AI for Pubs - The delicate Mix of pints, people & Pixels
Introduction
In our tech-obsessed world, it’s hard not to marvel at the latest digital and AI wonders. From apps that let you order a pint without lifting a finger (except to tap your phone, of course) to AI systems that claim to know your favourite drink before you do—technology has firmly set its sights on our beloved pubs.
But here’s the thing: while tapping away on a screen may be convenient, it misses the point of why most of us wander into our local watering holes in the first place.
Digital Ordering
Take the rise of digital ordering systems. Sure, they have their place—like when the bar is three deep, and the bartender looks like they’ve just run a marathon. But the joy of the pub isn’t just about the drink; it’s about the banter with the person pulling your pint, the chance meeting with someone over a shared love of questionable jukebox choices, and the spontaneous cheering that erupts when your team scores.
The digital world may offer efficiency, but it can’t replicate the warm, slightly sticky embrace of the pub. It’s a bit like comparing a microwave meal to your mum’s Sunday roast—convenient but lacking in soul.
Pub Quizzes
And let’s not forget the charm of the occasional pub quiz. Imagine an AI host running the show—no cheeky banter, no questionable pronunciations, just cold, hard facts. Where’s the fun in that? The beauty of these evenings is in the oddball questions, the dubious pronunciations, and the pint-fuelled debates about whether a tomato is really a fruit.
The Importance of the Human Touch
The recent buzz around AI coaching in the workplace, as discussed in Tatiana Bachkirova’s article on the “enshittification” of human coaching, serves as a gentle reminder that not every human touch can be digitized. Just as a virtual coach can’t capture the nuance of a heartfelt conversation, no app can replace the local legend at the bar who knows your drink order and your dog’s name.
At Pub Doctors, we believe in the power of people. Sure, we’ll embrace the tech that makes life easier (who doesn’t appreciate a card reader that doesn’t take five minutes to connect?). But we’ll always champion the human touch that makes pubs the heart of the community.
Conclusion
So next time you’re tempted by the flashy app promising instant service, take a moment. Wander up to the bar, say hello, and revel in the time-honored tradition of good conversation over a great pint. Because in a world of ones and zeros, it’s the stories and laughs we share that make the pub truly irreplaceable.
