Deep Dive Discussion on Ultra-Trac RFID Table Tracking

What is table tracking all about? Listen to our deep dive podcast on the Ultra-Trac RFID table tracking system and find out why restaurant operators choose this technology to enhance operational efficiency and provide great customer service.

Find out answers to the most frequently asked questions:

1. What is the Ultra Trac RFID Restaurant Table Location System and how does it work?

The Ultra Trac RFID Restaurant Table Location System is designed for restaurants with order-at-the-counter or bar service. When a customer places an order, they are given a Customer Tracking Pager. Upon selecting a table and placing the pager on it, the system automatically identifies the table’s location via RFID technology. This information is displayed on a screen, linking the food order with the customer’s table. If the customer moves tables, the system updates the location in real-time.

2. What are the main benefits of using this system?

The Ultra Trac system offers several benefits: it eliminates the time wasted searching for customers who have moved tables, ensures faster food delivery, increases table turnover during busy periods, improves customer satisfaction by providing quicker service, reduces food waste and customer refunds, and offers a live table plan that displays seating and orders. It also streamlines restaurant operations by displaying the table number for each order, allowing for efficient food delivery.

3. How does the system handle take away orders?

For takeaway orders, the Ultra Trac system allows staff to alert customers via their pager when their order is ready. Staff simply tap the order on the screen, triggering the pager to notify the customer, who can then collect their food.

4. What types of display devices are compatible with the Ultra Trac system?

The Ultra Trac system is versatile in terms of display options. It can operate on computer screens, Android tablets and phones, and any screen with an HDMI input. This flexibility allows restaurants to utilise existing equipment and easily integrate the system into their operations.

5. Is the Ultra Trac system difficult to install?

No, the Ultra Trac system is designed for ease of installation and is completely wireless in operation. This minimises disruption and makes the set-up process straightforward for restaurants.

6. What type of restaurants would benefit most from this system?

The Ultra Trac system is ideally suited for quick service restaurants, fast-casual restaurants, order-at-the-counter service venues, bar restaurants, and garden centre restaurants. It works well anywhere with a need to efficiently locate customers who have ordered and found their own seating.

7. What happens if a customer moves tables after placing their pager?

The system is designed for live tracking. If a customer moves to a different table, the RFID technology will instantly update the system with the new table number, ensuring staff always know where the order should be delivered, eliminating the need to search for the correct table.

8. How does the system contribute to efficient restaurant operations during busy times?

During busy periods, the Ultra Trac system allows staff to deliver food faster and turn tables more quickly. By instantly matching food orders with the correct table and displaying this information on a screen, it allows servers to deliver food quickly and efficiently without any confusion, which boosts customer satisfaction. The system is designed to maximise efficiency during busy periods.

Enhancing First Aid Response

Enhancing First Aid Response: The Role of Paging Systems for First Aid Responders

In times of crisis, when there is a workplace incident, swift and efficient communication is paramount. First aid staff play a crucial role in providing immediate assistance and support to those in need. However, coordinating their efforts and ensuring they reach the right location in a timely manner can be challenging, especially in large or complex environments. This is where paging systems step in as invaluable tools for optimising first aid response.
The Need for Effective Communication in First Aid Response
When an emergency occurs, every second counts. Effective communication is the lifeline that ensures swift and coordinated response efforts. Traditional methods such as verbal announcements or manual calls may be insufficient in environments with high ambient noise levels, limited visibility, or large buildings. In such situations, paging systems offer a reliable means of transmitting critical information to first aid staff, regardless of the surrounding conditions.

How Paging Systems Facilitate First Aid Response

Instantaneous Alerts
Paging systems allow for the instantaneous dissemination of alerts and messages to designated recipients. Whether it’s a medical emergency school or incident in a large industrial facility, first aid personnel can be promptly notified, reducing response times and potentially saving lives.

Targeted Messaging
With paging systems, messages can be targeted to specific individuals, groups, or zones within a facility. This ensures that only relevant personnel receive the information they need, minimizing confusion and optimizing resource allocation. For example, in an industrial building spread over a large site getting the right message to the right responders is critical, and paging systems can facilitate tailored alerts accordingly.

Reliable Coverage
One of the key advantages of paging systems is their reliable coverage even in areas where cellular or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or unavailable. This resilience makes paging systems well-suited for use in diverse environments, including schools & colleges, factories & offices, and buildings with thick walls or structures that can interfere with wireless connectivity.

Real-World Applications

Industrial Environments
In industrial settings, where workplace accidents or hazardous incidents can occur, paging systems help coordinate first aid response efforts among onsite medical personnel, safety teams, and emergency responders. Integration with alarm systems and sensors enables automatic alerts in the event of fire, chemical spills, or other emergencies, ensuring a swift and coordinated response.

