Knowing the couple often enjoys a bottle of Merlot, the waiter inquires whether they would care to sample a new label. He then offers menu suggestions based on their selections from previous visits. Such VIP treatment is no longer reserved for a privileged upper class or the restaurant's regulars. With today's reservations management software, operators can do more than find out who's coming and going. They also can collect important data on diners and consequently create better customer relationships.
People deal with computers and machines all day.
Anything you can do to be more personal is what's really going to create a difference in atmosphere. From frequency of visits to size of parties, operators are getting the goods on their customers. Depending on the software, available data ranges from basic to Big Brother-esque. Some operators are keeping it simple, recording information such as frequency of reservations, cancellations and no-shows. Offering a favorite type of wine to preferred customers is just one example of how reservations software can bolster sales, but this approach works only when they are already on site.