The Real Cost of Third-Party Delivery Apps and How to Take Back Control

Running a restaurant is a balancing act. You’re not just serving great food, you’re managing schedules, watching costs, handling inventory, and keeping customers happy day after day. In the middle of that hustle, it’s easy to make decisions based on instinct. But the smartest restaurants are the ones that use data to guide their choices, and your POS system is the best place to start. Your point-of-sale system isn’t just a tool for taking payments. It’s a daily source of insights into what’s working and what isn’t. With SkyTab, your data is not hidden behind reports you never open or locked away in a confusing interface. It’s right at your fingertips, designed to help you act faster and smarter. Let’s walk through a few ways you can put that data to work and use your POS system as more than just a cash register. See What’s Selling and What’s Slowing You Down It’s easy to assume which items are your best sellers, but assumptions don’t always match the numbers. With SkyTab, you can pull up sales reports and see exactly which menu items are driving revenue and which ones are being ignored. That information can help you make strategic menu decisions. You might decide to promote high-performing items more prominently or cut dishes that tie up the kitchen but rarely get ordered. You’re not guessing. You’re using real numbers from your restaurant. This also helps with pricing. You can identify which dishes people are willing to pay more for and which ones may need adjustment. Small changes in menu layout and pricing, backed by data, can lead to a stronger bottom line without changing your recipes or service. Understand Staff Performance Without Micromanaging Your team is one of your most valuable assets. When you know who is driving sales, turning tables quickly, or consistently upselling high-margin items, you can reward performance and coach where it’s needed. SkyTab’s reporting tools let you see how each team member is doing without hovering. You can track average ticket size, number of guests served, and even tip percentages. That information helps you schedule smarter, run tighter shifts, and recognize top performers. It’s not about catching mistakes. It’s about leading with clarity and building a team that knows what’s expected and where they shine. Track Peak Hours and Plan Accordingly There are always those times during the week that feel overwhelming. But instead of relying on memory to plan your schedule, SkyTab gives you data on exactly when your busiest times occur. You can break down your sales by daypart, shift, or even minute-by-minute. That means you can prep the kitchen before the lunch rush or stagger your servers more efficiently during dinner service. This kind of data helps you avoid overstaffing when it's slow and understaffing when it’s not. It makes your labor more efficient, and it gives your guests a better experience because your team is ready when they walk in. Fine-Tune Your Inventory and Reduce Waste SkyTab’s reporting doesn’t stop at front-of-house. It gives you insights into your inventory, so you can make smarter decisions about what to order and when. When you know what sells, you can keep the right ingredients stocked and avoid over-ordering. If you notice certain items leading to waste or spoilage, you can make changes before it turns into a bigger issue. You’re not spending hours trying to cross-check spreadsheets or running into last-minute shortages. Your system does the tracking for you and gives you the information you need to run a tighter kitchen. Keep Your Finger on the Pulse in Real Time Some POS systems make you wait until the end of the week or month to see your numbers. By then, it’s too late to make changes that could have helped you today. SkyTab updates your data in real time. You can check in from the office, the floor, or even your phone. Whether you want to see how today’s lunch shift went or get a quick snapshot of sales during dinner service, the information is there when you need it. That flexibility gives you confidence. You don’t have to be in the building to know how your restaurant is doing. And you’re not making decisions based on partial information. You’ve got a live view of your business every day. Plan Promotions That Actually Work Promotions and specials are great ways to bring people in, but it’s hard to know what’s paying off unless you’re tracking it. SkyTab lets you review the success of each promotion by looking at actual sales data, not just busy dining room vibes. Did your Tuesday pasta special bring in new traffic? Did your happy hour increase check averages or just shift regular sales earlier in the day? These are the kinds of questions you can answer with your POS data. When you understand the results, you can plan better promotions, price them right, and time them when they’ll have the biggest impact. Connect Sales with Marketing Efforts If you’re using SkyTab’s built-in marketing tools, you can match your email and text promotions with actual sales performance. That means you’re not just sending messages and hoping for the best. You can track whether a message led to more orders, higher ticket totals, or repeat visits. Over time, that connection between outreach and results helps you refine your messaging. You’ll know what your audience responds to, what time they’re most likely to engage, and what kinds of deals bring them back. This gives you a full-circle view of your customer relationship, from first message to final ticket. Make Adjustments Without the Guesswork Running a restaurant means adapting quickly. A supplier price increase, a change in foot traffic, or a new trend in dining habits can all affect your numbers. When you’ve got the right POS system, you can respond to those shifts with data instead of guesswork. SkyTab gives you daily snapshots of how your business is performing, so you can adjust before a small issue becomes a big one. Whether that’s updating your menu, changing your pricing, or adjusting staff scheduling, you’re doing it with real information. Build a Smarter Restaurant One Shift at a Time Data doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need to be an analyst or dig through spreadsheets for hours. You just need the right system to surface the right numbers at the right time. SkyTab was built to do that. It gives you the insights you need without slowing you down. You’ll understand what’s working, what’s not, and where you can make smart changes that actually help. This isn’t about overhauling your restaurant overnight. It’s about building a stronger business shift by shift, backed by data you can trust. If you're ready to get a clearer view of what’s happening inside your restaurant and use that insight to make better decisions, SkyTab has the tools to help.

