Architecting a Point of Sales application for the Edge

 Edge computing is a computing architecture that moves data processing and storage from centralized systems to the edge of the network. In a Point of Sales (POS) system, this can bring several advantages, such as:

Latency reduction: By processing data at the edge, latency is reduced, making transactions faster and more efficient.

Improved reliability: With edge computing, the system can operate even if there is a failure in the central system, making the system more reliable.

Increased security: By processing data at the edge, the risk of data breaches is reduced as the data is not transmitted to a centralized location.

Offline operation: In the event of a network failure, edge computing can allow the POS system to continue operating, reducing downtime and providing a better customer experience.

Scalability: Edge computing makes it easier to scale the system as needed, making it more flexible to meet changing business needs.

When considering edge computing for a POS system, some key factors to consider include:

Network connectivity: The system must be able to connect to the edge devices, such as mobile devices, payment terminals, and sensors.

Code and data deployments: A mechanism is needed to deploy the latest code features and upgrades as well as the core data from the 

Data processing: The system must be able to process large amounts of data in real-time at the edge.

Data storage: The system must be able to store data at the edge, either locally or in the cloud.

Security: The system must be secure, protecting sensitive customer data and ensuring that transactions are protected from cyber-attacks.

Integration with existing systems: The system must be able to integrate with existing systems, such as inventory management and customer relationship management 

Restaurant Trends to focus in Customer Experience

In the competitive world of restaurants, it's important to constantly strive for innovation in order to attract and retain customers. 

One key area to focus on is the customer experience. Here are some ideas for how restaurants can innovate in this area:

Offering personalized recommendations: With the help of technology and AI, restaurants can now track customers' past orders and use that information to offer personalized recommendations for their next visit. This not only enhances the customer experience, but also helps to increase sales by showcasing menu items that the customer is likely to enjoy. Online ordering apps already do this by offering a choice to repeat their past as well as favourite orders. Restaurants can look for moving that capability in-house

Enhance the online ordering experience: With the rise of online food delivery platforms, it's important for restaurants to have a seamless online ordering experience. This can include offering easy-to-use mobile apps, clear menu descriptions and photos, and the ability to customize orders. Customers have frequently complained about online ordering processes where there are too many clicks to get to the final checkout - and this is a major metric tracked among ecommerce marketing teams.

Use technology to streamline the dining experience: There are now a number of technologies available that can help restaurants streamline the dining experience, such as self-order kiosks, mobile payment options, and table-side ordering provided by various vendors. These technologies can help to reduce wait times and improve efficiency, which can enhance the customer experience. However these are most effective when they connect with a single source of data from the restaurant Back of House ideally through APIs that provide the Menu, Pricing, Promotions, Customer, Loyalty and other required data.

Offer unique and memorable experiences: In addition to the food, restaurants can also focus on creating unique and memorable experiences for their customers. This can include things like hosting special events, offering live music, or partnering with local artists to showcase their work. Local produce can be highlighted. Patrons would be interested to visit restaurants that prioritize fresh and locally sourced ingredients as a niche value.

By constantly innovating and looking for ways to enhance the customer experience, restaurants can stand out in a crowded market and build a loyal customer base with returning customers. 

Reimagining Digital Transformation

 The restaurant industry is experiencing an unprecedented transformational change. Business disruptions from the global health crisis prompted the restaurant industry to restructure and diversify its operating model and digital portfolio in response to the shift of market trends and customer preferences.

Elevated expectations for cleanliness, health, and safety are accelerating the adoption of contactless technologies, curbside pickup options, and mobile payments to minimize human interaction. Gartner predicts most organizations will leverage contactless technologies for up to 80% of their ordering and replenishment activities by 2024.

Restaurant businesses must prepare to meet the operational requirements of the new normal and drive supply chain efficiency. Furthermore, restaurants should thrive to maintain brand loyalty by providing a seamless and differentiated omnichannel experience through enhanced digital capabilities.

In this post, we will show you how Capgemini’s Digital Cloud Platform (DCP) for Restaurants empowers the industry to reimagine digital transformation by delivering compelling customer interaction and streamlined operations while reducing costs and improving efficiency.

The full version of this article is published at https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/apn/reimagining-digital-transformation-with-capgemini-digital-cloud-platform-for-restaurants-on-aws/