 

Schools & Colleges & Offices
Large-scale locations, such as schools, colleges and offices rely on paging systems to communicate critical information to first aid staff dispersed throughout the facility. In the event of medical emergencies, accidents, or security threats, paging systems enable rapid mobilisation of first responders to the affected areas, minimising disruptions and ensuring the safety of staff.

Conclusion
In the realm of first aid response, effective communication is paramount. Paging systems serve as indispensable tools for facilitating rapid and coordinated response efforts, ensuring that first aid staff are promptly alerted and directed to where their assistance is needed most. Whether in offices, industrial settings, or schools & colleges, the integration of paging systems enhances the efficiency, reliability, and overall effectiveness of first aid response operations, ultimately saving lives and mitigating the impact of emergencies.
First Aid Responder Systems from Pager Call Systems
Pager Call Systems offers a sophisticated range of paging systems for first aid responders, systems can be as simple as a stand alone paging system to alert responders of an incident or more complex systems with desktop PC messaging, First Aid Call Points & networked based calling for large buildings.
See more on First Aid Paging Systems

Waiter Paging, Simple but Effective

Introduction:
One of the most popular products utilised by restaurant operators in the UK are waiter pagers, here is an overview of why.

In the dynamic and fast-paced environment of restaurants, efficiency is a key factor that contributes to customer satisfaction and operational success. One simple innovative tool that has significantly improved staff efficiency in the restaurant industry is the waiter pager system. Waiter pagers are wireless communication devices that enable seamless communication between the kitchen and serving staff, enhancing coordination and overall restaurant performance.

1. Streamlining Communication:
Waiter pagers serve as an effective means of streamlining communication between the kitchen and waitstaff. Traditionally, restaurant staff relied on verbal communication, bells, or even shouting to relay information from the kitchen area to the front of house. This manual process often led to misunderstandings, delays, and errors. Waiter pagers eliminate these challenges by providing a direct and instantaneous communication channel, ensuring that orders are promptly served and wait staff can remain front of house attending to customer orders.

2. Faster Turnaround Time:
One of the primary advantages of using waiter pagers is the significant reduction in turnaround time for customer orders. Chefs can call wait staff to the kitchen the moment a customers order is ready eliminating the need for wait staff to be waiting in the kitchen for orders to be completed. This results in quicker service, which is crucial in a competitive industry where customers increasingly value both speed and quality.

3. Increased Table Turnover:
Improved communication and faster service facilitated by waiter pagers contribute to increased table turnover. As tables are cleared and prepared for the next set of diners more efficiently, restaurants can accommodate more guests throughout busy peak times. This not only enhances revenue but also creates a positive impression of the restaurant as a place that values customers’ time.

4. Enhanced Customer Experience:
Efficient service made possible by waiter pagers directly contributes to an enhanced customer experience. When diners receive their orders promptly and accurately, they are more likely to have a positive perception of the restaurant. Waiter pagers also enable staff to provide better customer service by addressing special requests or dietary restrictions without delay, leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

5. Improved Staff Productivity:
With waiter pagers handling the communication between the front and back of the house, restaurant staff can focus more on customer interactions and other essential tasks. This leads to improved staff productivity, as waiters can spend more time attending to customer needs, upselling, and ensuring a positive dining experience. The reduction in manual communication also minimises the risk of errors, allowing staff to perform their duties with greater confidence.

6. Cost-Efficiency:
Implementing waiter pager systems can be a cost-effective solution for restaurants in the long run. The initial investment in a waiter paging system is often outweighed by the increased efficiency and productivity they bring to the establishment. The positive impact on customer satisfaction and revenue will more than be cover the initial costs of implementing such systems.

Conclusion:
Waiter pagers have emerged as a game-changer in the restaurant industry, providing a reliable and efficient solution to communication challenges between the front and back of the house. By streamlining communication, reducing turnaround time, and enhancing overall staff productivity, waiter pagers contribute significantly to improved restaurant efficiency. As the industry continues to evolve & embrace more technological solutions waiter pagers will likely continue to be an essential solution for establishments seeking to provide exceptional service and stay competitive in a demanding market.

Find out more Waiter Paging System

Caterpillar UK – Streamlining Logistics Operations: Using Pagers to Call Drivers to Loading Bays

Introduction

In the fast-paced world of logistics, every second counts. Efficient coordination of drivers and resources can make the difference between meeting delivery deadlines and incurring costly delays. For many companies, the technology of pagers interfaced with queuing software has emerged as a surprisingly effective solution to streamline operations and enhance productivity. In this case study article, we will explore how Caterpillar UK successfully implemented pager systems to call drivers to loading bays, resulting in significant improvements in efficiency, communication, and overall operational excellence.

