you get the hang of the new features you added, you’ll feel more comfortable about what technology can do for your venue and will be ready to add more necessary features.
4. Train staff
Get all staff members together who will be interacting with the new software. Having everyone in one place makes it easy for you to introduce the system, show them how it works, and answer any questions they may have. It may also be beneficial to bring in the company with whom you’re partnering to clarify any points or walk through the system. Do this every time a new wave of features is implemented in your venue, and always show continuous support. After all, if you don’t believe in the system, why should your employees? Support and training ensures your venue runs like a well-oiled machine and sees better results.
Whitney Johnson is the global director of marketing for BookBottles. Contact her at whitney.johnson@bookbottles.com.
