The Nation's #1 Food Service Advisor to Museums, Botanic Gardens, Zoos, Aquariums & Historic Homes!
As representatives of Manask and Associates, IHS consultants assists cultural institution clients with operational consulting and strategic planning for their visitor cafe, restaurant, catering, special events, facility rentals, gift stores and vending operations.
Food Service Evaluation & Needs Assessment

Review the client’s current food service operation, contract (if outsourced) and services. IHS evaluates purchasing practices, staffing, merchandising, business plans, menus, room service, food production and financial statements. We also provide quantitative evaluations and recommendations that will improve visitor and guest satisfaction and/or client financial results.
Self-Operation vs. Outsourcing

Assist and guide the client through a comprehensive review of the service requirements and financial goals. IHS will present the best value solution, identifying advantages, disadvantages and recommendations to sustain long term food service goals and objectives.
Strategic Master Planning

Beginning with a comprehensive food service evaluation and needs assessment, create a strategic master plan that documents a systemic process in which an organization prioritizes resources to achieve its vision for the future. The strategic master plan focuses on food service programming, space planning, capital cost estimates, technology and sustainability. We also assist the client in the implementation of the strategic master plan.
Request for Proposal (RFP) Development, Evaluation & Contract Negotiations

Develop and administer comprehensive RFP’s for selecting the right food service management partner. IHS’ RFP administration provides document development, bidder qualification, distribution, bidder conferences and site surveys, and proposal evaluation. IHS negotiates “win-win” partnerships between the client and food service provider. IHS focuses on increased contractor accountability, evaluation of contractor fees and compensation and establishment of performance based incentive agreements. We audit contract compliance for the life of the agreement.
Food Service Planning & Design

Provide the client with food service concept development, programming and design for expansion, renovation or building a new facility. IHS collaborates with the client’s architect, as part of the design team, providing food service related expertise based on industry standards and trends throughout the design process.
Point-of-Sale (POS) & Information Technology Solutions

Review the client’s current POS solution and information technology needs. IHS provides technology strategic planning, hardware and software recommendations, management reporting, data mining, cashless systems and return on investment analysis.
Market Research & Customer Satisfaction

Using intercept and direct customer survey techniques, assist the client in learning more about visitor and guest satisfaction and provide feedback on using the information to improve sales, participation, satisfaction and financial performance. |