Brigade POS – Is It Great for Your Restaurant
Hi there,
I’m Jeff, a restaurant consultant based in sunny Florida. If you’re wondering, “Is Brigade POS great for your restaurant?” You’re in the right place.
As someone who has spent years advising restaurant owners on improving their operations and profitability, I know the importance of choosing the right tools to facilitate success.
And one of those key tools is undoubtedly your Point of Sale (POS) system.
Understanding the Importance of a Good POS System for Restaurants
The POS system is often called the heart of a restaurant’s operation. It’s not just about processing transactions; a sound POS system should streamline your operations, help manage inventory, provide insightful sales data, and enhance the customer experience.
It plays a pivotal role in how efficiently your restaurant runs and how effectively you can cater to your customers’ needs.
Many clients have asked whether Brigade POS fits their establishments well.
As a restaurant consultant, I don’t just recommend products or services because of their popularity or innovative features. I believe in thorough evaluation based on individual business needs and industry standards.
In this blog post, I aim to take a deep dive into Brigade POS, looking at its features, benefits, usability, and pricing to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your restaurant. Remember, every restaurant is unique.
What works for a fast-food joint may not work for a fine dining establishment. So, let’s dive in and explore what Brigade POS offers.
In the following sections, I’ll share my personal experiences and views on Brigade POS and feedback from my clients who use this system. Hopefully, by the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of Brigade POS and its potential for your restaurant. Stay tuned.
What is Brigade POS: An Overview for Restaurants
Brigade POS is a web-based full-service point of sale (POS) solution designed for food outlets, restaurants, and small hotels. It’s designed to optimize your floor and create good communication between your servers, bartenders, and kitchen staff.
It also offers interactive tools for building customizable digital menu cards, tracking sales and inventory, managing staff and promotions, splitting checks, applying discounts, and generating reports and analytics.
Here is an overview of Brigade POS for restaurants:
- Reservation management: Brigade POS allows users to manage table reservations from a single portal. Users can view the availability of tables, assign tables to customers, and track the status of reservations. Users can also integrate Brigade POS with online reservation platforms such as OpenTable or Resy to accept online bookings.
- Staff management: Brigade POS enables users to manage their staff members, roles, permissions, shifts, tips, etc. Users can create different roles and permissions for their staff, such as manager, cashier, server, etc. Users can also assign shifts, clock in and out, track tips, etc. Users can also access reports and analytics on staff performance and productivity.
- Service management: Brigade POS helps users provide fast and accurate customer service. Users can use the menu management feature to create and edit their menus by categories that servers can quickly access while taking orders. Users can also use the service management feature to manage gift cards, orders, separate checks, split checks, etc. Users can also use the feedback and loyalty system to collect customer data, send personalized offers, reward loyal customers, etc.
- Payment management: Brigade POS supports multiple payment methods, including cash, credit cards, gift cards, mobile wallets, etc. Users can process payments securely and efficiently using the payment management feature. Users can also send digital receipts to customers via email or text message.
- Reporting and analytics: Brigade POS provides real-time reports and analytics that help users monitor their sales, costs, inventory, customer feedback, etc. Users can access various reports and dashboards on their devices or computers. Users can also export or print reports for further analysis or sharing.
- Integration and support: Brigade POS integrates with various third-party services such as online ordering, delivery, loyalty programs, accounting, inventory, etc. Users can connect Brigade POS with their preferred services to streamline their operations and data flow. Brigade POS offers 24/7 support and a dedicated account manager to assist users with issues or questions.
Brigade POS is a robust and reliable POS system that can help restaurants improve their efficiency, profitability, and customer satisfaction. You can request a free demo or a 14-day trial to see how Brigade POS works for your restaurant. You can also read reviews below from other users to see what they think about Brigade POS.
Brigade POS Features: An In-depth Look
Understanding a POS system’s features is essential in determining if it fits your restaurant correctly. So, let’s dissect the Brigade POS feature set and examine how it can optimize your restaurant operations.
Some of the features are:
1. Table Management
This is an essential aspect of any restaurant operation. With Brigade POS, you can easily create interactive floor plans, assign tables to servers, track table status in real-time, and transfer or merge tables. This leads to efficient management of your dining room, ensuring the best service for your customers.
2. Gift Card Management
Gift cards can be a fantastic revenue driver for restaurants. Brigade POS allows you to seamlessly sell and redeem gift cards, track balances, and generate reports on gift card sales. This feature helps keep your loyal customers engaged and encourages new customers to become regulars.
