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 Client SpotlightHeadquartered in Vancouver, Canada, The Keg operates more than 70 upscale steakhouses across the U.S. and Canada. Read more... |
 Development NewsIn the near future the entire system will be cross-browser compatible, eliminating the requirement to use Internet Explorer to access the system. Read more.... |
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 Introducing the New Enterprise Recipe Module!Designed specifically for companies who utilize a multi-site approach with their FOOD-TRAK system, the Enterprise Recipe Module allows a company to maintain and share recipes through a centralized database. Read more... |
 Tech CornerThe new 24/7 Client Support Center has been launched! With version 5.0 clients now have access to our Support Portal directly from the Main Menu. Read more.... |
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The 5th generation of the FOOD-TRAK System is here!
Starting with the updated look and feel of the Main Menu with modernized tabs across the top, animated drop down menus, and more descriptive icons, version 5 begins a new chapter in the FOOD-TRAK story. Much has changed since 1980 when FOOD-TRAK was introduced. And this 5th generation of the system exists in a world barely imaginable back then – or is it? Even then, we had mobile scanners, we offered the system on a service bureau, and it was the industry leader – in fact the first of its kind. The real changes have been associated with storage capacities, processor speed, and connection speeds. These improvements have made hosting and mobility – both of which rely on connection speed – much more useful.
The 5th generation of The FOOD-TRAK System has a number of design objectives directly relating to the realities of today’s data capacities and connection speeds. Cross-platform compatibility, extensive and appropriate use of mobile technologies and communication methods, speed improvements, ad-hoc reporting, enhanced integration options with other systems, and expanded single database capabilities are all being implemented in the version 5 series. So stay tuned and keep your eye on the Development News section of the newsletters to find out what goodies to expect with each enhancement of the version 5 series.
Introducing the 24/7 Client Support Center
With the release of version 5.0, we are also introducing our new 24/7 Client Support Center! This special web site, accessible from the main menu or the FOOD-TRAK web site allows users to submit and monitor cases, access FAQ's, and find useful information for common FOOD-TRAK topics. Check out the Tech Corner for details.
Check out the new Enterprise Recipe Module!
Developed from customer feedback, this module is designed for customers with larger systems who would benefit from sharing recipes across multiple sites.
Client Spotlight
Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, The Keg operates more than 70 upscale steakhouses across the U.S. and Canada. Ron Varley, VP of Planning and Systems for The Keg was instrumental in finding the proper solution to meet their company’s needs. According to Varley, “we wanted a system that provided critical inventory management features and offered a Web-based interface option. Because we manage our systems centrally, functionality was a key component. With over 70 remote sites accessing and sharing information, a Web-based interface was not an option, it was mandatory. The FOOD-TRAK Food & Beverage Management System was the best product on the market for a Web-based system, and it was definitely the software that was best able to handle our complex purchasing requirements.”
When asked about the factors that contributed to their selection of FOOD-TRAK, Varley states “the most attractive feature was the system’s flexibility in assigning existing or user-defined units and their corresponding vendor item codes to purchased items in order to match the varying pack sizes we receive from distributors that supply our concept. We know from past experience, it can be a major headache if the system isn't flexible enough in this regard. Tracking key inventory items was one of the most critical components for selection. FOOD-TRAK’s comprehensive variance and key item tracking features played a major factor in our decision.”
“The Keg’s centralized enterprise approach to managing and sharing information takes one more piece of software out of the stores,” Varley continues. “Plus, FOOD-TRAK’s ability to manage two-way flow of data from site to site enables us to update multiple sites simultaneously.”
“The Keg is pleased with the results seen from FOOD-TRAK,” according to Varley, “We are able to manage the key information from our corporate location and quickly and efficiently communicate changes to our remote sites. The biggest single benefit of our centrally managed database allows us to analyze variances by store. They can immediately detect and resolve a problem based on these comparisons.”
Operations Director Glenn Ostrander states, “Since implementing FOOD-TRAK, the store-to-store variance reports are way more accurate. Even if the recipe isn’t perfect, everyone is working from the same base, so it allows us to assess and track ‘real’ versus ‘phantom issues.” A 33 year veteran on The Keg, Ostrander has a good historical perspective on the subject. “Our variances are more accurate than they have ever been. I have more faith in our variances now than I have ever had.”
Would you like to have your organization featured in the Client Spotlight? Contact us to find out how!
Development News
In the near future the entire system will be cross-browser compatible, eliminating the requirement to use Internet Explorer to access the system. The Report functions were made compatible with Safari, Chrome and Firefox in v.4.72. As other functions are completed we will make them available in future v5.0 series releases. Watch for Database functions and Data Entry forms to be added in the coming weeks!
Introducing the Enterprise Recipe Module
Developed from customer feedback, this module is designed for customers with larger systems who would benefit from sharing recipes across multiple sites.
Designed specifically for companies who utilize a multi-site approach with their FOOD-TRAK system, the Enterprise Recipe Module allows a company to maintain and share recipes through a centralized database.
Features:
- Sites can view and select one or more recipes to import
- The automatic matching feature allows users to swap ingredients to match their inventoried items and adjust unit specifications, as needed
- Once all items are matched the recipe can be automatically added to the database
- Filtering options allow for easy selection of recipes - even if thousands exist!
- Designated corporate databases can easily model and cost corporate recipes to determine typical margins, even when locations vary by region.
Tech Corner
Introducing the 24/7 Client Support Center
The new 24/7 Client Support Center has been launched! With version 5.0 clients now have access to our Support Portal directly from the Main Menu.
Simply login to your FOOD-TRAK system and click the Support Portal icon to be directed to the Client Support Center.
Important: Version 5.0 does not allow users with the same User ID to be logged into the system simultaneously. You will need to assign each user their own unique ID, password, and associated email address.
Features:
- Add a Case online directly with our Support department
- View Cases to monitor you case status
- The new Community Forum is now available to allow users to exchange ideas with each other
- Help Us Improve by submitting feedback and suggestions
- The new Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section can help you troubleshoot common issues
- Enter key words or topics into search bar to find answers quickly
New Report Available – Ideal Usage Analysis Report
Developed from customer feedback, the Ideal Usage Analysis Report shows exactly how the ideal use value for any given item is calculated. The reports identifies transactions that contribute to the ideal usage including batch recipe level changes, product sales, recipe quantities and yield adjustments among others. The resulting audit trail allows you to find and correct recipe, sales and yield errors quickly and easily.
New Features in Version 5
New Graphical Main Menu
Version 5.0 allows you to easily access information through the new tile-based Main Menu. The new user-configurable workplace puts the desired functions right on the Main Menu meaning you can access more features with less clicks, providing a more efficient user experience.
Favorites
Your most recently accessed functions have been converted to "Favorites" and listed in three categories - Database, Data Entry and Reports. You can have up to 10 in each category and all show up on the Main Menu for easy access. You are now in control of this workplace as you have the ability to add/remove favorites at will. Think of it as your FOOD-TRAK Desktop!
University Course of the Month
Database 120: Templates
Taking time to create accurate and functional templates will significantly reduce inventory hours. This training covers how to create Internal Requisitions, Bids, and Inventory Templates. You will gain a better understanding of how to utilize the Procurement Template Manager to create, edit, delete or print site wide procurement templates. You will also learn some tips and tricks for optimizing your templates.
Click here to access the FOOD-TRAK University Course Catalog.
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