Ever asked the question, how does an online ordering system work? In a nutshell, an online ordering system works by providing a website or mobile app where customers can view a restaurants menu and place an order. These orders are then received by the restaurant using an app.
These days there are 100’s of online ordering systems available. From the marketplaces like Uber Eats, Swiggy, Zomato, to the standalone systems like Cloudwaitress.
Each of these systems have their own selling points and work slightly differently.
Marketplace Ordering Systems
Marketplace systems fundamentally provide a single website or mobile app that connects hundreds of different restaurants all on one platform.
They enable hungry customers to easily order from any of the restaurants on their platform. Marketplaces also streamline the design across all their stores which means limited branding opportunity for the restaurant.
Standalone Ordering Systems
Standalone systems take a different approach by allowing restaurants to create their own unique website hosted at any web domain name.
This generally allows for greater branding and customization. Standalone systems tend to be significantly cheaper than marketplaces as the restaurant takes on the responsibility of promoting their online store.
For example, with Cloudwaitress, a restaurant can create their own website and start accepting online orders for free.
From an operational standpoint, these systems help restaurants organize orders more efficiently. Instead of juggling phone calls and handwritten notes, everything is streamlined into a single dashboard or app. This reduces errors, saves staff time, and improves overall workflow.
Customers also benefit from a smoother process. They can browse menus at their convenience, place orders quickly, and often receive instant confirmation.
Some systems even allow for real-time order tracking, which adds a layer of transparency and reliability that customers love.
How does an online ordering system work?
Ultimately, the choice between a marketplace and a standalone system depends on the goals of the restaurant.
Marketplaces can provide visibility to new customers, while standalone systems give restaurants full control over their brand, pricing, and customer relationships. Many successful restaurants even use both strategies together to maximize reach and maintain flexibility.
With Cloudwaitress you don’t have to ask yourself about how to create an online food ordering system, it’s all done for you. Simply sign up and add your branding and menus!
FAQs
What is the difference between a marketplace ordering system and a standalone system?
Marketplaces like Uber Eats or Zomato place your restaurant alongside hundreds of others, limiting your ability to stand out and charging high commissions on every order. A standalone system like Cloudwaitress gives you your own branded website where you control your design, menu, and customer experience. And with Uber Direct integration, you still get access to reliable delivery drivers without relying on expensive marketplaces.
Why should a restaurant consider using a standalone online ordering system?
With a standalone system such as Cloudwaitress, restaurants save money by avoiding heavy marketplace fees and instead keep more profits from each order. Beyond cost savings, Cloudwaitress makes it easy to build your brand and foster loyal customer relationships. Plus, thanks to Uber Direct, you can offer professional, on-demand delivery without hiring drivers or being locked into marketplace commissions.
How does an online ordering systems work for restaurants?
An online ordering system like Cloudwaitress simplifies restaurant operations by centralizing all orders into one dashboard or app. This reduces human error, frees up staff from constant phone calls, and speeds up service. Cloudwaitress also offers real-time order tracking and instant confirmations for customers. With Uber Direct integrated, delivery is handled seamlessly by Uber’s driver network, so you can run a smooth operation without extra overhead.
Can a restaurant use both a marketplace and a standalone ordering system at the same time?
Yes, and many restaurants benefit from doing so. Marketplaces can help attract new customers, but Cloudwaitress ensures you keep those customers coming back through your own branded system. With Uber Direct built in, you can offer the same fast, reliable delivery customers expect from marketplaces—only this time, you control the experience, strengthen your brand, and keep more of the profit.