3. Separate Checks
Every restaurant operator knows the pain of splitting checks. Brigade POS makes it a breeze. You can divide bills by seat, item, or amount and accept multiple payment methods on each check, ensuring a smooth payment process for groups of customers.
4. Split Checks
Beyond separating checks, Brigade POS allows you to divide a single bill into equal parts or by percentage and even print separate receipts for each split. This simplifies the payment process for your customers and staff alike.
Managing tips can often be complicated. With Brigade POS, you can calculate tips automatically, adjust tips after closing a check, and track tips by server or shift. This streamlines the tipping process for your staff and ensures transparency in tip distribution.
6. Loyalty Program
A well-executed loyalty program can drive repeat business. Brigade POS allows you to create and manage loyalty programs, reward customers with points or discounts, and track customer data and preferences.
7. Order Management
Brigade POS enhances ordering by allowing staff to take orders from iPads or tablets, send orders directly to kitchen printers or displays, modify orders with modifiers or notes, and even print or email receipts.
8. Point of Sale (POS)
Brigade POS’s core function allows processing payments with cash, credit cards, or mobile wallets. It can integrate with third-party payment processors, apply discounts or coupons, and issue refunds or voids.
9. Analytics
On top of these features, Brigade POS provides access to powerful analytics to monitor your business performance, track your inventory levels, manage your employees and schedules, and customize your menu items and prices.
Brigade POS also offers a native app for iPad, allowing you to use the system offline or online, which adds to its convenience. Plus, they provide 24/7 support, a dedicated account manager, and even a 30-day money-back guarantee.
So, as you can see, Brigade POS is a comprehensive solution for managing your restaurant. From front-of-house operations to back-of-house reporting and everything in between, Brigade POS has got it all covered. But what about the people who use this system? Let’s look at some real-world user experiences with Brigade POS.
Key Benefits of Using Brigade POS for Your Restaurant
Having implemented Brigade POS in several restaurants in Florida, I’ve observed firsthand the significant benefits this system can bring to a restaurant operation. Here are some of the key advantages you may enjoy if you decide Brigade POS is the right fit for your restaurant:
Improved Operational Efficiency: Brigade POS features are designed to simplify complex restaurant operations. For instance, the order management feature allows for quicker order processing, saving time and minimizing errors. Similarly, with built-in staff scheduling, you can avoid common scheduling conflicts and ensure your restaurant is always adequately staffed.
Increased Profitability: Brigade POS helps you make more informed decisions by streamlining operations and providing real-time sales data. You can identify your best-selling items, optimize your menu, and manage your inventory more effectively. This may eventually result in cost savings and enhanced profitability.
Enhanced Customer Experience: By reducing wait times, improving order accuracy, and offering tableside ordering and payment, Brigade POS enhances the dining experience for your customers. Plus, with its integrated CRM capabilities, you can better understand and cater to your customer’s preferences.
Data-Driven Decisions: One of the most vital points of Brigade POS is its robust reporting and analytics capabilities. You can track and analyze sales trends, employee performance, and customer behavior. This data can then guide you in making strategic decisions for your restaurant.
Flexibility and Scalability: Brigade POS can scale to meet your needs, whether you’re a small bistro or a large restaurant chain. The system is designed to grow with your business and is flexible enough to accommodate changes in your operations.
How Brigade POS Enhances User Experience in Your Restaurant
From firsthand experience, the usability of a POS system can make a big difference in your operations. It’s why I appreciate Brigade POS so much – its user-friendly interface significantly improves the restaurant experience. Here’s how:
1. Easy-to-Navigate Interface
One of the first things you’ll notice about Brigade POS is its intuitive design. The interface is easy to navigate, making it more straightforward for your staff to learn and adapt. The less time you spend training, the more time you can devote to what truly matters – your customers.
2. Cloud-Based Connectivity
Managing your restaurant on the go is crucial in today’s fast-paced world. Brigade POS, a cloud-based system, allows you to stay connected to your restaurant’s operations wherever you are, as long as you have an internet connection. Brigade POS keeps you in the loop whether at home, traveling, or overseeing another restaurant location.
3. Swift and Accurate Ordering
Mistakes in orders are not just inconvenient; they can affect your restaurant’s reputation. Brigade POS streamlines the ordering process, reducing errors and reducing wait times. This leads to more satisfied customers and smoother operations.
4. Personalized and Engaging Service
Knowing your customers’ preferences can elevate their dining experience. With Brigade POS, you can easily keep track of details like dietary restrictions, favorite dishes, and special requests. This allows your staff to provide a more personalized and engaging service that will keep customers returning.