The restaurant world has changed. The way guests interact with your business has shifted, and mobile ordering has quickly gone from being a nice extra to a basic expectation. If your restaurant isn’t offering it, you may already be falling behind. Guests don’t want to wait in long lines or flag down a busy server to place an order. They want to sit down, scan a QR code, browse the menu, and send in their order with just a few taps. Whether it’s at the table, from their car, or for pickup, customers now expect convenience on their terms. That’s where SkyTab’s mobile ordering solution comes in. Let’s take a closer look at how mobile ordering is reshaping the restaurant experience and why SkyTab is built to help you stay ahead of the curve. Meeting Guests Where They Are Mobile ordering isn’t just about technology. It’s about giving your guests a smoother experience. When someone walks into your restaurant or places an order online, they want everything to be clear, easy, and quick. They want to feel like they’re in control of their experience. With SkyTab, your guests can order from their phones using a clean, simple interface. They don’t need to download an app or wait in line. They don’t have to repeat their order twice or worry about mistakes. Everything is done right from their device, and the kitchen receives the order instantly. You’re not just speeding up service. You’re creating a more relaxed and efficient environment, both for your staff and your guests. Reducing Strain on Staff Hiring and retaining restaurant staff is one of the biggest challenges owners face today. Mobile ordering helps take the pressure off. Instead of running back and forth between tables, servers can focus more on delivering a great experience, answering questions, and managing fewer touchpoints with guests. When guests place their own orders, you reduce order entry errors and speed up the entire process. It’s not about replacing your team. It’s about giving them better tools so they can focus on hospitality instead of logistics. SkyTab lets you offer mobile ordering without sacrificing service. It becomes part of your overall flow, not a separate or clunky system. Your staff will thank you for it, and your guests will notice the difference. Better Order Accuracy and Menu Control Mistakes happen when things get busy. A server might mishear a modifier. A customer might forget to mention an allergy. These kinds of errors can lead to returned dishes, upset guests, or even lost revenue. Mobile ordering through SkyTab removes that friction. Guests see the full menu right in front of them, with photos, descriptions, and any necessary notes. They can take their time selecting what they want, choose modifiers, and make notes if needed. And if you need to change your menu, you can do it instantly from your SkyTab dashboard. Remove an item when it runs out. Add a daily special. Update pricing. You’re not reprinting anything or waiting on third-party platforms. You stay in full control. Keeping Lines Moving and Tables Turning For counter-service and fast casual restaurants, mobile ordering cuts down wait times and line congestion. Guests can place an order before arriving or while standing in line, and pick up their food as soon as it’s ready. For full-service restaurants, it keeps the table turn moving. When guests can browse the menu and order drinks or appetizers before the server arrives, you’re making the most of your busy hours. It adds efficiency without making anyone feel rushed. SkyTab integrates your mobile ordering into the rest of your POS, so tickets show up where they need to go and nothing gets lost. You’re not juggling disconnected systems or creating more work for your team. Adapting to Changing Expectations Today’s diners expect technology to enhance their experience, not get in the way. They’re already used to ordering their groceries, booking appointments, and shopping online from their phones. Ordering food should be just as simple. Restaurants that make mobile ordering part of the experience show guests they’re keeping up. You’re not trying to be trendy. You’re trying to meet your guests where they are. SkyTab gives you that flexibility without adding complexity. Whether your customers are dining in, ordering for takeout, or planning a pickup, you’re giving them options that match their lifestyle. Saving on Costs, Boosting Efficiency Unlike some third-party systems that take a cut of every order, SkyTab’s mobile ordering is part of your POS platform. That means you’re not paying commissions just to use your own menu. You keep more of your revenue, and your guests get a direct connection to your restaurant. That also means no more bouncing between platforms or dealing with system mismatches. Orders go directly from the guest to your kitchen, and everything stays in sync. You can track performance, spot trends, and make smarter decisions with everything under one system. Customizable for Your Brand Mobile ordering with SkyTab isn’t just a cookie-cutter tool. You can customize it to match your restaurant’s style. From menu photos to item descriptions and category layouts, you decide how your brand is presented to every guest who uses it. You can highlight popular items, promote high-margin specials, or group dishes in a way that makes it easy to upsell. The experience is clean, professional, and reflects your restaurant, not a third-party brand. It’s Time to Make It Easy for Guests to Order When guests walk into your restaurant, they’re not just looking for great food. They’re looking for a great experience. That includes how they place their order, how long it takes to arrive, and how easy it is to pay when they’re ready to leave. Mobile ordering helps you deliver that. It’s faster, more flexible, and gives your guests more control over their visit. And with SkyTab, it’s built right into your POS platform, so you don’t have to worry about extra integrations or outside tools. You don’t need to change everything about how your restaurant works. You just need tools that fit into the flow of your business and make it easier for your team to serve guests. That’s what SkyTab is built to do. If you’re thinking about offering mobile ordering or looking for a better way to connect with guests, now’s the time to take the next step. Let SkyTab show you what’s possible when your restaurant is equipped with tools that match how people dine today.

