The Serv-Mark might not prove as useful in more fixed restaurant setups, but it would greatly increase the efficiency and the success of service in cafes with ever-shifting seating arrangements. Qiu Wentao's concept earned him an Honorable Mention in the 2013 Red Dot Design Awards as a clever electronic adaptation to the common table numbering system.
When a patron orders his food, he takes a Serv-Mark with him back to his seat and places it on his eating surface. The cylinder displays the numeral in bright yellow, but it also projects it straight up to the ceiling in bold red. When a waitress goes to distribute the meals, she can easily locate the intended customer.
Projected Table Identifiers
Serv-Mark Helps Waiters Find Diners and Distribute Dishes Correctly
Trend Themes
1. Electronic Table Numbering - The Serv-Mark concept introduces a clever electronic adaptation to the common table numbering system, increasing efficiency and success of service in cafes with ever-shifting seating arrangements.
2. Efficient Meal Distribution - The Serv-Mark's projection system helps waitstaff easily locate and distribute meals to the correct customers, improving accuracy and speed in restaurant service.
3. Enhanced Customer Experience - The Serv-Mark's clear display and projection of table numbers creates a more seamless dining experience for patrons, reducing confusion and ensuring timely food delivery.
Industry Implications
1. Restaurant Industry - The Serv-Mark offers disruptive innovation opportunities for the restaurant industry by streamlining table numbering and improving meal distribution processes.
2. Hospitality Industry - The Serv-Mark's electronic table identifiers can enhance the customer experience in hotels and resorts by improving service efficiency and accuracy in dining establishments.
3. Event Management Industry - The Serv-Mark's projection system could be utilized at conferences, banquets, and other events to simplify seating arrangements and facilitate efficient food distribution.