November 3, 2011—What’s most important to you when it comes to equipment and the equipment procurement process? School nutrition operators shared their thoughts on this topic in a roundtable discussion with research and consulting firm Y-Pulse, LLC.
Participants cited a desire for equipment that is versatile enough for a variety of uses and that adds cost efficiency to their operations. Operators explained that when handling equipment purchases, they seek to do business with manufacturer equipment representatives who have a detailed understanding of school nutrition operations, are honest, can answer how the equipment will serve their needs and who will take the time to provide in-depth training and service after the sale. They explained that proactive support eliminates the underuse of sophisticated equipment.
Operators identified the first 18 months as an important period in building and establishing good habits in using new equipment, establishing who they should call for specific needs with the equipment and learning how to resolve installation- and performance-related issues.
School nutrition operators participating in Y-Pulse’s roundtable noted that because very few plans are executed exactly as planned when it comes to equipping new facilities and remodeling, they appreciate working with consultants who are collaborative and work together to review and adjust design specifications throughout the process. Participants also expressed a desire for more assistance in extending their existing platforms without remodeling or remaking their spaces and indicated an interest in access to advanced specialty equipment.
For more information about Y-Pulse and its research , visit www.ypulse.org.
Y-Pulse, LLC