The Challenge

Caterpillar UK’s Leicester production site, faced several challenges in their daily operations. One of the most pressing issues was the inefficient communication process used to call drivers to loading bays. The existing system relied heavily on an outdated message board system, which often led to communication breakdowns and wasted time. Drivers struggled to see the message board system, and valuable minutes were lost trying to reach them. The company realised the need for a more reliable and instant communication method to address these issues.

As can be the case with many companies network & data security is a major consideration when evaluating systems and if possible the company wanted to utilise a system that would not need to connect to the company computer network.

The Solution

After extensive research and evaluation of various communication solutions, Caterpillar UK contacted Pager Call Systems.

Pager Call Systems recommended the Driver Page system with screen based queuing software for operators. The decision was based on several key advantages that Driver Page offered over other methods:

  1. Network & Data Security: Pager Call Systems provided an isolated network for connectivity between the Touch Screens, Paging Transmitters & Pagers. This was a customised solution built by the technical team at Pager Call Systems for the Caterpillar project.
  2. Reliability: Pagers are known for their reliability, even in areas with weak mobile network coverage. This ensured that drivers could be reached consistently, reducing the risk of communication breakdowns.
  3. Instantaneous Communication: Pagers provide an immediate alert to the recipient, allowing drivers to respond promptly to loading bay requests.
  4. Clarity in Noisy Environments: Unlike mobile phones or walkie-talkies, pagers provided clear and audible messages even in noisy loading bay & yard environments.
  5. Speed of Deployment: Driver Page could be implemented at site in days rather than months. Utilising an isolated network system designed by Pager Call Systems would eliminate the need to use the company’s network.
  6. Cost-Effective: Driver Page was a cost-effective solution compared to investing in more complex communication systems.

Implementation

Caterpillar UK introduced Pager Call Systems Driver Page for drivers and loading bay personnel in two separate loading bay areas at the Leicester site. The process involved the following steps:

  1. Procurement: After extensive research Caterpillar arranged a demonstration of the Driver Page System at their site and Pager Call Systems conducted range testing on site to ensure full site coverage would be achieved by the specified equipment.
  2. System implementation: Pager Call Systems worked closely with the technical team at Caterpillar UK to ensure trouble free installation and implementation of the system.
  3. Training: Drivers and loading bay personnel were trained on how to use the Driver Page system effectively. This included receiving and acknowledging messages, understanding different codes for various instructions, operating the touch screen queuing system and producing wait time reports.
  4. Integration: The pager system was seamlessly integrated into the company’s existing communication & vehicle flow processes. Staff were given access to dedicated devices, and transport office personnel were equipped with devices to send messages.
  5. Testing: The pager system underwent rigorous testing to ensure it could effectively replace the existing communication methods without disruption.

Results

The implementation of a Driver Page system yielded impressive results for the Caterpillar UK:

  1. Improved Efficiency: Drivers could be called to loading bays instantly, reducing the waiting time and increasing overall productivity.
  2. Enhanced Communication: Pager messages were clear and easily understood, even in noisy environments, resulting in fewer errors and misunderstandings.
  3. Visibility: With the Driver Page System staff can see at a glance the number of vehicles waiting for loading bays, time waiting along with vehicles on bays.
  4. Reduced Delays: The new system significantly reduced the likelihood of delays caused by communication breakdowns.
  5. Cost Savings: The company experienced cost savings as Driver Page was more affordable than alternative communication solutions.

Conclusion

In an industry where efficient communication is paramount, the adoption of the Driver Page system to call drivers to loading bays has proven to be a game-changer for this Caterpillar UK. By embracing this reliable and cost-effective technology, they were able to streamline operations, reduce delays, and improve overall efficiency. This case study highlights the potential of simple technology to address modern logistical challenges, underscoring the importance of innovation in improving business processes.

Find out more Driver Page System

Introducing Connect First Responder – On Site Communication for Critical Alerts

Introducing Connect First Responder: Your Trusted Lifeline in Times of Crisis

In the midst of emergencies, swift communication with first responders is paramount. Connect First Responder is an innovative product designed to provide immediate assistance precisely when you need it, utilising an on-site messaging platform like never before.

Connect First Responder has been designed to provide direct communication to emergency responders providing the flexibility to customise the system to your exact site requirements. Connect First Responder offers configurable touch screen call points, emergency buttons & PC based messaging platform ensuring all staff can communicate effectively with first aid & emergency responders.

