The restaurant industry is at a tipping point.
Rising costs, labor shortages, and increased competition are all encouraging owners to rethink how they run their businesses.

For many, the solution may lie in technology.

But not just any technology—a unified tech platform like Katalyst OS, which is designed to streamline operations, help manage costs, and enhance operational efficiency.

A Platform Designed by Restaurateurs

Katalyst OS stands out because it was created by industry insiders who understand the challenges firsthand.

Dan Roland, Bill Roland, Cole Dillon, and software entrepreneur Scott Bleczinski co-founded the company to address the inefficiencies they encountered in their own restaurants.

As Dan Roland puts it, Katalyst was not “created in a vacuum.”

“It has been tested and refined in real-world restaurant settings to align with operational needs,” he says.

Katalyst’s purpose is clear: to simplify restaurant operations through integrated tools.

Unified Systems for Streamlined Workflows

Traditionally, restaurants use separate systems for point-of-sale, reservations, inventory, and payment processing.

This fragmented approach can lead to inefficiencies and increased costs.

According to Bill Roland, “Most restaurants use seven or more disconnected systems. Katalyst aims to combine them, potentially saving time and money while providing access to more integrated data.”

User feedback suggests that managing multiple databases can make customer data tracking and decision-making difficult. Katalyst addresses this by consolidating functionality into a single platform. This unified system also reduces the need for multiple vendor relationships, simplifying daily operations.

Real-Time Data to Inform Decisions

A notable feature of Katalyst is its ability to provide real-time operational data.

The platform tracks over 200 key performance indicators (KPIs), offering owners a detailed view of business performance.

These include metrics such as revenue per seat hour, inventory costs, and server productivity.

“Katalyst offers tools to help owners make informed decisions,” explains Cole Dillon. “For example, they can identify which tables perform best or which menu items bring customers back.”

Because it functions as a single database, Katalyst can capture customer data across all touch points, which may offer deeper insights and improved reporting compared to multi-platform setups.

Cost Efficiencies with Centralized Tools

Katalyst is also designed to help restaurants identify areas for cost optimization.

Through a partnership with Fiserv, the platform offers competitive payment processing rates.

By consolidating multiple software systems, Katalyst may also reduce licensing and operational costs. When used effectively, the platform could help restaurants achieve significant savings over time.

According to Scott Bleczinski, “Our clients often report measurable cost reductions. But beyond savings, they also appreciate the operational simplicity and flexibility the system brings.”

Real-Time Updates and System Adaptability

Restaurant owners have noted Katalyst’s ability to adapt in real time.

If a menu item runs out, updates can be pushed across all channels—including in-house menus, online ordering, and third-party delivery platforms.

In contrast to some competitors, Katalyst allows for quicker updates, helping businesses maintain accuracy during service hours.

“Katalyst was developed with the flexibility restaurants need,” says Dan Roland. “It’s intended to support smooth operations, even during unexpected events.”

A Familiar and User-Friendly System

Ease of use is another strength of Katalyst.

Built on Apple iOS, the platform leverages widely used tools like iPads, which can help shorten the learning curve for staff.

The interface is intuitive, supporting efficient onboarding for new hires, which is especially helpful in an industry with high employee turnover.

Servers can customize orders through the modifier system, helping ensure accuracy and improving the customer experience.

Dedicated Support for Restaurant Teams

Katalyst offers more than software—it provides ongoing client support.

Each restaurant is assigned an account manager with experience in the hospitality industry, offering guidance and real-time problem-solving.

“We aim to respond to inquiries quickly,” Cole Dillon says. “We value our client relationships and are committed to helping them through the transition process.”

A Look at What’s Ahead

As restaurants seek more cohesive and efficient management systems, platforms like Katalyst are gaining attention.

With its integrated tools, data insights, and support services, Katalyst is positioned as a resource for operators who want to modernize their approach.

“Katalyst isn’t just software,” Dan Roland notes. “It’s intended as a long-term operational partner for evolving hospitality businesses.”

Published by Drake M.