In this episode of Data Delicacies, host Arun Kumar sits down with Bryan Solar, Chief Product Officer at Spot On, to discuss how data and technology are revolutionizing the restaurant industry. Bryan dives deep into how point of sale systems have evolved from basic cash registers to becoming the operational "brain" of modern restaurants. He shares insights on the power of data, how Spot On curates top-tier technology solutions to simplify operators’ lives, and why prioritizing value over ego is key to long-term success. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a restaurant operator, this episode offers valuable takeaways on the future of restaurant tech.

Key Takeaways -

1. Data is the Next Oil: In today’s hospitality industry, data is becoming as valuable as oil, fueling the advancements in AI and reshaping how restaurants operate. The evolution of point-of-sale (POS) systems from basic cash registers to cloud-based platforms is transforming how restaurants manage their operations. With the influx of data, POS systems are becoming more proactive, offering real-time insights that help businesses not only track revenue but also optimize profitability. This shift is creating exciting opportunities for restaurant owners to leverage technology to enhance efficiency and increase profits.
2. Simplifying Technology Maximizes Efficiency: The restaurant tech industry has often overwhelmed operators with too many choices, forcing them to navigate complex integrations themselves. Bryan Solar emphasizes that more options aren’t always better, as it adds unnecessary burden to operators already managing day-to-day operations. At Spot On, the goal is to simplify technology adoption by curating and integrating only the best solutions, reducing the complexity and "diligence-pain" for restaurant owners. By offering a few well-vetted, reliable options, Spot On aims to make technology more accessible and effective, allowing operators to focus on running their business.
3. Low Ego, High Value: Bryan Solar stresses the importance of providing high-value solutions over pushing proprietary products simply because they’re developed in-house. At Spot On, the focus is on partnering with the best tools, whether first-party or third-party, like Ovation, which Solar praises for its quality. This "low ego, high value" approach ensures that operators receive the most effective solutions, keeping the end-user’s best interests in mind. By prioritizing what’s truly valuable for customers, Spot On aims to create better tech stacks and foster longer, more meaningful customer relationships.

Episode Links

• Connect with Bryan Solar on LinkedIn
• Visit Spot On Online
• Follow Spot On on Facebook
• Follow Spot On on Instagram
• Follow Spot On on X
• Subscribe to Spot On on YouTube
• Connect with Spot On on LinkedIn

ABOUT BRYAN SOLAR —

Bryan is passionate about helping Restaurant owners and their staff live a better life through technology. As the Chief Product Officer at SpotOn, he leads a team on a mission to create innovative, user-friendly products that empower restaurants to grow their business, streamline their operations, and uplevel their customer experiences.

Before joining SpotOn, he was was the GM and Head of Restaurants at Square, where he oversaw the Product, Engineering, Data Science, Marketing and Creative teams. During his tenure the Restaurants division generated triple-digit revenue growth and was featured on the cover of the company's 10-Q report.

Prior to Square, he also held various product leadership roles at Google and served as CEO of multiple startups he helped launch. 

ABOUT DATA DELICACIES—

Data Delicacies is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of technology and data as it pertains to restaurants. Host Arun Kumar interviews some of the best and brightest in the industry about all things hospitality tech, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.

• Data Delicacies on YouTube
• Listen to Data Delicacies on Spotify
• Visit Incentivio Online
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Produced by Incentivio & Cali BBQ Media