Can Technology Replace Servers?

You might have heard about a new trend in the food industry – tabletop tablets and computers being used in place of traditional wait staff. But can machines really replace servers?

Some of the major chains are saying yes. Chili’s, Panera, Applebee’s, Red Robin, and several others are testing tabletop ordering devices as a means of reducing labor cost. Benefits include allowing customers more direct control over the ordering process, minimizing labor expenditure, and giving diners a strong sense of security when paying with credit cards (most tabletop ordering devices allow diners to swipe their own cards at the table.) There is a human side to the equation that critics are saying will prevent this technology from replacing servers completely, however. Solo diners, one of the largest dining populations, often eat out in search of company. They like to converse with wait staff as a means of easing the loneliness of eating alone.

Being understaffed can kill your service, but being…