Data is the next oil - In today’s hospitality industry, data is becoming as valuable as oil, fueling the advancements in AI and reshaping how restaurants operate. The evolution of point-of-sale (POS) systems from basic cash registers to cloud-based platforms is transforming how restaurants manage their operations. With the influx of data, POS systems are becoming more proactive, offering real-time insights that help businesses not only track revenue but also optimize profitability. This shift is creating exciting opportunities for restaurant owners to leverage technology to enhance efficiency and increase profits.
Simplifying Technology Maximizes Efficiency - The restaurant tech industry has often overwhelmed operators with too many choices, forcing them to navigate complex integrations themselves. Bryan Solar emphasizes that more options aren’t always better, as it adds an unnecessary burden to operators already managing day-to-day operations. At SpotOn, the goal is to simplify technology adoption by curating and integrating only the best solutions, reducing the complexity and "diligence pain" for restaurant owners. By offering a few well-vetted, reliable options, SpotOn aims to make technology more accessible and effective, allowing operators to focus on running their business.
Low Ego, High Value - Bryan Solar stresses the importance of providing high-value solutions over pushing proprietary products simply because they’re developed in-house. At SpotOn, the focus is on partnering with the best tools, whether first-party or third-party, like Ovation, which Solar praises for its quality. This "low ego, high value" approach ensures that operators receive the most effective solutions, keeping the end-user’s best interests in mind. By prioritizing what’s truly valuable for customers, SpotOn aims to create better tech stacks and foster longer, more meaningful customer relationships.
In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar sits down with Bryan Solar, Chief Product Officer at SpotOn, to discuss how data and technology are revolutionizing the restaurant industry. Bryan dives deep into how point-of-sale systems have evolved from basic cash registers to becoming the operational "brain" of modern restaurants. He shares insights on the power of data, how SpotOn curates top-tier technology solutions to simplify operators’ lives, and why prioritizing value over ego is key to long-term success. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a restaurant operator, this episode offers valuable takeaways on the future of restaurant tech.
Data Is The Next Oil
In today's restaurant landscape, data has evolved from being a passive tool to a strategic asset that drives growth. Modern point-of-sale (POS) systems have shifted from simply tracking sales to offering predictive insights powered by artificial intelligence. Bryan Solar highlights how this shift allows restaurant owners to be proactive in decision-making, optimizing operations, and boosting profitability.
"Data is the next oil,” says Solar, “people talk about AI and all of the things that it can do. But it's really fueled by data.”
By harnessing data effectively, restaurants can now anticipate challenges, seize opportunities, and keep more profits in their pockets.
Simplifying Technology Choices for Restaurant Operators
Restaurant operators are often overwhelmed by the sheer number of technology choices available, leaving them to navigate complex integrations. Bryan Solar addresses this pain point, noting that more choices aren’t always better. "What we’ve done is outsource the pain of vetting to people who have lots of other, real things to do," says Solar. SpotOn aims to simplify this process by curating the best solutions for restaurant operators, focusing on a few well-integrated, reliable options. By reducing complexity and doing due diligence, SpotOn helps operators focus on what matters most—running their businesses—without the burden of excessive tech choices.
Prioritizing Value Over Ego in Building Tech Solutions
When it comes to technology solutions, SpotOn emphasizes a "low ego, high value" approach. Bryan Solar explains the importance of focusing on delivering the best tools—whether they are built in-house or through third-party partnerships—rather than pushing proprietary products for the sake of internal pride. “Ovation’s a great product, right? And they take that super seriously," Solar points out, showcasing how partnerships with quality third-party providers benefit operators. This mindset of prioritizing value ensures that restaurants get the most effective tools for their needs, ultimately building longer-lasting relationships with customers by focusing on the best solutions, not just the ones they own.
Episode Links
ABOUT BRYAN SOLAR —
Bryan is passionate about helping Restaurant owners and their staff live a better life through technology. As the Chief Product Officer at SpotOn, he leads a team on a mission to create innovative, user-friendly products that empower restaurants to grow their business, streamline their operations, and uplevel their customer experiences.
Before joining SpotOn, he was the GM and Head of Restaurants at Square, where he oversaw the Product, Engineering, Data Science, Marketing, and Creative teams. During his tenure, the Restaurants division generated triple-digit revenue growth and was featured on the cover of the company's 10-Q report.
Before Square, he also held various product leadership roles at Google and served as CEO of multiple startups he helped launch.
ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—
Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.
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