Running a restaurant today is not the same as it was even just a few years ago. The way guests expect to order, pay, and experience your space has evolved. As an independent restaurant owner, you’re juggling everything from kitchen flow to front-of-house service to online reviews. It’s a lot. That’s why more operators are turning to modern point-of-sale systems to help run a smoother, smarter business. And if you’re in that boat, SkyTab is built with you in mind. This isn’t just about processing credit cards or printing receipts. It’s about having the right tools in your corner to operate efficiently, communicate better with staff and guests, and keep things moving when your restaurant is packed. A good POS system is more than a terminal. It’s your control center. Let’s talk about how a modern setup like SkyTab can change the way you run your restaurant. Taking the Stress Out of the Floor One of the biggest pain points in most restaurants is that rush window when everything hits at once. Orders are flying in, your staff is stretched thin, and a single delay at one table can affect everything. SkyTab’s handheld devices allow your team to take orders and process payments right at the table. No more running back and forth between a crowded terminal and the dining area. Servers stay on the floor, guests get what they need faster, and the kitchen gets accurate orders with fewer mistakes. It keeps the flow going. And when the flow is right, service feels seamless. Guests notice that. You can’t always control the pace of your restaurant, but you can control the tools your staff uses to keep up with it. A POS That Works the Way You Do Not every restaurant operates the same way. Some run on fast-casual setups. Others are full-service with a bar. SkyTab gives you the flexibility to build your POS around the way you actually run things. You’re not forced into a one-size-fits-all layout. You can customize menus, add modifiers, and create workflows that make sense for your team. And when things change, like a new seasonal menu or a weekly special, it’s easy to update. You’re not tied to complicated systems that take forever to modify. With SkyTab, your tech adjusts to your business, not the other way around. Keep Guests Moving with Contactless Payments Contactless is not a trend anymore. It’s the new normal. Guests want to pay their way, whether that’s tapping a card, using Apple Pay, or scanning a QR code. SkyTab supports all of it. That means fewer delays at the end of a meal and more ways for customers to pay without hassle. It also helps with table turns. When guests can pay quickly, you keep your flow steady without feeling rushed. That kind of smooth checkout experience builds trust. It shows that your restaurant is up to date and thinking ahead. Your Data, Right When You Need It One of the most underrated parts of a modern POS system is what it tells you when the shift is over. SkyTab gives you access to real-time sales data, menu performance, and labor reports right from your dashboard. No digging through spreadsheets or waiting for a weekly email. You can see how the day went and start making smarter decisions tomorrow. Want to know your top-performing server? It’s in there. Curious about which menu item is dragging down your ticket average? You’ll see it. Looking at trends over time to plan staffing or inventory? That’s available too. The more you know about what’s actually happening inside your restaurant, the better you can lead your team and plan for growth. Simplifying Staff Training If you’ve ever trained a new hire on an outdated system, you know how painful that can be. Complicated menus, clunky buttons, and slow responses can frustrate even the most patient new employee. SkyTab’s layout is built for speed and simplicity, so your team can learn it quickly and use it confidently. That cuts down on errors, but it also boosts morale. When your staff feels like they’re supported by solid tools, it’s easier for them to focus on delivering great service. You’re already working hard to create a good culture in your restaurant. The tools you give your team should reflect that. Tools That Help You Market, Too Running a great restaurant is only part of the equation. Getting people to come back is the other half. SkyTab helps with that too. Built-in marketing tools let you send promotions, collect guest feedback, and build loyalty programs without having to bolt on other software. Want to let customers know about a weekend special or a happy hour deal? You can do that from your dashboard. Want to reward repeat guests? That’s built in. These tools work together with the rest of your system, so you’re not juggling five different platforms to reach your customers. It’s all in one place, right where it should be. Support You Can Count On When you run a restaurant, things don’t always go according to plan. That’s why SkyTab offers 24/7 support to make sure your system is always ready. Whether you need help during dinner rush or just have a question during setup, you’ve got someone to call. No waiting around. No guessing games. You’re