Two main suggestions emerged at the conference last week: first, the system needs to contain a multi-language function to support customers of different language backgrounds. Second, it was suggested that the system should have a ‘split the bill’ option so as to enable more than one customer to contribute to the settling if they desire. This latter option would function in similar way as the current system at the restaurant. In addition, a third suggested recommended development of water proof system and also resistant to food spillage in order to remove the potential risk of malfunction if there is an accident.
The multi-language option, in particular, was widely preferred as it would allow users to easily navigate the system in a language that they are most comfortable in, not necessarily English. This would make the system more appealing to international customers whom English is not their first language in addition to making it more user-friendly. As a technology toolkit, the multi-lingual option will facilitate online ordering where restaurant patrons and new customers will be able to select a language of their preference among the major languages listed, proceed to browse the menu and then place their order. The new multi-language option could contain such categories as ‘user interface language’, ‘customer bill language’, and ‘kitchen bill language.’ Customers will be able to use the multi-lingual function both via the internet with their smartphones.
The mechanism of the split the bill function is relatively simple: customers request to split the screen, the café attendant breaks up the check according to the direction of the customers. Closing out individual bills will also be efficient as a clear marked “PAID” stamp will be affixed on the each check. Upon closing out all bills, the café attendant prints closing receipts in a process that should be faster and more efficient compared to traditional bill settlement process. The split the bill option could have additional functions such as ‘pay the whole table’, ‘pay specific items’, pay an arbitrary amount’, ‘pay a portion of the bill’, or ‘pay for dinners items.’ Such a busy café requires the split the bill option so that to enable customers to pay their bills however they chose with greater ease and efficiency.
Interviews
Two people from a different groups were interviewed relating to the design and usability of the proposed system. The respondents were requested to give their comments on their experiences of using the system. They were also asked about whether they found the system easy to understand and get used to. The results of the first interview were that the user found the system difficult to use especially the task of ordering using the tablet. There was also criticism of the layout of the items as well as the lack of a secure method of payment such as a credit card. The second user had some trouble at the beginning with the system but quickly became accustomed to it and found that they had a good experience using the system. He found the user interface to be simple to use and the use of pictures to represent food items made it possible to have an idea of what was being ordered. However there was a recommendation that a system of review of the ordering process should be implemented so as to allow the user to share their experiences using the system.
