Database/Software for Indian Takeaway business

kaaloo

Hi

A friend of mine has an indian takeaway and wants to automate things a little bit and I said I would help!

He is looking for a relatively simple database that will run off a PC (Access based is fine) and will do the following:

- Allow him to store his customers names/address and possibly what they tend to order (last bit is not essential)

- He wants to be able to have instant access to the above so that when they call he can bring up their info by typing house no and part of the address and say things like "Oh Hi Mrs Smith how are the kids mike and sarah + would you like to order the usual? etc

I have worked with Access databases and I know they can do the above and much much more but is there anything out there that he can just pick up and use? Better still anywhere online where someone has already set something up for free!

Cant wait for the replies!

swebb

Sounds like it should be easy enough to set up.

Don't forget the Data Protection Act on this one (if customers details are being stored on the db).

happydj

I would do a search on google - you can also change it to pizza software or something and modify it for your own use

Encantador

He will need permission to get round the data protection act.

He could hand out cards for people to fill in (ideal why they are waiting for their order), he would need to explain that the info would be kept for his own use only etc etc.
Make sure he keeps the cards to prove permission was given.

Maybe he could link it to an email `offers` newsletter where he can keep his customers informed of changes in menu and offer occasional discounts etc.

He could also tell them that once a month one person from the DB is picked at random and receives their next order free (or something similar).

If he has a regular quiet night/s, he could send out an email a couple of days before and try and boost trade.

Permission is vital though.

Don`t forget the press release about local business embraces new technology......

John_Gray

There are systems available to do what you want, which employ touch screens to enable you to enter orders at the front counter (or from over the phone), and pass them on to where the food is made. The takeaway orders inevitably require the staff to collect the name, address and phone number of the person wanting the takeaway (else how could it be delivered?!) but the Data Protection Act is relevant here (and obviously you need to comply with it, not get round it).

I don't remember the name of the one whose duff touch-screen I worked on, but if you need to know I will try to find out.

John

nickmack

If they don't want to spend much money and it's fairly simple then Access would be the way to make it work.

It shouldn't take more than a few hours to do. Putting in the name and addresses would be the most time consuming part!

As others have mentioned it's important they comply with tha DPA, otherwise they might find themselves in hot water!

matty_c608

I have just finished designing a system like this for florists.

I used Visual Basic, linking to an access database.

Looks nice...

I could help you out maybe! PM me.

John_Gray

The software package I was referring to is called "In Touch", but a quick Google didn't come across it, sadly...

John