5. Versatile Payment Process
In this day and age, offering multiple payment options is vital. Brigade POS supports a range of payment methods, providing a convenient and secure process for your customers. The system can quickly issue digital receipts, adding another convenience layer.
6. Robust Feedback and Loyalty System
Lastly, Brigade POS comes equipped with a feedback and loyalty system. This feature encourages customers to leave reviews, rate their experience, refer friends, and earn rewards. This improves customer engagement and provides valuable insights to enhance your service further.
So, as we explore whether “Brigade POS is great for your restaurant,” I can say from personal experience that its user-friendly features can undoubtedly boost your operations. But let’s dive deeper into this topic in the next section. Join me as we continue this journey.
A Comprehensive Guide on Setting up Brigade POS in Your Restaurant
Now, you might be asking, “Jeff, I’m convinced. How do I set up Brigade POS in my restaurant?” Well, I’m glad you asked. Here’s a step-by-step guide on integrating Brigade POS into your restaurant operations.
1. Choose Your Brigade POS Plan
The first step is to sign up for an account on the Brigade POS website. There, you’ll see various plans – Starter, Standard, and Premium.
2. Download the Brigade POS App
Next, download the Brigade POS app on your devices, whether iPads, iPhones, Android devices, etc. This app is available for download from the software Store and the Google Play Store. One of the most appealing features of Brigade POS is the option to connect several devices to the same account. One of the beautiful things about Brigade POS is the ability to link multiple devices under the same account.
3. Connect Your Devices and Hardware
Then, you must connect your devices to the internet and your printers, cash drawers, and scanners. This can be done via Wi-Fi, cellular data, Bluetooth, or USB. Brigade POS lists compatible hardware on its website, but you can use it if it meets the requirements.
4. Set Up Your Menu
Once your devices are ready, it’s time to set up your menu in the Brigade POS system. Add and edit menu items, modifiers, prices, taxes, and discounts. You can even customize your menu layout and appearance. This can be done either on the Brigade POS dashboard or directly on the app.
5. Add Your Staff and Assign Roles
Next, add your staff members to the system and assign their roles and permissions. Brigade POS allows you to create different roles for your team members, such as managers, cashiers, and servers. You can also manage shifts, clock in and out times, and track tips.
6. Configure Your Settings and Integrations
Customize your settings and preferences, such as language, currency, time zone, and receipt format. What’s excellent about Brigade POS is its compatibility with various third-party services, allowing you to integrate online ordering, delivery, loyalty programs, accounting, inventory, and more into the system.
7. Train Your Staff
Before going live:
- Run some test orders and payments to ensure everything is working smoothly.
- Use the training mode to familiarize your staff with the system without affecting your actual data.
- Remember, the Brigade POS help center and support team are there to assist you during this process.
8. Start Using Brigade POS
Finally, it’s time to use Brigade POS in your restaurant. Brigade POS is there to streamline your operations, from taking orders and processing payments to managing inventory, monitoring sales, engaging customers, and accessing real-time reports and analytics.
And there you have it! Implementing Brigade POS is a straightforward process, but like with any new system, it may take some time to get used to.
But trust me, the benefits you’ll reap will be worth the effort. Next, let’s look at some real-world experiences with Brigade POS. Join me as we delve into this further.
Brigade POS Pricing: Is It Worth the Investment for Your Restaurant?
When it comes to the cost of implementing a POS system in your restaurant, it’s essential to look beyond the initial price tag and consider the long-term value and return on investment. So, how does Brigade POS measure up in terms of cost?
Brigade POS uses a subscription-based pricing model, which means you pay a monthly fee to use the service.
The cost varies depending on the number of terminals you need and the required features. It’s best to contact Brigade directly for an accurate quote tailored to your specific needs. Brigade POS pricing is as follows:
Single terminal: $99 per month
Unlimited terminals: $179 per month
However, you may also need to consider other costs, such as hardware, credit card processing, integrations, etc.
Whether Brigade POS is worth the investment for your restaurant depends on your business needs, budget, and expectations.
My Experience Working with Various Restaurants That Use Brigade Pos
Brigade POS offers many benefits, but here’s what I can tell you from my experience working with various restaurants that use Brigade POS:
Affordability: Brigade POS offers competitive pricing compared to other restaurant POS systems. The subscription-based pricing model makes it a viable option even for smaller establishments with tighter budgets.
Value for Money: When considering the cost of Brigade POS, it’s essential to look at its value to your restaurant. Brigade POS offers various features to improve your restaurant’s operations and profitability, from efficient order management and inventory control to robust reporting and analytics.
