7 Keys for Evaluating Catering Software and Platforms

The demand for integrated systems is growing across both digital and analog industries, and the catering sector is no exception. Catering platforms and software play a crucial role in streamlining operations, driving growth, exceeding client expectations, and boosting profitability. In 2022, the U.S. catering market was valued at $60.4 billion. It’s expected to grow at an annual rate of 7.7% from 2023 to 2030 (Grand View Research).  

For food service companies, selecting the right catering software is a strategic decision. Imagine a restaurant or catering business struggling with pen-and-paper bookings, missed orders, and disorganized invoices. By adopting the right catering software, these tasks become automated, reducing errors and allowing your staff to focus on delivering exceptional client support.  

If your catering company wants to remain ahead of industry trends, this article provides practical guidance on investing in the right catering software. It highlights key factors such as user-friendliness, essential features, integration capabilities, and client support to help you make an informed, long-term decision.

Understanding Catering Software and Platforms 

Catering software is a specialized digital solution designed to meet the specific needs of catering companies, including event planning, menu design, order tracking, invoicing, delivery management, client relationship management (CRM), and inventory control.  

In contrast, general catering software prioritizes basic tasks such as accounting or project management, which may not be tailored to the unique challenges faced by businesses. From personalized menu options to real-time updates, the right catering platform helps your business exceed client expectations in every interaction. 

3 Types of Software Solutions  

Many of the aforementioned types of software solutions empower your catering business to improve operational efficiency. Let’s take a deeper look at three specific examples: 

1. Event Management

An event management tool helps caterers manage catering events by tracking all event details from start to finish. For example, a wedding caterer can use the software to stay organized, create guest lists, coordinate schedules, improve vendor relationships, and customize menu plans and beverage management. It can be used as a total party planner that can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.  

2. Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

A CRM system is crucial for maintaining customer loyalty and improving service by offering personalized experiences. Interactions with both current and potential new clients are key.  

3. Inventory Control

Keeping track of ingredients and supplies is essential for efficient operations. Inventory control software equips you to monitor stock levels, manage purchase orders, and prevent overstocking or shortages.  

Importance of Modern Software Solutions in the Catering Business 

Delivering exceptional catering services is at the heart of the hospitality sector, and modern catering software programs are essential for achieving this in corporate catering. These solutions streamline operations, optimize client assistance, save time, and boost overall efficiency.  

Strategic software investments are  good decisions even for small catering companies. Catering software for small business provides an affordable and scalable solution, enabling owners to streamline bookings, manage inventory, and deliver exceptional service without overstretching their resources. 

By automating booking, online ordering, and online payment processing, you reduce your likelihood of errors and speed up processes. With real-time data at your fingertips, your catering team can make better decisions and offer richer, individualized experiences. 

Modern solutions also enable you to create unlimited BEO (Banquet Event Order) templates, which generate kitchen production reports by order and provide access to the entire day’s schedule, streamlining your event management process.  

7 Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Catering Software 

As the catering industry continues to evolve, choosing the right catering platform makes a difference in your ability to stay competitive and efficient.  

Here are seven key factors to keep in mind in the digital age:  

1. User-Friendliness

The software, including the features of catering apps, should have an intuitive interface that’s easy for staff and clients to navigate. A simple design ensures tasks like menu planning, order tracking, and payment processing are handled without extensive training, increasing productivity from day one. 

2. Feature Set

Effective catering computer software should include key features such as order management, real-time updates, and client data handling. These features support smooth catering operations, manage upcoming events, and build stronger customer relationships and custom proposals.  

3. System Integration

Effective catering business software should integrate seamlessly with tools you already use, like point-of-sale (POS) systems and CRM platforms. Seamless integration centralizes data and streamlines workflows, allowing you to manage procedures more efficiently. 

4. Customer Support

Reliable customer support is a must. Ensure the provider offers timely, accessible assistance for troubleshooting and resolving any technical issues that may arise, helping to minimize downtime and disruptions. 

5. Scalability

Your catering company will grow, and so should your software. Choose a solution that  accommodates more complex needs as you expand. The right catering platform will be adaptable whether you manage events or scale up to larger shows or multi-location operations. 

