How Internet Cafes Are Surviving the WiMax Revolution
Today, internet cafes are one of the most successful businesses anyone can install. At the very least, providing Wi-Fi is a huge drawing point for the average restaurant, cafe or bar. Many internet cafes, however, are still charging for internet, or have basic layout problems that make them just plain inconvenient for the average internet and/or laptop user. With the use of WiMAX internet on the rise, a truly mobile, high speed broadband internet, the average Wi-Fi hotspot should be on the lookout. Users will be able to access the internet from anywhere in the city, regardless of whether or not they are nearby a Wi-Fi router. The technology is similar to using a cell phone, anywhere there’s a signal, users can pick up on it to access the internet. This doesn’t mean the end of the internet cafe, it just means the average corner cafe will have to work a little harder to stay competitive. Here are some of the best ways for internet cafes to survive the WiMAX revolution.
Seating. In many internet cafes finding seating is a big challenge for customers. Many times they end up sharing, or cramming around a tiny little table with 5 or 6 chairs. Make it easy on your clients by providing ample seating and table space.
Lots of Electrical Outlets. Even though people might be able to get high speed internet from anywhere, the problem of finding a place to plug in will always be around in the world of mobile internet technology. A nice place to sit down and order a coffee, drink, or a meal is always appreciated, but to get people hanging around for more than the length of one laptop battery, it’s essential to provide this basic feature. Make outlets obvious and accessible, perhaps even built into the tops of tables, to draw in street traffic.
Free Wi-Fi. When people have their own personal broadband connection there’s absolutely no need to pay for Wi-Fi service. Charging for internet won’t stop WiMAX users from coming in and enjoying the ambiance, but it will stop paying customers from choosing your cafe. That means dropping sales on food and beverage items, and defeats the purpose of being an internet centered business. Instead, offer free Wi-Fi to draw in the larger crowd, and stay competitive longer.
Excellent Service. Ever tried ordering a coffee and pastry from a line, while carrying your computer, then circling an internet cafe like a shark, desperately searching for a place to sit while your coffee grows cold? Well, even if you haven’t, it’s easy to imagine that it’s not a pleasant experience. Providing little luxuries like table service will give all internet users incentive to stop on in, even if they’re already packing mobile broadband capabilities.
Outdoor Seating. What could be better than enjoying the great outdoors, surfing the net, and having a place to plug in? Not too much. Letting your clientele cozy up with a tea and cookies while getting in their internet fix, all while taking in some fresh air is a great way to increase business, and create an atmosphere where providing internet access is not the first priority, but an excellent perk.