Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) prototypes let you push the limits of speed and convenience as you test new ways to enhance the customer experience. But embarking on a prototype project comes with inherent risks, from logistical hurdles and branding concerns to overstretched budgets.
So how can you increase your chances for a successful prototype—one like Jack in the Box’s CRAVED? This new model not only hit the market on time, on budget, and on brand but also exceeded expectations for efficiency and customer satisfaction, drawing plenty of franchisee attention as well.
In the following, we’ll explain five key components to a successful QSR prototype project. More specifically, you’ll get a solid understanding of how an expert in QSR project management can help turn your innovative ideas into operational triumphs.
1. Understand the shifting priorities of your customers before you design
The success of any QSR prototype begins well before the design phase. You want reliable market intel to drive your innovative designs. This is where seeking advice and insights from a consultant experienced in the QSR space can prove extremely helpful.

“Your conceptual plans should reflect what’s happening in your market,” says Erich Springinsguth, VP, Construction Management. “How are customer priorities shifting? For example, is there a clear uptick in demand for to-go and drive-through? If so, you want to design accordingly.”
Key steps include:
- Conducting market research to pinpoint trends and customer expectations, as well as establish site feasibility
- Developing a preliminary budget to ensure your project is financially viable
- Involving your stakeholders early to align on priorities and gather valuable insights
2. Validate your designs before you build
Prototypes often look impressive on paper. But having expert support to validate your innovative designs for constructability and functionality is critical to your project’s success.
For instance, Springinsguth says, “We sometimes see materials specified that are too costly, have long lead times, or even have a poor performance record. In those cases, our job is to recommend alternatives that meet the same goals.”
Key steps include:
- Confirming viability of systems and layouts (e.g., KDS system, menu board layout, drive-through efficiency)
- Evaluating whether the prototype can be built within a reasonable timeframe
- Identifying finishes and materials that could slow down the construction process
- Analyzing high-cost items to prevent budget issues down the line
3. Select the right contractors and partners
Once your prototype designs are finalized, you need to select contractors with the right experience. Ideally, you want a centralized project manager well-versed in the QSR space to oversee the process. Also, keep in mind that regional knowledge goes a long way toward smooth project implementation.
In fact, Springinsguth says, “Having project management with local expertise can be a game-changer. When you have an expert who knows what contractors to trust in your market, it can eliminate a lot of uncertainty and headaches.”
Key steps include:
- Issuing RFPs to identify qualified contractors
- Conducting pre-construction meetings to set clear expectations
- Establishing a communication plan to manage updates and resolve challenges promptly
4. Manage the spider web of relationships
Building a QSR prototype involves coordinating multiple stakeholders, from contractors to franchisees to corporate teams. That experienced project manager described in No. 3 should also have the ability to skillfully handle all those stakeholders.
“If you can’t rely on a single point of contact to navigate—and coordinate—the spider web of relationships in these projects, the complex nature of QSR projects can become overwhelming,” says Springinsguth.
On top of that, having a reliable project manager on site is equally important. “You want boots on the ground being your representative and your project watchdog. That helps get issues cleared up quickly and keeps the project moving ahead.”
Key steps include:
- Monitoring progress to avoid delays and ensure high standards for construction
- Resolving unforeseen site-specific challenges
- Coordinating installations for critical components like HVAC systems, kitchen equipment, and signage
5. Ensure your prototype stays on brand
A prototype by definition will depart from certain established norms. But that doesn’t mean your brand standards should be compromised. After all, every element of the design—from signage to interior finishes—affects how customers perceive your brand. That’s a big reason to leverage the support of a project management expert that’s well-experienced in safeguarding QSR branding specs.
“You want a partner who is essentially wearing your hat and acting like they’re your brand. In fact, over time, a really great partner should come to know brand specs better than the brand owners themselves,” says Springinsguth.
Key steps include:
- Identifying and confirming agreed-upon branding specs
- Conducting on-site validations to ensure prototype is on brand
- Addressing potential deviations quickly to keep project on track
Capitalize on the profound opportunity of your QSR prototype
In today’s fast-moving QSR industry, prototypes are essential for meeting evolving customer expectations. But the path from innovative concept to operational success requires strategic insights, careful planning, and precise execution.
If you’re looking to build a QSR prototype, be sure to reach out to Big Red Rooster Flow to start a discussion. With project management experts that bring 20+ years of experience in the QSR arena, we understand the unique challenges—and exciting opportunities—of your industry.
Learn more about how Big Red Rooster Flow has helped other brands scale up!