6. Marketing and Loyalty Tools

A great catering platform also supports client retention and business growth. Look for software that enables you to launch personalized rewards programs, run targeted campaigns, and offer promotions to build lasting customer loyalty. 

7. Data Analytics and Reporting

Strong data analytics and reporting features are essential for catering management business. The software should offer tools that track performance, measure customer satisfaction, and provide insights into sales and procedures.

3 Insights When Evaluating Software Providers 

After evaluating catering software based on the above benchmarks,  assess which provider fits best based on these three key aspects: 

1. Market Reputation

As with any industry, the reputation of your software provider matters. Take the time to review testimonials and feedback from other catering businesses that have used the platform. A strong reputation and proven success stories from similar organizations can provide valuable insights into the software’s reliability and assistant quality.  

2. Cost Vs. Value

Consider the return on investment (ROI) the software can provide. How does it help improve efficiency, reduce costs, or improve customer service? Analyze the long-term value by assessing the features, scalability, and how the software can help your company grow and increase sales.  

3. Trial Periods and Demos

Taking advantage of trial periods and demos is a vital step, whether you’re a new business owner or an experienced operator looking to expand. These opportunities allow you to familiarize yourself with the software, test its features in real-world scenarios, and see how it fits with your daily operations, such as online ordering, events, and sales, before making a full commitment. 

2 Core Implementation Steps

Implementing catering software is a strategic move for your business, but its success hinges on proper setup, training, and troubleshooting. Ensuring your staff is fully equipped to use the new tools is essential for a smooth transition.  

To guarantee successful implementation, keep the following two strategies in mind: 

1. Training and Onboarding 

Create a comprehensive training plan that includes hands-on sessions, clear instructions, and ongoing support. This empowers your team to efficiently use the new tools, minimize errors, and boost productivity from the start. 

2. Setting Up for Success 

Customize the catering platform to match your processes, such as menu management, customer tracking, and event scheduling. By aligning the software with your unique workflows, you’ll ensure smoother operations and maximize its potential in the long term. 

Leveraging Catering Service Software for Business Growth 

Online catering software can be a powerful resource for achieving the best results for your organization.  

Here are two key areas to focus on:  

1. Elevating Customer Experience 

This enables you to tailor services and menus to meet individual needs, making your clients feel valued and increasing the likelihood of repeat business. Catering software helps you personalize interactions by tracking customer preferences, past orders, and special requests.  

2. Optimizing Operations 

By using data and analytics, you can make smarter decisions that improve efficiency. For instance, you can identify popular dishes, adjust your menu items accordingly, and better manage staff schedules during peak times. The software also helps with inventory management, reducing waste and ensuring smooth daily activities, ultimately boosting profitability. 

3 Case Studies and Success Stories 

Catering companies across various scales and niches have successfully implemented software solutions to improve their operations and customer experiences. Here are three examples: 

1. Domino’s Pizza: Streamlining Operations with Real-Time Data

Domino’s integrated advanced data analytics into their operations, enabling real-time insights across their 15,000 stores. This system allowed them to monitor customer preferences and optimize delivery routes, significantly improving efficiency and customer satisfaction. 

2. Sweetgreen: Optimizing Supply Chain with Custom Software

Sweetgreen developed a custom software solution that integrated real-time inventory tracking with their point-of-sale and kitchen management systems. This approach ensured accurate stock levels and reduced waste, aligning with their commitment to sustainability. 

3. Chipotle Mexican Grill: Boosting Sales Through Digital Innovation

Chipotle's investment in digital ordering platforms significantly increased its sales. In Q1 2021, digital sales accounted for 50% of the company's revenue, contributing to a 17.2% rise in same-store sales. 

Getting Started with Catering Management Software 

Now, you can feel more confident when evaluating catering software, emphasizing factors that not only meet your current needs but also support future growth. Key elements such as user-friendliness, essential features, integration capabilities, scalability, and client management will ensure that your software evolves alongside your company over time.  

Every catering company is unique, so it’s important to explore detailed resources and  assess your specific needs. This will help you choose the best solution to address challenges, drive organizational improvement, and save time.  

Ready to take the first step toward transforming your company? Book a demo with our team now. Our personalized consultation will show you how our catering solutions can help optimize your processes and strengthen your strategies without needing other catering software.  

Need tips on how to amplify your online ordering? Download our free Online Ordering Guide.