Role of Technology to Improve the Effectiveness of University Canteen Systems

Abstract

The university canteen system is an essential part of the campus environment, providing students and staff with a convenient and affordable source of food. However, many universities struggle to maintain efficient and effective canteen systems, leading to long queues, limited food options, and unsatisfactory service. The study seeks to identify the key challenges faced by traditional canteen systems in universities, to explore the potential benefits of using technology in university canteen systems, to analyse existing technologies used in university canteen systems and their effectiveness and to develop a framework that enhance the efficiency and user experience of university canteen systems. The study adopted a positivist research approach, making use of quantitative methods of data collection. The target population was university canteen managers and staff, university staff, and university students in Zimbabwe. In order to improve the performance of canteen systems, the project at hand provided a framework that uses technology to streamline operations, boost menu planning and customization, improve payment alternatives, and provide real-time feedback mechanisms to guarantee customer satisfaction. The study’s findings show that university canteens ought to concentrate on developing a framework based on innovation and technology that places a priority on innovations that boost financial performance, including cashless payment systems because they increase the effectiveness of canteen systems.