What do people mean when they say you need “systems and processes”? The language we use in our restaurants matters. The Restaurant System makes it clear–there is only one system, so we say “system,” not “systems.” But what about the different tiers within that system? What other terms do we need for operational clarity?

I remember sitting at the computer, searching for definitions of system, process, task, and step. I had already begun to view the restaurant as a single system, but I neede precise terminology for each tier. I quickly realized there were many words to choose from, with a range of definitions for each word. To ensure clarity, I had to establish a structured vocabulary.

The reality is that for any given business, including restauranst, may use different words at each level of its system. However, The Restaurant System defines specific terms for each tier:

• System: The holistic structure of your restaurant, integrating all processes into a single, cohesive framework.
• Process: The interdependent components that make up the system. This is the checklist tier of your restaurant.
• Task: Each process consists of multiple tasks required to execute it. These are the headers on your checklists.
• Step: Each task breaks down into steps necessary for completion. Steps provide detailed instructions for tasks. There is no smaller tier than steps.

Using this standardized language within The Restaurant System creates a shared understanding among you and your employees, enabling better execution and on-going improvement.

What language do you use in your restaurant to gain operational clarity?