never left to figure things out on your own. That kind of backup makes a big difference when you’re in the thick of service and need things running smoothly. Built for Independent Operators SkyTab isn’t just built for big chains with deep pockets and dedicated IT teams. It’s made for independent restaurant owners who wear a lot of hats. Whether you’re the chef, the GM, the bookkeeper, or all three, SkyTab is here to make your day easier, not harder. You get powerful tools without the complexity. A modern experience without the learning curve. It’s everything you need to stay competitive in today’s market, all in one platform. Let’s Talk About What’s Next You don’t need to overhaul your entire operation overnight. But if you’re still using outdated POS tech or juggling too many disconnected tools, it might be time for a change. SkyTab is built for restaurants like yours, with features that make a difference where it counts. From streamlining service to understanding your numbers to helping guests pay how they want, SkyTab gives you the tools to run smarter every shift. When your systems are built right, everything else falls into place a little easier. If you're ready to see what that looks like in your space, SkyTab can help. Let’s get you set up with something that actually works the way you work.

Choosing a point of sale (POS) system for your restaurant is one of the most important decisions you'll make. A great POS does more than just process payments. It helps manage your menu, speed up service, track employee performance, reduce mistakes, and provide the data you need to grow. If you're still using an outdated system or evaluating options for a new restaurant, this guide will walk you through exactly what to look for and why SkyTab is built to meet those needs. What Makes a Good Restaurant POS System? Before comparing systems, it’s important to understand what features actually matter. Not all POS systems are built the same, and what works for a retail store might not make sense in a full-service restaurant or quick-service kitchen. Here’s what every restaurant owner should prioritize: Fast, reliable order entry Real-time syncing to the kitchen Tableside and contactless payment options Mobile and handheld devices Online ordering integration Inventory and menu management Employee tracking and scheduling 24/7 support Clear, accurate reporting If your system lacks any of those, you're likely dealing with inefficiencies, staff frustration, and lost revenue. Feature Breakdown: What to Look for and Why It Matters 1. Tableside Ordering and Payments Your POS should allow servers to take orders at the table and send them directly to the kitchen. This saves time, reduces mistakes, and allows for faster table turns. When guests can also pay at the table, you improve the overall experience and increase tipping percentages. 2. Online and Mobile Ordering Integration Third-party apps can be expensive and disconnected. Choose a POS that includes its own commission-free online ordering tool that ties into your main system. That way, tickets go straight to the kitchen without double entry. 3. Custom Menu Management Restaurants change menus often. Look for a system that lets you easily update items, prices, and modifiers from a single dashboard. You should also be able to apply changes instantly to all terminals without rebooting anything. 4. Inventory Tracking A modern POS tracks ingredient-level inventory automatically as items are sold. This helps prevent running out of key items and makes reordering more accurate. 5. Employee Performance and Scheduling Tools Labor is one of your biggest expenses. Your POS should show you who’s selling the most, who’s clocking in late, and where you’re over- or under-scheduled. Bonus if it also syncs with your payroll system. 6. Reporting and Analytics Data is only helpful if you can understand it. Look for clean, accessible reporting on sales by item, server, time period, and more. Cloud-based access lets you run your business even when you're off-site. 7. Loyalty and Gift Card Programs Rewarding return customers and offering gift cards can drive revenue. A POS with built-in loyalty and gift card capabilities keeps it all under one roof. 8. Secure Payments and EMV Compliance Make sure your POS accepts chip cards, contactless payments, and is fully PCI compliant. This protects your business and gives your guests peace of mind. 9. Customer Support You Can Count On When your POS goes down, you need help immediately. Make sure the provider offers 24/7 in-house support with no long hold times or outsourced teams. POS Buying Traps to Avoid Don’t pick based on price alone. A cheaper system that can’t scale or support your workflow will cost more in the long run. Don’t settle for hardware that’s outdated. Many providers bundle refurbished equipment or require expensive upgrades down the road. Avoid systems that don’t include support or software updates. If the company charges extra for basic tools, you're not getting a good deal. Be wary of long-term contracts with no trial period. A reputable provider