Enhancements in ChefTec and ChefTec Plus Version 4 include the ability to attach photographs, diagrams, logos or video files to inventory items as well as recipes. Users can also graph pricing trends for specific inventory items to instantly show fluctuations in costs.
Improvements in the user interface in this release include the revolutionary Quick Update feature that makes data entry easier than ever, and a simpler method of moving from one screen to another. A built-in ChefTec Scheduler allows users to schedule events in the program so the software will prompt users to perform vital functions. In addition, sales data can be scheduled to import automatically into ChefTec Plus from point-of-sales systems, making it simple to manage this function during off hours.

Another invaluable addition is an online tutorial that has been added to the Help system built into ChefTec and ChefTec Plus. This feature is designed to give first time users step-by-step instructions in setting up the software, making it simple to master the basics in ChefTec Software. 

Other features include the flexibility to switch units globally�entering the change once to update units system wide�and a hot link direct from ChefTec�s Nutritional Analysis screen to the USDA website.  �Since its release in 1997 ChefTec and its sister product, ChefTec Plus, have set the standard for foodservice software in a Windows 98/95/NT/2000 environment,� commented Brian Bennett, president and co-founder of Culinary Software Services. �We have always worked at providing users with a core of powerful cost control functionality, and then offer them the best innovations possible, designed to meet the specific needs of the food and beverage business. And from independent restaurateurs to an increasing number of national and international chains, the feedback from our customers is that ChefTec is fulfilling their every need when it comes to budget and inventory decisions.�

ChefTec PDA works with the Palm III from 3Com® and allows users to take their personal digital assistant throughout their operation, entering inventory counts, and then instantly upload the physical counts into ChefTec on their desktop.

Earlier this year the company released BevTec, a program designed to improve profit margins for the beverage industry by tracking fluctuating costs and directly comparing vendors� prices. BevTec includes over 1100 inventory items specific to bar operations, plus 1400 drink recipes that can be modified and copied.  ChefTec won the Innovator�s Award for Technology from the California Restaurant Association in 1998 and 1999, and is installed in diverse foodservice operation around the world. Marriott International is currently implementing ChefTec in over 400 of its units. The Chartwells branch of the Compass organization has ChefTec in place in over 150 of its North American operations. Other recent installations include Carlson Restaurants Worldwide, parent company to T.G.I. Friday�s, Caesar�s Atlantic City, the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort, and the Southern California School of Culinary Arts.

About Culinary Software Services Inc.
Founded in 1991, Culinary Software Services makes ChefTec and ChefTec Plus software for the foodservice industry.  In 1998, the company released ChefTec Plus, a complete back-of-the-house package that contains the comprehensive inventory control, recipe and menu costing, and nutritional analysis functionality of ChefTec, combined with more sophisticated features, primarily the ability to interface with POS systems and perpetual inventory.