Analysis of the Actual Functions of Touchscreens on Ordering Machines
1. Simple operation, faster ordering
Direct selection: Just like using a smartphone, customers can tap on the images or names of dishes on the screen with their fingers, making it more intuitive than traditional button-based menus.
Swipe to scroll: If the menu is long, customers can swipe up/down or left/right like scrolling through short videos to quickly find the desired category (e.g., “Burgers,” “Drinks,” “Snacks”).
2. Easier order modifications
Add/remove items: If you select the wrong item, you can delete it directly or adjust the quantity (e.g., change from 1 cup of cola to 2 cups), without having to rewrite the order like with a paper menu.
Real-time total price display: Each time an item is selected, the screen automatically calculates the total amount, avoiding manual calculation errors.
3. Adapt to different usage environments
Anti-misoperation design:
Critical buttons (such as “Confirm Payment”) are made larger or require two taps to prevent accidental operations.
The screen remains functional even when covered in oil or water (e.g., in a fried chicken shop).
Visible in bright light:
Outdoor ordering machines (e.g., night markets, food trucks) use high-brightness screens with large fonts and high contrast to avoid glare and ensure visibility.
4. Reduced maintenance costs
Functional even with partial damage: If a portion of the screen (e.g., the top-right corner) loses touch functionality, other areas remain usable for ordering, without affecting core functions.
Replace the screen, not the main unit: The touchscreen and main unit are designed separately, so if the screen breaks, only the screen needs to be replaced, saving money compared to scrapping the entire machine.
5. Suitable for different groups of people
Adjustable font size: Elderly people can enlarge the font size, while younger people can quickly swipe and operate.
Combination of icons and text: Even if you cannot read the text (e.g., children, foreigners), you can still order by looking at the images.
Why do ordering machines use touchscreens?
More flexible than button menus (easier to modify orders, clearer categorization).
More stable than mobile ordering (dedicated machine, no risk of lag or network issues).
More cost-effective than manual ordering (reduces staff, lowers the risk of pricing errors).
The core of a touchscreen ordering machine is simplicity, durability, and reliability—no need for fancy features, as stable operation is the most important factor.