In an effort to improve efficiency, Sodexo recently implemented a new ticket ordering system in the Waves Cafe. As Sodexo perfects the system, it will eventually expand to the School of Law Cafe and Drescher Cafe.
Until recently, guests verbally told the chef their order and stood by until the order was completed. Now, guests fill out a ticket, place it in a basket and wait until their name is called.
“Our ultimate goal is to serve you, our guests, faster and more accurately. As we received feedback and analyzed the grill and flat top operations, we determined as an organization to implement this ticket ordering system to improve our efficiency. As part of our study we observed our guests constantly repeating their orders to our line chefs, which reduced our ability to handle multiple requests and serve our guests in a timely manner,” said Sarah Dhillon, marketing manager of Sodexo Dining Services.
Students seem to be resistant to the changes. “The cafeteria changes are really time consuming. Even though I get here first, a couple students might get their order before me. I think it’s a little disorganized,” said freshman Brandon Page.
Sodexo understands that changes take getting used to, but they are confident that in time, both guests and staff will become more at ease and familiar with the process. And as guests and staff become more comfortable, they expect the system will increase accuracy, speed of service and overall satisfaction.
The ticket ordering system has expanded from the flat top to the grill.
As opposed to guests waiting for their names to be called, buzzers have been integrated into the system so that guests are paged when their order is ready.
In addition, a variety of meal choices will be added including artisan pizzas, featuring homemade pizza dough and sauce and gourmet burgers and buns.
Further changes may be coming in the future, as the cafeteria receives technological upgrades. At other locations across the country, Sodexo utilizes touch screen ordering technology called Food on Demand. “We would love to bring this type of technology to Pepperdine and may do so in the future when Waves Cafe is remodeled,” Dhillon said.
Sodexo is open to feedback, both positive and negative. After reviewing guests’ feedback, they added additional options to the ordering ticket.
“We are continuously evaluating our services internally and through the feedback of others, and trying to make changes whenever possible or necessary to meet the needs of our guests,” Dhillon said.
