An efficient and well-managed queue is one of the quickest and most cost-effective ways a business can increase operational efficiencies and squeeze additional revenues from existing real estate. Queue management – the process of efficiently moving customers in, through, and out of waiting lines – is quickly becoming an essential element of best practices in many industries because of its proven ability to reduce customer walk-aways, increase revenues per square foot, stimulate impulse sales, and enhance the overall customer experience.

Linear vs. Virtual Queuing
There are 2 basic queuing principles that are commonly used throughout business. Linear queuing consists of customers physically standing in lines formed with stanchions, such as our Beltrac 3000 retractable belt post. Utilizing the “first come, first served” service rule, linear queues can feature multiple lines such as is typically found in grocery stores or single-lines such as is found in most banks and financial institutions. Linear queuing strategies ensure the fastest possible service by reducing the time wasted between each customer being served, thus are traditionally used where service processes are fairly short.

To enhance the effectiveness of linear queuing solutions, an electronic queuing system such as Lavi Industries’ QtracCF Call Forward system can be used to improve customer flow even further. This state-of-the-art wireless system is field-proven to increase service efficiency by as much as 35%, thus decreasing wait times. Additionally, QtracCF’s powerful media capabilities keep customers informed and entertained, reducing perceived wait times and further enhancing the customer experience.

The second queuing principle, Virtual queuing, allows customers to wait for a service without actually standing in a physical line. Utilizing electronic queuing systems such as Lavi’s QtracVR Virtual Queuing system, customers register for service through a device such as a kiosk or ticket printer. They are then free to engage in “active waiting” such as browsing or shopping in the environment, watching media, or just relaxing as they wait for their name or ticket number to be called. Virtual queuing is well suited to environments with longer service times such as Healthcare, but is also used in hospitality and food service.

If They See It They Will Come
Signage and way-finding is often overlooked when planning a queuing strategy, yet it can have a tremendous impact on overall customer flow. Clearly marking queue entrances is paramount to establishing a consistent and accurate flow of customers.

Large banner signs attached to tall Beltrac posts can clearly mark entrances and make it easy to indentify service types. Sublimated belts can be used within an overall color-coded design theme to reinforce the way-finding strategy. And post-top or post-front signage can help control queue access, reinforce a color strategy, and complement way-finding.

Your Queues Will Pay For Themselves
One of a store’s greatest incremental revenue potential exists right at checkout in the queue. Utilizing existing Beltrac 3000 stanchions, NeXtrac In-line Merchandising solutions create a profit center within the existing floor space of the queue. Retail customers claim an immediate increase in incremental revenue after installing a NeXtrac system – by as much as 400%!

Additionally, merchandising in the queue keeps customers occupied while they wait, dramatically reducing perceived wait times, increasing good will and enhancing the customer experience.

However, NeXtrac is more than just a Retail solution. Other industries such as Transportation and Hospitality utilize NeXtrac in-line tables to offer customers an opportunity to fill out bag tags or paperwork before approaching a service agent. And all industries benefit by NeXtrac’s powerful in-line branding and advertising capabilities.

A Custom Solution for Your Unique Needs
With more than 30 years experience in designing queuing solutions for transportation facilities, convention centers, financial institutions, stadiums and arenas, entertainment venues and retail stores, Lavi Industries’ staff of queuing experts can propose options and customizations for a queue management solution that fits your exact situation.