should offer you a risk-free trial and transparent terms. Why SkyTab Is One of the Best POS Systems for Restaurants SkyTab is a complete POS solution designed for restaurants, bars, and quick-service operations. It includes: Free hardware with no upfront cost Cloud-based management dashboard Mobile and handheld devices Tableside ordering and payment tools QR code ordering and contactless pay Free online ordering (no commissions) Integrated gift cards and loyalty programs Real-time reporting and labor tools 24/7 in-house support Free installation and training With SkyTab, you get everything you need to run your restaurant efficiently without needing to piece together multiple systems or pay high upfront fees. Final Checklist Before Choosing a POS Here’s a simple way to evaluate your options: Does it include all the hardware I need? Can my staff use it easily? Does it support both in-person and online orders? Can I track my sales and labor data in one place? What happens if I need help after hours? Will I need to pay for updates or features later? How fast can I get up and running? If the answer is no to any of those, it’s worth exploring other options. Get Started With a Better POS Whether you're opening a new restaurant or replacing an outdated system, you need a POS that works as hard as you do. SkyTab is built from the ground up to support restaurants of all sizes with the tools they need to grow. To learn more, schedule a demo. There's no risk to try it, and installation is included. The right POS system can improve everything from tip size to table turns to staff performance. Let’s get yours set up the right way.

Running a successful restaurant is all about the numbers. Profit margins are tight, labor costs are rising, and customer expectations are higher than ever. But there's one tool that can help you boost tips, speed up service, and increase overall profitability without needing to hire more staff or expand your space. A modern point of sale (POS) system can make that difference. Whether you're managing a full-service restaurant, bar, or quick-service operation, upgrading your POS system can help you make more money, faster. Let’s break down exactly how. 1. Faster Table Turnover = More Revenue Per Shift A dated POS system slows everything down. Orders get written by hand, input later, and sent to the kitchen in batches. Servers make unnecessary trips back and forth from terminals, and customers wait longer to get their food and their check. With a mobile-first POS system like SkyTab, servers can take orders directly at the table using a handheld device and send them straight to the kitchen in real time. When the meal is over, the same device is used to close the check, collect payment, and prompt the customer to leave a tip. Faster orders mean faster meals. Faster meals mean you can serve more guests per shift without needing more tables or staff. 2. Higher Tips Through Tableside Payments Your servers work hard. The easier it is for customers to leave a tip, the more likely they are to leave a generous one. When you switch to a POS system that includes tableside payments, tipping becomes simple. A digital prompt suggests a set percentage and customers can choose one with a tap. That removes the awkward pause while they calculate a tip manually or wait for a paper receipt. In most cases, digital tip prompts result in higher tip percentages. This not only boosts morale and retention among your waitstaff, but also helps reduce employee turnover, which is costly and time-consuming for any restaurant. 3. Reduced Errors and Faster Order Entry Handwritten orders lead to mistakes. Mistakes lead to wasted food, comped meals, and unhappy guests. When servers use a mobile POS to input orders immediately, everything is more accurate. Modifiers, allergy notes, and custom requests are captured in real time and sent directly to the kitchen display system or ticket printer. This ensures the back of house staff gets exactly what was ordered with no need for clarification. Fewer errors also mean fewer re-cooks and less wasted time and ingredients, which contributes directly to your bottom line. 4. More Efficient Staff Management With a cloud-based POS, you can view labor reports, sales per employee, and hourly productivity stats right from your dashboard. This allows you to make smarter scheduling decisions and ensure your best employees are placed during your busiest times. It also helps reduce labor costs during slow periods. You can even set alerts to monitor overtime thresholds, track clock-ins and clock-outs, and reduce time theft or scheduling inconsistencies. With better labor visibility, managers spend less time running reports and more time running the floor. 