Key Features:

  1. Instant Communication: With Connect First Responder, you can dispatch urgent messages instantly to first aid responders in real-time. Whether you’re facing a medical emergency, a safety concern, or any critical situation, our system ensures your distress call reaches first responders immediately.
  2. On-Site Messaging Platform: We’ve developed a dedicated messaging platform tailored exclusively for first aid & emergency responders. This ensures that your emergency message doesn’t get lost in unrelated communications. It streamlines communication, guaranteeing that your call for help takes top priority.
  3. Geo-Tagging: The system automatically includes your precise location when sending alerts. This feature proves invaluable in situations where every moment is vital. First aid responders can rapidly pinpoint your exact position, providing swift assistance.
  4. Customisable Alerts: Customize your alerts within Connect First Responder to match the nature of your emergency. Whether it’s a medical issue, a fire, a security threat, or any other scenario, you can tailor your message to ensure first responders comprehend the urgency and type of assistance required.
  5. User-Friendly Interface: Our user-friendly interface is designed for ease of use, even in high-stress situations. Activating the system is as simple as a single tap, making it accessible for all age groups.
  6. Secure and Reliable: Trust in the secure transmission of your messages to authorised first aid responders. Connect First Responder utilizes state-of-the-art encryption to safeguard your privacy and maintain the confidentiality of your emergency information.
  7. On Call Support: Our dedicated support team is accessible to provide assistance in any way necessary. We are committed to your safety and peace of mind.

Connect First Responder is an essential addition to businesses, schools, and medical facilities. It empowers individuals to take control of their safety and well-being by offering direct access to first aid & emergency responders during critical incidents.

Do not leave your safety to chance. With Connect First Responder, you can be confident that help is only a message away. Safeguard staff & visitors – invest in Connect First Responder today and experience the assurance of knowing that assistance is always within reach.

Find out more Connect First Responder

Ultra Trac RFID Table Tracking

Elevating Dining Dynamics: The Impact of Table Tracking Systems in Modern Restaurants

The restaurant industry is undergoing a technological revolution, and table tracking systems have emerged as a significant innovation that is transforming the dining experience. These systems offer restaurants the ability to optimise operations, elevate customer service, and streamline communication between staff and diners. From efficient order management to personalised service, table tracking systems are reshaping the way restaurants operate and enhancing overall customer satisfaction.

The Rise of Table Tracking Systems:

Table tracking systems represent a new era of guest engagement and operational efficiency. Beyond the basic function of identifying table locations, these systems integrate seamlessly with various restaurant processes to create a dynamic and personalised dining journey:

  1. Efficient Order Management: Table tracking systems allow wait staff to accurately link orders to specific tables, ensuring that the right food reaches the right guests. This eliminates confusion and prevents delays in food delivery.
  2. Optimised Service: Staff can monitor the progress of each table’s order, ensuring timely service and allowing them to intervene if any issues or delays arise.
  3. Enhanced Guest Experience: With real-time updates on the status of their orders, staff can ensure guests are kept informed about their meals, reducing frustration and enhancing overall satisfaction.
  4. Seamless Communication: Table tracking systems facilitate communication between the kitchen, bar, and serving staff, reducing errors and streamlining the flow of operations.
  5. Personalised Service: By accessing data and order history, staff can provide tailored recommendations and ensure that special requests are met.

Scenarios Where Table Tracking Systems Excel:

  1. High-Volume Restaurants: In bustling restaurants with high customer turnover, table tracking systems help manage the influx of orders and ensure a seamless dining experience.
  2. Fast-Casual Establishments: Table tracking systems are a natural fit for fast-casual restaurants with counter ordering with food run to tables, where efficient service and quick order turnaround are essential.
  3. Customisation-Driven Dining: Restaurants that offer extensive customisation options, such as build-your-own meals, benefit from table tracking systems that accurately capture data for order delivery times.
  4. Order at Counter – Run to Table: For restaurant that take food orders at the counter, table tracking systems can be discreetly integrated to enhance service quality without disrupting the ambience, no more searching for which table a diner is seated at.

