After months of hearing about the importance of social distancing, consumers are still squeamish about close interactions with staff and fellow guests. How is technology helping restaurants function while addressing those concerns? Learn how it can be a facilitator in this look at products and deployment strategies that promote consumer confidence and feelings of safety while also easing operations.

The success of Off-Premise is one of very few bright spots in the restaurant industry during the year of coronavirus. To quote Restaurant Business Editor-in-Chief Jonathan Maze, “The easier restaurants have made it for customers to order takeout, the better they’ve performed during the pandemic.” Even hard-hit casual dining chains have fared better when they’ve embraced take-out and delivery. One of the common denominators for success?  Smart technology use, which has helped manage demand, streamline processes, ensure accuracy and contactless transactions, innovate in record time with curbside pick-up and lockers, geofencing, alcohol management, all while guaranteeing customer safety and satisfaction. 

How people have used creativity to design new solutions to new and old problems. Adele’s battles with ticket scalpers, the invention of the three-point shot, the history of modern medicine, and some inspiring creations through Kickstarter, among others, show humanity at its most creative. This talk shows how creative thinking, attention to detail, and bold actions can lead to new ways of approaching old problems.