As the hospitality industry enters a challenging financial period, it’s crucial that operators use technology to remain efficient and scalable.
Finding the right tech partner, however, is equally as important as the technology itself, especially when it comes to your operation’s sustainable growth and long-term success.
Let’s look at what a good tech partner looks like and how they can help continuously drive growth for your hospitality operation.
What’s the difference between a tech provider and a tech partner?
Tech providers offer ‘out of the box’ solutions and generally have a more transactional approach to business.
To put it bluntly, tech providers deliver your product and then raise an invoice.
While this approach does have its place on the market, it isn’t the most strategic way to grow sustainably in the hospitality industry.
Tech partners, on the other hand, go above and beyond delivering technology. They offer a collaborative and consultative approach, build and manage multiple solutions customised to your operation and innovate alongside your business as it grows.
The key difference between tech providers and tech partners is the customisation of the technology in line with your operation, and the collaborative nature of the relationship.
What makes a good tech partner?
Finding a tech partner is the first step, but finding a good tech partner is where the magic happens.
So, what attributes should you look out for?
Scalability and flexibility
A good tech partner should be able to handle increased operational complexity as your business grows over time, whether you’re opening new sites or diversifying your offering.
In these uncertain financial times, it’s essential to prioritise careful, strategic growth over rapid expansion, so although scalability is an important attribute of a good tech partner, be cautious of those urging you to grow quicker than what feels comfortable.
Collaboration and transparency
Your tech partner should both respect your independence as an operator and work alongside you to solve problems.
Since your tech partner will build and manage technology uniquely customised to fit your operation, they must value your opinion, be transparent about tech limitations and communicate effectively.
Knowledge and innovation
What use is a tech partner who doesn’t know their stuff? You should feel confident that your tech partner is an authority in the hospitality space.
Good tech partners have proven technical expertise, are obsessed with the customer experience, keep their finger on the pulse of industry trends and continuously innovate for the future.
Commitment
Ultimately, a tech partner is exactly what it says on the tin: a partnership.
They should be totally invested in your long-term success and proactively pushing you toward your goals.
Tech providers typically play a numbers game; tech partners play the long game.
Final thoughts
In times of intense change, implementing the right tech and collaborating with the right tech partner is key to the long-term success of your operation.
Book a demo to discover how a partnership with Vita Mojo can streamline your operation and boost your profitability.