When it comes to AI, there’s a huge amount of opportunity for both multi-unit managers and general managers to save time and work a little smarter.
Most of the scheduling platforms available, whether it’s Fourth, S4labour or any of the other labour tools, already include AI elements that analyse deployment, customer demand and task load. They’re getting better and better at helping managers match labour to the actual requirements of the business rather than relying purely on gut feel.
But beyond scheduling, one of the biggest game changers we’ve seen recently is the use of voice-to-text tools for capturing notes. For multi-unit managers, being able to walk around a site and talk naturally into their phone while ChatGPT, Copilot or Gemini listens and organises everything is a huge time-saver. It can produce a clean summary, highlight actions for them and the site team, and even draft the email ready for review. It takes a lot of the admin weight out of the visit.
The real benefit isn’t only about producing something written as a follow-up; it’s great for capturing thoughts. It means the next time a multi-unit manager visits the site later in the week or the following week, they have an instant reminder of what they noticed, what stood out and what they intended to follow up on.
Multi-unit managers have busy days, and these tools act as a great reminder when we become tired or forgetful. The same approach works brilliantly for general managers, too. After a shift briefing or a management meeting with their AGMs or head chefs, they can capture the discussion, get an instant summary and action list, and avoid the classic “I’ll type this up later” trap. Even if the AI gets most of it right – rather than all – they’re still miles ahead.
If a manager wants something even more accurate for text they intend to email or post, we highly recommend an app called Wispr Flow. It integrates with everything and does an exceptional job of capturing what you meant to say rather than the literal words, filtering out filler language and learning your terminology over time.
For managers juggling multiple sites, teams and conversations, these tools can genuinely remove a huge amount of friction from the day, especially at the end of a busy day, when you then have to type up your notes and send out follow-up emails to people!