5. Fewer Chargebacks and Payment Disputes A modern POS system gives you access to secure, EMV-compliant transactions with digital receipts. That means if a customer ever disputes a charge, you have clear proof of what was ordered, when it was paid for, and who the server was. Having the ability to pull that data instantly reduces the chance of a lost chargeback and can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars over time. 6. Better Data Leads to Smarter Promotions When your POS tracks item-level sales, you can quickly identify your most profitable menu items. You’ll also spot trends like high-selling days, hours, or seasonal items. This lets you run more effective promotions, limit low-performing dishes, and optimize your menu based on real data, not guesswork. The result? Higher per-ticket averages and better food cost control. 7. Seamless Integration With Online Ordering and Loyalty Your POS shouldn’t operate in a silo. If your current system doesn’t talk to your online ordering, third-party delivery platforms, or loyalty program, you’re leaving money on the table. SkyTab POS connects all of these pieces. Orders placed online go straight to the kitchen. Loyalty points are tracked automatically. And promotions can be tied to customer profiles, making every marketing dollar more effective. The more connected your tools are, the more powerful your business becomes. 8. Contactless Options Improve Guest Experience Customers expect flexibility. Whether it’s scanning a QR code to view a menu, placing an order from their phone, or paying without handing over a card, your restaurant should make it easy. A modern POS includes all of these options. That means guests get what they want faster, staff can serve more tables with less friction, and your brand reputation improves through smoother service. 9. No Upfront Cost Makes It Easy to Switch One of the biggest barriers to upgrading a POS system is the upfront cost. With SkyTab, there is no hardware cost to get started. You receive the full countertop system, EMV payment devices, and even tableside hardware at no charge. For restaurants operating on tight budgets, this makes upgrading possible without stretching cash flow. And with a low monthly fee that covers support, software, and installation, it's a much smarter long-term investment than trying to maintain an outdated system. Ready to Increase Tips, Turnover, and Profit? If your current POS isn’t helping your team make more money and serve more guests, it’s time to consider something better. SkyTab is built specifically for restaurants and includes everything from mobile ordering to detailed sales analytics, all backed by 24/7 in-house support and a lifetime warranty on hardware.

If you're running a restaurant, your point of sale (POS) system is more than just a cash register. It should help your staff move faster, improve the customer experience, and keep your business running smoothly. But if your current setup is starting to hold you back, it might be time to upgrade. Below are seven clear signs it's time to invest in a better POS system. 1. Long wait times for customers If guests are standing around waiting to pay or receive their order, your POS system could be slowing things down. Modern systems like SkyTab support tableside payments and mobile ordering, which help reduce wait times and keep your staff moving. 2. You can't update your menu easily Menu changes should be quick and painless. If your current POS requires a technician or clunky back-end process just to swap out a dish or update pricing, it's outdated. A good POS should let you manage menu items in real time from anywhere. 3. Lack of real-time reporting You need to know what is selling, when it's selling, and who is selling it. If your system doesn't provide detailed reporting on sales, labor, and performance, you're missing opportunities to make smarter business decisions. 4. No integration with online ordering or QR codes Restaurants today need to offer multiple ordering options, including online orders, takeout, and contactless dining. If your POS doesn’t integrate with online platforms or support QR code ordering, you're missing out on both convenience and customer satisfaction. 5. Frequent system crashes or slow performance POS downtime can cost you money and frustrate your team. If your system crashes often, freezes up during busy shifts, or just feels outdated, it could be time to switch to a more reliable, cloud-based solution like SkyTab. 6. No mobile or handheld options for servers Your team should be able to take orders and payments right at the table. A modern POS system includes handheld devices that allow servers to enter orders instantly and collect payments without running back and forth to a terminal. 7. Poor customer support from your current provider If getting help when something goes wrong feels like pulling teeth, you're not alone. A good POS provider should offer fast, reliable support with experts who understand restaurant operations. SkyTab includes 24/7 in-house support and onsite installation, so you're never left in the dark. What to Do Next If you're experiencing any of the issues above, it's probably time to upgrade your system. SkyTab was built for restaurant operators who need a reliable, fast, and feature-rich POS that makes daily tasks easier and helps drive growth. With tools for tableside service, online ordering, loyalty, and advanced reporting, it covers all the bases. 