 

Benefits of Implementing Table Tracking Systems:

  1. Streamlined Operations: Table tracking systems improve workflow by minimising errors and miscommunication between staff members. This leads to faster service and a more efficient dining experience.
  2. Reduced Wait Times: With better order management and communication, table tracking systems contribute to shorter wait times for food and drinks.
  3. Enhanced Guest Satisfaction: The transparency and personalised service offered by table tracking systems enhance guest satisfaction, encouraging repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth.
  4. Data-Driven Insights: The data collected through these systems can offer valuable insights into wait times, peak hours, and ordering patterns, aiding in strategic decision-making.
  5. Staff Empowerment: By providing real-time information, table tracking systems empower staff to address guest concerns promptly and provide proactive solutions.
  6. Staff Efficiency: Providing complete visibility of where guests are seated ensures restaurant operators with the ability to utilise staff to run food to tables in the most efficient manner and operate with correct staffing numbers.
  7. Reporting: Table tracking systems can provide valuable data & management reports which operators can use to make strategic decisions to improve service standards & enhance the guest experience.

Implementing Effective Table Tracking Systems:

For a successful integration of table tracking systems, restaurants should consider the following:

  1. Seamless Integration: Choose systems that seamlessly integrate with the restaurant’s existing point-of-sale (POS) and order management systems.
  2. Staff Training: Train staff on how to use the system effectively and ensure they are provided with system data to improve food service times.
  3. Customisation: Opt for systems that can be tailored to match the restaurant’s branding and operational style.
  4. Maintenance and Updates: Regularly maintain and update the system to ensure it remains reliable and up-to-date.

Conclusion:

Table tracking systems are shaping the modern restaurant landscape by revolutionising how guests and staff interact. By improving order accuracy, enhancing communication, and providing a more personalised experience, these systems contribute to operational excellence and guest satisfaction. As the restaurant industry continues to evolve, table tracking systems stand as a testament to the power of technology in creating seamless, efficient, and delightful dining experiences for guests.

Find out more Table Tracking

Pager-UK System

Pager-UK Truly Waterproof Customer Pagers

Pager Call Systems have launched their IP67 Waterproof Paging System the PUK (Pager-UK) System

No more worries about pagers getting wet in the good old British weather the PUK System has fully waterproof pagers that can stand up to even the most demanding conditions.

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The unique PUK Pager dispense tube ensures batteries are always charged to the optimum level and pagers get equal usage, the longest charged first to dispense system prolongs the life of your system and helps extend battery life.

Read more about the Pager-UK System here PUK Pagers

Pager Call PayPal

Buy Your System in Three Interest-Free Payments

Buy Now Pay Later Interest-Free

Pager Call Systems is now offering systems purchased online via our shop with PayPal Pay in 3.

PayPal Pay in 3 gives you the opportunity of choosing to split your payment into three payments and the best news is its interest free.

How to Buy in 3 Interest-Free

Simply add products to your cart, proceed through to checkout, then at payment options, select “PayPal” instead of entering your credit card information and choose the PayPal option to pay in three payments.

You can see the systems on offer in our online shop.

*Applies to purchases from £30.00 to £2,000.00 only.

Why We Support Circus Starr

Pager Call Systems are proud to announce we are supporting Circus Starr again this year!

Circus Starr are a community interest company dedicated to making a difference to the lives of vulnerable and disadvantaged children in towns across the country through the magical art of circus. The Circus Starr big top is visiting Northampton again this year on Thursday November 10th bringing joy to hundreds of vulnerable and disadvantaged children from the town.

We love supporting our community and this fantastic inclusive and accessible event is such a worthy cause.

To find out more about how you can support the circus with a purpose visit www.circus-starr.org.uk or give them a call on 01260 288690, they are lovely people!

Staff Pagers Just Got Tough

When we looked at redesigning our staff pagers we listened to feedback from our customers. Our customers said they would like a slimmer lightweight pager that looked stylish, they wanted a strong vibration alert that could be easily felt but not audible, great battery life and a robust pager that is waterproof.

Our design team took the feedback on board and completely redesigned a new staff pager. The V3 Staff Pager is IP65 rated to protect against water ingress, the V3 Staff Pager can be used outside in the rain and can withstand the rigours of the hospitality environment where staff may be handling the pager with wet hands and could even from time to time drop a pager in the sink.

The single board design and rubber bump bar not only ensures that the pager will withstand multiple drops but the single board construction also enabled us to build the thinnest staff pager available being only 17 mm thick.

Using the latest brushless ERM (eccentric rotating mass vibration motor) vibration motor ensured the V3 produced a powerful vibe whilst remaining virtually silent.

The V3 Staff Pager is supplied with 12 position smart charging bases ensuring that batteries are always charged to the optimum level and pager batteries can last up to 3 days between charging.

The ergonomically designed V3 sets the standard for what we believe is the the most stylish robust staff pager available.

The new sleek V3 Staff Pager is offered with all of our Server Call & Staff Call systems.

Find out more about Staff Call & Server Call Systems.