Self Serve Debit Payment Machines

I always hated the idea of swapping money for tokens. It’s convenient for the businesses (such as amusement parks or casinos), because all the money is being poured into very few transaction points, and is easier to monitor and safeguard (it also hides the exorbitant prices and/or makes you more liberal with spending, but that is another issue).

However there are times when it would be nice to be given the option to use a token system, such as speeding up everyday transactions.

Ever go out with a group of friends to a restaurant, and then split the bill? You end up taking turns paying with credit or debit cards at the end of meal, which is a longer process than it has to be. You also tie up the server for a good chunk of time, much to the chagrin of other customers.

I propose a system where self-serve debit machines are placed at every table in the restaurant (or stationed at a few accessible areas), which customers can use at any time. Here they can make a payment of whatever denomination they want, and are issued a token for the amount. You can then hand the server the token, which would be as good as cash — the server can issue change as well.

If you are good with math you could guesstimate how much you’ll be paying in advance, or just wait for the bill and do a transaction then. Would be as easy as using an ATM machine.

Currently wireless portable debit machines are expensive ($2,000 and up, plus monthly cellular rates), and most restaurants only keep a few on hand. If they stationed a bunch of wired devices at tables, or set up a few kiosks, it would be very cost-effective.

Other places these self-serve machines would be handy: In advance placement of drive-thru windows, long lines at restaurants/theaters/grocery stores, in advance of toll booths, etc. Any place where you are typically waiting on others to complete payment transactions.

I believe this system would excel in restaurants. Customers have some idle time waiting for food or the bill, allowing patrons the option to have a form of payment ready has much appeal. It also frees up the server immensely.

Other banking ideas: smart ATM’s and PIN numbers, double-sided cards, paperless receipts, DuckTales piggy bank, all-in-one-card, beer subscriptions, and a currency design for the blind.