Choosing the right point-of-sale system is one of the most important decisions a restaurant owner can make. With so many options on the market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Most POS providers promise fast transactions, modern features, and reliable support, but not all of them follow through. As a partner of SkyTab, we’ve worked with restaurants across different formats and sizes to help them upgrade from clunky or expensive systems to one that actually works the way they need it to. What makes SkyTab different starts with its pricing. There are no huge upfront fees. You don’t have to lease hardware. You don’t have to pay for every add-on just to get the basics working. The hardware is included at no additional cost and comes with a lifetime warranty. That’s a major shift from many providers who charge thousands just to get started or lock you into long-term contracts with penalties for early cancellation. The pricing model is simple and predictable. For $29.99 per month, restaurants get access to core POS features, integrated payments, online ordering, QR code tools, marketing, and even a branded website if needed. There’s no nickel and diming for each new function. For restaurant owners trying to scale or run lean, this kind of transparency and flexibility is hard to beat. Next is the system’s flexibility. SkyTab works for full-service restaurants, counter-service spots, food trucks, bars, and even multi-location chains. It supports mobile ordering, tableside payments, customer displays, and kitchen displays. Whether your business runs dine-in, takeout, delivery, or all three, the platform is built to handle it without forcing you into workarounds or third-party integrations. Another area where SkyTab stands out is its user interface. It’s designed to be clean and intuitive, which helps reduce training time for new employees. Servers can learn how to place orders and split checks quickly. Managers can view real-time reports and adjust menus without needing outside help. This ease of use reduces errors and helps your team stay focused on customers instead of tech issues. Support also sets it apart. Many POS providers outsource their customer service or have limited availability, leaving restaurant owners stranded when something goes wrong. With SkyTab, you get 24/7 in-house support. That means you can pick up the phone any time, day or night, and talk to someone who understands how the system works and can actually help. This is especially important during weekends, holidays, or peak hours when issues can cost real money if not resolved fast. Installation is also handled differently. Rather than sending you a box and expecting you to figure it out, a trained installer sets everything up and tests it onsite. That includes integrating printers, kitchen displays, payment devices, and menu programming. You can start using the system confidently from day one. Another key differentiator is the all-in-one design. Most systems require you to pay extra for online ordering, loyalty programs, or marketing tools. SkyTab includes these features in the base package. You don’t have to manage separate subscriptions, worry about compatibility issues, or juggle multiple platforms just to get through a normal shift. The reporting tools are also more advanced than most entry-level systems. You can track labor costs, see sales performance by hour, review employee productivity, and identify top-selling items across locations. These insights help you make better decisions without spending hours sorting through spreadsheets or waiting for weekly reports. SkyTab also gives restaurants full control over their customer data. When someone places an order, joins a loyalty program, or leaves feedback, that information belongs to the restaurant—not a third-party service. This means you can re-engage customers through email marketing, track trends in ordering behavior, and build long-term loyalty without handing your data over to someone else. Finally, the platform continues to evolve. Updates are pushed out regularly and included in your subscription. You don’t have to pay extra for new features or worry about falling behind. As a partner, we help keep your system current and make sure you’re getting the most value out of the platform. With so many options in the POS space, it’s easy to get stuck with a system that overpromises and underdelivers. SkyTab is built for real-world restaurant needs, not just sales demos. From pricing to support to long-term flexibility, it offers a level of reliability and transparency that’s rare in the industry. If you’re comparing POS providers and want to know how this system stacks up against what you’re currently using, we’re here to walk through the details with you. No pressure, just answers. Let’s figure out if it’s the right fit for your operation.

Managing a restaurant is a constant balancing act. From scheduling employees and managing inventory to handling guest orders and reviewing reports, there’s a lot going on behind the scenes. That’s why having a point-of-sale system that brings everything together into one place is essential. As a partner of SkyTab, we help restaurants streamline their daily operations with tools that are built into a single platform and designed to make life easier for owners and staff alike. Let’s start with employee management. Whether you run a small diner or a multi-location operation, keeping track of hours, scheduling shifts, and managing performance can be a full-time job. SkyTab’s system helps simplify this. You can schedule staff based on expected sales volume, track hours through built-in time clocks, and monitor who is clocked in and when. You can even spot trends like which team members are consistently outperforming others, giving you valuable insights for coaching or recognition. Menu management is another major benefit of an integrated POS. Need to update a price or remove a sold-out item? You can make the change in one place and it automatically updates across all your ordering platforms, including online menus and QR code ordering systems. That reduces confusion and helps prevent miscommunication between the front and back of house. It also means no more printing new menus every time you want to adjust a dish or test out a special. Order accuracy also improves when everything runs through a single system. Whether an order comes from a server at the table, a mobile device, or a customer using QR code ordering, it’s routed directly to the kitchen display system without needing to be re-entered. This eliminates a major source of error and helps keep your kitchen running smoothly, especially during busy shifts. Speaking of the kitchen, digital displays help back-of-house teams stay organized. Tickets show up instantly and in the right order, and items can be marked as prepared in real time. This