In the fast-paced world of the restaurant industry, clear and efficient communication is crucial for success. From coordinating shifts to relaying special requests from customers, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s a look at some of the best communication apps for restaurant managers that can help streamline operations and enhance teamwork within restaurant teams. So, what are the best communication apps for restaurant managers? Let’s explore.
Slack
Overview
Slack is a versatile messaging platform that allows teams to communicate in real-time through channels, direct messages, and file sharing.
Features
- Channels: Create dedicated channels for different teams (kitchen, waitstaff, management) or topics (events, specials).
- Integrations: Connect with other tools like Google Drive and Trello.
- Search Functionality: Easily find past conversations and documents.
Why It Works
Slack’s organized structure helps keep conversations focused and reduces the clutter of email chains. Plus, its mobile app ensures that team members can stay connected, even during busy shifts. Chick-fil-A: Uses Slack for internal communications, allowing teams to coordinate quickly and efficiently across locations. https://slack.com/
Overview
WhatsApp is a widely-used messaging app that offers instant messaging, voice, and video calls.
Features
- Group Chats: Quickly set up group chats for different teams or shifts.
- Voice Messages: Send quick voice notes for urgent communications.
- Media Sharing: Share images of daily specials or menus easily.
Why It Works
With its simple interface and ubiquity, WhatsApp is ideal for quick and informal communication among team members. It’s particularly useful for sending updates or changes on the fly. Chipotle: Employees often use WhatsApp for informal communication, quick updates and shout-outs about standout performances, daily specials or team changes. https://www.whatsapp.com/
7shifts
Overview
7shifts is a team management app designed specifically for the restaurant industry, focusing on scheduling and communication.
Features
- Scheduling: Create and manage schedules easily.
- Team Chat: Use built-in messaging for team communication.
- Task Management: Assign tasks and check in on progress.
Why It Works
7shifts combines scheduling with communication, making it easy for team members to stay informed about shifts and responsibilities. Its restaurant-specific focus ensures that it meets the unique needs of the industry. Sweetgreen: This fast-casual salad chain utilizes 7shifts for scheduling and team communication, helping to streamline operations across locations. https://www.7shifts.com/home-2/ https://culinaryexec.com https://www.sweetgreen.com/
Google Workspace
Overview
Google Workspace offers a suite of productivity tools that can be invaluable for restaurant teams.
Features
- Gmail: Professional email communication.
- Google Drive: Share important documents like menus and training materials.
- Google Meet: Video conferencing for team meetings.
Why It Works
With tools like Google Docs and Sheets, teams can collaborate on documents in real-time. It’s perfect for managing schedules, menus, and training materials, all in one place. Starbucks: Uses Google Workspace for collaboration and document sharing among corporate teams and regional managers, enabling efficient communication. https://workspace.google.com/
Toast
Overview
Toast is a restaurant management platform that includes a variety of tools, from POS to team communication.
Features
- Internal Messaging: Communicate with staff directly within the app.
- Performance Tracking: Monitor staff performance and communicate feedback.
- Task Assignments: Delegate tasks directly to team members.
Why It Works
Toast integrates communication with restaurant management, allowing teams to collaborate while also managing orders and customer interactions effectively. Dig Inn: This farm-to-table restaurant chain employs Toast for its POS system and internal communication, helping to manage orders and staff tasks seamlessly. https://pos.toasttab.com/ https://www.diginn.com/
Trello
Overview
Trello is a project management tool that can help organize tasks and projects visually.
Features
- Boards and Cards: Create boards for different teams or projects, with cards for individual tasks.
- Checklists: Use checklists to ensure that tasks are completed.
- Comments and Attachments: Team members can comment on cards and attach relevant files.
Why It Works
Trello’s visual layout makes it easy to track tasks and projects, which is particularly helpful in busy environments where many things happen simultaneously. The Cheesecake Factory: Some locations use Trello for project management and task assignments, helping teams stay organized during busy periods. https://trello.com/
Conclusion
Effective communication is the backbone of a successful restaurant. By choosing the right communication app, restaurant management teams can enhance collaboration, streamline operations, and ultimately improve customer service. Whether you need a simple messaging app or a comprehensive management tool, there’s a solution out there to meet your needs. Explore these options, and find the perfect fit for your team!
