In this episode of the Built By Me Podcast, Taina and Mo sit down with David Lafleur, SVP at Cluster POS and a true veteran in the restaurant POS space with over two decades of experience. David shares insights from his journey from building and exiting his first POS business, Volos, to joining Cluster POS and how he's solving real-world restaurant problems with modern, customizable technology.

David discusses the significant evolution in restaurant technology over the past 20 years, highlighting how the newer generation of restaurant owners approach technology differently – they're more tech-savvy, research-oriented, and have higher expectations for their POS systems. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on ROI rather than just monthly costs when investing in restaurant technology, noting that many restaurant owners overlook the potential savings and efficiency gains.

The conversation explores how restaurant technology needs differ between fine dining and fast-casual establishments, with David explaining the challenges of implementing new systems in traditional restaurant environments versus more adaptable quick-service operations. He shares insights on the restaurant industry's remarkable resilience through COVID and economic challenges, noting how restaurants continually adapt and find new solutions.

Looking to the future, David provides fascinating perspectives on how AI is transforming restaurant technology – from predictive sales and inventory management to customer service and staff training. While enthusiastic about AI's potential, he emphasizes that it will enhance rather than replace human elements in the restaurant experience.

Whether you're a restaurant owner looking to optimize operations, a tech enthusiast interested in industry innovations, or an entrepreneur seeking insights on business resilience, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the evolving relationship between restaurants and technology.

Key Topics Discussed:
David's journey from building and exiting Volos POS to joining Cluster POS (00:01:30)
How restaurant tech needs differ between fine dining and fast casual (00:03:30)
The evolution of restaurant owner technology expectations (00:06:00)
Why restaurants should focus on ROI rather than just monthly costs (00:08:30)
The restaurant industry's remarkable resilience through COVID and beyond (00:14:00)
How AI is transforming restaurant operations and POS systems (00:19:30)
The integration vs. building debate in restaurant technology (00:24:00)
David's rapid-fire takes on restaurant tech trends (00:29:00)

Guest Information:
David Lafleur, SVP at Cluster POS
Over 20 years of experience in restaurant POS systems
Previously founded and exited Volos POS in 2020

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Until next time, keep building!