Background of the Study
Effective management of university canteens is crucial for ensuring food safety, operational efficiency, and student satisfaction. Taraba State University, Jalingo, Jalingo LGA, faces challenges with manual canteen management methods that result in long queues, inefficient inventory management, and inconsistent service quality. The proposed smart canteen management system leverages the Internet of Things (IoT) to automate various aspects of canteen operations. IoT devices, such as sensors and smart cameras, are used to monitor inventory levels, track customer flow, and manage food quality in real time (Adeyemi, 2023; Chinwe, 2024). The system integrates with mobile applications, enabling students to view menu options, place orders, and receive notifications about service updates directly on their smartphones. By providing real-time data on stock levels and customer demand, the platform optimizes inventory management, reduces waste, and ensures timely replenishment of supplies. Furthermore, the system can analyze sales data to forecast demand trends and adjust pricing strategies accordingly. Automated payment integration and digital receipts enhance transparency and reduce the need for cash handling. Despite the advantages, challenges such as network connectivity, data security, and the initial cost of IoT deployment must be addressed. Pilot studies in similar settings have demonstrated that smart canteen systems can significantly improve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. This study aims to evaluate the design, implementation, and performance of the smart canteen management system at Taraba State University, providing a scalable framework for digital transformation in campus food services (Okafor, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Taraba State University currently manages its canteen operations using traditional methods that are inefficient and error‑prone. The lack of automation in inventory management and order processing often leads to long wait times, food wastage, and inconsistent service quality. These issues not only diminish student satisfaction but also increase operational costs. Although a smart canteen management system using IoT offers a promising solution by automating data collection and providing real‑time analytics, its implementation faces significant challenges. Key challenges include ensuring reliable network connectivity across campus, securing IoT devices against cyber threats, and integrating the new system with existing administrative processes. Moreover, resistance from staff and students who are accustomed to conventional methods further impedes adoption. This study seeks to evaluate the performance of a smart canteen management system by comparing its operational metrics with traditional practices and identifying the critical technical and operational barriers. The objective is to propose strategies that improve system reliability, data security, and user acceptance, ultimately optimizing the canteen’s efficiency and enhancing the overall dining experience at the university (Chinwe, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
To design and implement a smart canteen management system using IoT technologies.
To evaluate the system’s performance in terms of inventory management, order processing, and user satisfaction.
To propose strategies for enhancing network reliability and data security.
Research Questions
How does the smart canteen management system improve operational efficiency compared to traditional methods?
What technical challenges affect IoT device connectivity and data security?
Which measures can enhance user acceptance and system integration?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it introduces a smart canteen management system that leverages IoT technology to improve service delivery at Taraba State University. By automating inventory and order management, the system aims to reduce waiting times, minimize wastage, and enhance overall customer satisfaction, thereby contributing to more efficient campus food services (Adeyemi, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to the implementation of a smart canteen management system at Taraba State University, Jalingo, Jalingo LGA.
Definitions of Terms
IoT (Internet of Things): A network of connected devices that collect and exchange data.
Smart Canteen System: A digital platform for automating canteen operations.
Inventory Management: The process of tracking and controlling stock levels.
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