reduces delays and allows the kitchen to focus on cooking instead of sorting through printed tickets or waiting for someone to clarify a handwritten note. For management, the reporting tools are a huge time-saver. Instead of digging through spreadsheets or running separate reports for each department, everything is consolidated into one dashboard. You can see sales performance, labor costs, order trends, and more. You’ll know what’s working and what needs to change without having to guess. These reports also help you spot patterns that can guide better decisions. If you notice that a certain menu item is selling poorly during lunch but doing well at dinner, you can adjust how it’s promoted or when it’s available. If labor costs are climbing on slow days, you can fine-tune your staffing levels. The system helps you make data-informed decisions that directly impact your profitability. Another overlooked benefit is how all-in-one systems reduce the need for extra subscriptions. Many restaurant owners end up juggling multiple tools for scheduling, online ordering, marketing, and reporting. With SkyTab, most of those functions are built in. That means fewer logins, fewer support numbers to call, and less money spent on outside services. You’re not just saving time—you’re also simplifying your entire operation. Training new staff is also easier. Instead of trying to teach them three or four disconnected systems, you show them one. The interface is designed to be intuitive, which helps reduce errors and shortens the time it takes for new employees to get comfortable with the tools. Having everything in one place also improves your customer experience. Orders are faster, mistakes are fewer, and staff can focus more on guests instead of working around clunky software. When your team isn’t fighting the system, they have more time and energy to create a great dining experience. As a SkyTab partner, we help restaurants get fully set up with everything they need to make the most of these tools. That includes installing the system, customizing it to your menu and staff size, and making sure it’s aligned with how you already operate. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every setup is tailored to fit your needs. In the end, using a POS system that brings together scheduling, ordering, reporting, and staff management helps you focus on what really matters—running a great restaurant. Instead of bouncing between systems and troubleshooting tech during your busiest hours, you’ll have a platform that keeps everything running in sync. If you’re ready to bring order to your operations and reduce the friction in your day-to-day workflow, we’re here to help. Let’s talk about what this system could look like for your business and how it can start saving you time from day one.

Running a restaurant has always come with tight margins. Between food costs, labor, and overhead, there’s not a lot of room to give away a cut of every sale. Yet that’s exactly what happens when restaurants rely on third-party delivery apps and online ordering platforms. While these services bring in orders, they also take a significant percentage of each transaction. As a partner of SkyTab, we help restaurants move away from that model with commission-free online ordering that puts more money back into the business. When you offer your own online ordering platform, you stay in control of your sales. There’s no outside app changing your menu prices, delaying your orders, or collecting customer data for their own use. Every order placed through your system is yours from start to finish. That means more consistent experiences for your customers and more revenue in your pocket. The problem with many popular third-party apps is the cost. They typically charge a service fee to the customer, a commission fee to the restaurant, and sometimes even a marketing fee if you want to appear higher in search results. Once all those charges are applied, it’s not uncommon for restaurants to lose a large portion of the sale. Over time, that adds up. With SkyTab’s built-in online ordering, there are no commission fees. The system connects directly to your POS, so you don’t have to manually enter orders from another platform. Customers place orders through your website or mobile page, and the ticket goes straight to your kitchen. You keep full control over your pricing, your menu, and your timing. Another major advantage is branding. When a customer orders through your own platform, they stay connected to your restaurant, not a third-party app. That gives you more opportunities to market to them later through email, loyalty programs, or special offers. It’s your data and your relationship to manage, which is critical for building repeat business. Restaurants using third-party apps often struggle with inaccurate orders, missing items, or customer service issues that are out of their hands. With your own system, you reduce those risks. You can monitor everything from preparation time to customer preferences, and you can resolve issues directly without relying on an outside company to represent you. The online ordering tool also includes features designed to make managing takeout and delivery easier. You can update menu items in real time, adjust prep times based on kitchen load, and pause ordering during rushes if needed. These kinds of tools help you manage demand more effectively, which leads to better service and fewer mistakes. It’s also easier to promote your own ordering system. Many restaurants offer a small discount or exclusive item for customers who order directly rather than through an app. Even without a discount, many customers are happy to support local businesses more directly when given the option. A simple reminder on your website or in your restaurant can be enough to shift behavior over time. As a SkyTab partner, we help restaurants get this system up and running quickly. We work with you to set up your menu, customize the ordering flow, and connect everything to your existing operations. We’ll also train your staff and provide support as your team adapts to the new tools. This is not just about saving money. It’s about running a smarter, more efficient restaurant. By moving away from platforms that charge fees on every sale, you can invest those savings back into your business. That might mean hiring another employee, upgrading equipment, or expanding your marketing efforts. Commission-free online ordering helps you take back control over your takeout and delivery business. It makes things simpler for your team, more consistent for your customers, and more profitable for your bottom line. If you're interested in keeping more of what you earn while still offering customers the convenience they expect, let’s talk. We’re here to help you set up a solution that fits your workflow and grows with your business.