tl;dr
This case study explains how we helped a FoodTech Startup (the Client) replace its outdated, vendor-based system with a scalable, custom-built platform.
1. Before the overhaul: Bottlenecks and dependency
The Client’s model – preparing and delivering meals for partner restaurants – relied on handling high order volumes from multiple third-party aggregators.
Key Problems with their Legacy System:
- Investor Roadblock: Investors required the Client to control its own tech stack before funding.
- Poor UX: The system was clunky, with an outdated interface.
- Example: Staff had to manually tweak mouse settings just to scroll input fields faster.
- Manual Order Entry: Kitchens relied on multiple tablets. Staff copied orders by hand into the system – a 2019-era workaround before AI could automate the task.
We were brought in to build a custom solution from scratch.
2. The overhaul: Building a custom, scalable system
Approach shift: Instead of bending operations to fit software, the new system would adapt to the business.
2.1 Methodology
- Agile (Scrum) was used for fast iteration.
- The first version was tested live within 1.5 months.
2.2 Tech Stack
Component | Technology | Purpose |
Backend | Java, Spring, MySQL, Hibernate | Core services: kitchens, orders, state management |
Frontend | React.js, TypeScript, Redux, Styled Components | Internal panels, KDS, responsive interfaces |
Real-time Features | Pusher.js | Real-time order updates for kitchens |
3. Smart Kitchen OS: New system components
We built a connected system to replace manual workflows. This became the Client’s Smart Kitchen Operating System.
Application | Purpose and Impact |
Hub | Backend for processing orders from third-party aggregators |
CCP (Call Center Panel) | Call center panel for entering orders directly, replacing manual transcription |
KDS (Kitchen Display System) | Wall-mounted kitchen screens to display orders and mark them as ready/issued |
Kitchen Mgmt | Core internal tool to manage kitchens, menus, and settings |
Menu Mgmt | Interface for restaurants to edit and publish their own menus |
Lead Platform | Tool to score and manage prospects using domain-specific rules |
Payments | checkout.com integration for payment processing |
Legal Docs | SLA generation integrated with DocuSign |
Other Tools | Integrations with handsontable and Calendly |
4. Outcomes: Independence and growth
- On-Time Delivery: Agile workflows kept the project on schedule. The Client’s tech leadership confirmed satisfaction.
- Full Ownership: The custom system ended reliance on external vendors, clearing the way for funding.
- Better Operations: Bug reports dropped across similar modernization efforts, showing measurable technical improvement.
Contents
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