DOMINICAN VILLAGE RESTAURANT SATISFACTION KIOSKS GIVE VOICE TO PATRONS AND RESIDENTS
BY: ELENI FINKELSTEIN
A ssisted living centers are well known for their restaurant-style services available to residents. Each day the residents at Dominican Village Assisted Living Center in Amityville, NY, dine in with their peers, experiencing nutritious and delicious cooking. As with a typical restaurant, diners in assisted living communities should have the opportunity to offer their direct feedback after a meal. This is why Dominican Village recently incorporated a new way for residents to let the staff and kitchen know how well they enjoyed (or did not enjoy) the menu of the day. Patrons of the center will now find electronic kiosks as they leave the dining room where they can easily input thoughts and feedback on their dining experience. These kiosks introduce a new level of customer service to Dominican Village. With the ability to quickly click on a smiley face, frown, or in-between expressions, guests can share direct input on the food quality they are served. There is also an option to leave a comment for the staff. The Happy or Not kiosk gives patrons the “dignity and privacy to not
offend the receiving end of a complaint.” It’s a chance for residents and guests to have their voices heard. This new form of technology benefits both residents and kitchen staff. Executive Chef Richard of Dominican Village emphasizes the value of direct feedback, which allows the kitchen to adjust accordingly and ensures those at Dominican Village feel heard. “It’s about a healthy experience and not just providing nutrition,” President Eric Kalt of the Village says. He agrees that feedback is beneficial to ensure the comfort of guests on a daily basis. Loved ones can take comfort in knowing their family members and friends at the assisted living community have a direct way to advocate for themselves and their nutrition by way of the kiosks. If a patron particularly enjoys their meal, he or she can leave a smiley face to let the staff know their hard work is appreciated. In turn, if a meal is not up to standards staff will be alerted, and can then work hard to meet the satisfaction level of those residing at Dominican Village. The satisfaction kiosks are a great example of technology working to better the service industry and its patrons of all ages! n
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