process design

Regulations May Restrict Pricing Tactics and Technology

Various technologies now enable retailers to change product pricing in ways that have raised questions about ethics and legality.

Many states have enacted, or are in the process of enacting, legislation to address the use of technology in changing prices. In 2025, over 100 price transparency bills were introduced across 33 states. Several states enacted laws requiring firms to disclose when prices are adjusted using real-time data or algorithms.

Specific pricing tactics include dynamic, algorithmic, and surveillance pricing. Dynamic pricing involves real-time […]

By Ross L. Fink, Ph.D.|2026-05-10T09:47:30+00:00May 10, 2026|Tags: artificial intelligence, dynamic pricing, ethics, inventory management, process design, surge pricing, technology|

PepsiCo Uses AI to Model Possible Facility Changes

PepsiCo is testing AI and “digital twin” technologies before making any physical changes. The company is assessing its effectiveness in simulating, validating and optimizing plant and warehouse facilities.

A digital twin is a real-time virtual model of a physical asset, system or process, which companies use to simulate the effects of possible operational changes or additions. PepsiCo plans to first simulate upgrades to its U.S. facilities, then expand globally.

PepsiCo is partnering with AI chipmaker Nvidia and global industrial technology company Siemens […]

By James Kirby Easterling|2026-02-20T08:20:19+00:00February 20, 2026|Tags: artificial intelligence, logistics, operations, process design, system design, technology|

Tomorrow’s White Castle

White Castle recently opened its first “White Castle of the Future” in Columbus, Ohio.

The prototype restaurant combines technology and design to provide loyal customers, known as “Cravers,” with an improved experience, including changes in technology with Julia, the drive-thru AI ordering system; Flippy the Fry Cook; and ordering kiosks.

Design features include high ceilings, open design, and vibrant colors. Additionally, the outside sign transitions from White Castle during the day to Night Castle after dark, reinforcing its emphasis on night-time orders. […]

By Ross L. Fink, Ph.D.|2025-11-23T09:49:50+00:00November 23, 2025|Tags: artificial intelligence, customer service, efficiency, facility layout, process design, quick serve restaurants, robotics, technology|

House of Prime Rib: Quality, Not Variety

Most restaurants offer a variety of entrees. But the House of Prime Rib gives you only one choice—prime rib.

It has been open since 1949, serving only the one entrée. The House of Prime Rib meticulously selects only the best beef ribs, and prepares them to perfection using a 28-day dry age. The ribs are cooked in salt to ensure that all of the juices and favors are sealed in.

This dedication to producing the finest prime rib has led to success […]

By Ross L. Fink, Ph.D.|2023-10-18T03:54:33+00:00October 18, 2023|Tags: process design, process layout, product design, quality, standardization|