Cost vs. Benefit: Finally, it’s worth noting that investing in a robust POS system like Brigade can result in significant cost savings over time. By improving operational efficiency, reducing errors, and providing valuable business insights, Brigade POS can help boost your bottom line.
Now, you may wonder, “How does Brigade POS compare to other POS systems in the market?” That’s precisely what we’ll be looking at in the next section.
Comparing Brigade POS with Other POS Systems in the Market
As a restaurant consultant, I’ve worked with various POS systems. To answer the question, “Is Brigade POS great for your restaurant?” it’s necessary to look at how it compares to other options in the market.
Here’s how Brigade POS stacks up against some of the popular POS systems available today:
1. Brigade POS vs. Square for Restaurants
Square for Restaurants is another well-known name in the industry. Like Brigade, it offers various features designed to streamline restaurant operations. While Square has a free basic plan, you may need a paid subscription to access more advanced features.
On the other hand, Brigade POS offers many of these advanced features as part of its standard package. However, Square’s free version may suit small restaurants or cafes on a tight budget.
2. Brigade POS vs. Toast
Toast is a comprehensive restaurant POS system with tableside ordering, CRM, and inventory management features. It’s comparable to Brigade POS in terms of features.
The difference comes in terms of pricing. Toast requires a substantial upfront investment, which can be a barrier for smaller establishments. Its subscription model makes Brigade POS more accessible to restaurants of all sizes.
3. Brigade POS vs. Clover
Clover is another cloud-based POS system that offers a range of features. However, it requires proprietary hardware, which can add to your initial costs.
Brigade POS, in contrast, offers more flexibility with hardware and can work on various devices, including tablets. This could save you some money on setup costs.
Brigade POS Review: Real User Experiences
Let’s delve into the experiences of real users who have adopted Brigade POS in their restaurants. As a consultant, I’ve had the privilege to see firsthand how the transition to Brigade POS has positively impacted businesses. Here are a couple of examples:
Case Study 1: Small Café in Orlando
I worked with a small café in Orlando, struggling with long customer wait times and order inaccuracies. The café owners decided to implement Brigade POS to streamline their operations. The results were impressive.
With Brigade’s intuitive ordering system, the café staff could process orders faster, significantly reducing customer wait times. The integrated inventory management also helped them keep better track of their stock levels, minimizing instances of running out of crucial ingredients. The owners reported a notable improvement in customer satisfaction and increased repeat business.
Case Study 2: Mid-size Restaurant in Miami
In Miami, a mid-size restaurant sought better insights into its business performance. They chose Brigade POS for its robust analytics and reporting capabilities.
After implementing Brigade, the restaurant owners were able to monitor sales trends, track employee performance, and understand their customers’ dining preferences better. These insights helped them make data-driven decisions that improved their menu offerings and service quality, leading to higher revenue and more satisfied customers.
Brigade Pos Review: Verified Users Experiences on Different Platforms
Still want to know what actual users think about Brigade POS, you can read reviews from verified users on different platforms. Here are some examples of Brigade POS reviews from other sources:
- Capterra: This website provides software reviews, ratings, and comparisons. BASED ON TEN REVIEWS, Brigade POS has a Capterra user rating of five out of five stars. Users complimented the system for its dependability, simplicity, customer service, and overall value.
- Some users also mentioned minor drawbacks, such as the inability to open a tab and give the card back at the bar or the lack of features like payouts or split payments.
- Software Advice: This website provides software reviews, ratings, and recommendations. Brigade POS has an overall rating of five out of five stars based on 10 user reviews on Software Advice. Users liked the system’s simplicity, responsiveness, stability, and pricing. Some users also pointed out areas for improvement, such as the integration with third-party services or the customization of the menu layout.
- GetApp: This website provides software reviews, ratings, and comparisons. Brigade POS has an overall rating of 4.8 out of five stars based on five user reviews on GetApp. Users appreciated the system’s user-friendliness, customer support, functionality, and value for money. Some users also suggested some enhancements, such as the addition of more reports or the option to print receipts from any device.
As you can see, most users have positive experiences with Brigade POS and recommend it to others. However, it would help to consider your business needs and preferences when choosing a POS system.
Understanding Brigade POS Performance Through Customer Reviews
User reviews provide another perspective on Brigade POS’s performance. In general, Brigade POS enjoys positive reviews from users across various platforms. Here are some common sentiments:
Ease of Use: Many reviewers praise the system’s user-friendly interface. They appreciate how quick it is to train new staff, given Brigade POS’s intuitive design.
Customer Support: Users frequently mention the excellent customer support provided by Brigade. They value the prompt and friendly support crew, who is always there to help with any concerns or questions.
Value for Money: Reviewers often mention that Brigade POS offers excellent value for the cost. They appreciate the comprehensive features available at a competitive price.
Reliability: Users also appreciate the reliability of Brigade POS. It’s a system they can depend on even during peak restaurant hours.
That being said, no system is perfect. Some users have mentioned they would like more customization options, while others have noted occasional glitches. However, Brigade’s responsive customer service is often highlighted as a strength in addressing these issues.
So, as we continue to explore the question, “Is Brigade POS great for your restaurant?” these real-life experiences and reviews seem to suggest a positive answer.
Brigade POS Customer Service and Support: What to Expect
When choosing a POS system for your restaurant, it’s essential to consider the features and price and the level of customer support offered. After all, you want to be sure you’ll have the assistance you need whenever you need it. So, what can you expect from Brigade POS customer service and support?
Responsive Support: Brigade POS is known for its responsive and reliable customer service. Whether you’re having technical problems or just have a question about how to use the system, Brigade’s support staff is only a phone call or email away.
24/7 Assistance: Brigade understands the restaurant business isn’t just a 9-to-5 operation. That is why they provide 24 hour help. You may relax knowing that assistance is there whenever you need it.
Problem-Solving: Brigade’s support team is committed to helping you solve any issues that arise quickly and efficiently. They are well-trained and experienced, and they understand the challenges unique to the restaurant industry.
Staying Current: A Look at Brigade POS Updates and Training
Just as the restaurant industry evolves, so does Brigade POS. The team at Brigade is continually working on updates to make their system even more user-friendly and feature-rich.
Regular Updates: Brigade POS releases updates to improve functionality and introduce new features. This ensures you always have access to the most current tools to streamline your operations.
Training Resources: Along with these updates, Brigade POS provides a wealth of training resources. This includes how-to guides, video tutorials, and webinars to help you and your staff make the most of the system.
Feedback-Driven Improvements: What I particularly appreciate about Brigade POS is its openness to user feedback. They listen to the needs of their customers and often implement updates based on this feedback. This commitment to continuous improvement is one of the reasons Brigade POS has become a popular choice among restaurants.
Brigade POS’s support, updates, and training are all part of their commitment to helping you succeed.
So, as we draw closer to answering the question, “Is Brigade POS great for your restaurant?” the level of service they provide should undoubtedly be a factor in your decision.
Conclusion: Is Brigade POS the Right Choice for Your Restaurant?
As we reach the end of this journey, it’s time to address the question head-on: “Is Brigade POS great for your restaurant?” As a restaurant consultant who has worked with various establishments, from small cafes to large dining venues, Brigade POS has much to offer for restaurants of all sizes and types.
Inclusive Features: With its comprehensive features, from order management and inventory control to customer relationship management and robust analytics, Brigade POS provides the tools to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and drive revenue.
Ease of Use: Brigade POS is designed with user-friendliness in mind. It’s easy to set up, and its intuitive interface allows quick staff training.
Excellent Support and Continuous Updates: The level of customer support Brigade offers is commendable. With 24/7 assistance, regular software updates, and training resources, Brigade POS ensures you always have the help you need to run your business smoothly.
Competitive Pricing: With its subscription-based model, Brigade POS provides excellent value for money, making it a viable choice for budget-conscious small restaurants and larger establishments seeking a comprehensive solution.
Positive User Reviews: The positive experiences and reviews of real-life users further testify to the reliability and effectiveness of Brigade POS.
So, is Brigade POS great for your restaurant? Based on my experience and the evidence presented in this article, it’s worth considering.
However, every restaurant is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. As such, I encourage you to use this information as a guide, research, consider your specific needs, and even take Brigade POS for a test drive. This article has offered useful information to assist you in making an educated choice.
In the ever-evolving restaurant industry, it’s essential to have a reliable and efficient POS system like Brigade POS to stay competitive and offer your customers the best dining experience possible. Whatever you decide, I wish you the best in your restaurant journey. Cheers.
Jeff Smith is a Restaurant Consultant with over 20 years of hospitality experience ranging from server to owner and general manager. He focuses on Restaurant POS technology as well as restaurant marketing. Check out our world-famous restaurant resources page for a comprehensive offering of hand-picked resources and tools to help your business. You can also check out some of our other restaurant business articles.