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I think the iPod Touch is too small to be effective as an order taking tool. Maybe something closer to a Nook size. After all, if you're a server and you need to take down kitchen instructions or find a drink fast, a slightly larger device is exponentially more useful. But in terms of weight and price point I think the iPod Touch is perfect.

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Only because it lacks a stylus.

In at least a few places in Aus (Canberra Centre, Melb Airport, Elizabeth St Melb) I've seen ipod touch sized PDA's being used to take down orders at McDonalds.. (including special orders - they got my mcflurry + caramel topping down fine).

Maccas may have a slightly limited menu - but it's still pretty large compared to some restaurants.

McDonald's definitely does have a limited menu and with very limited customizations. I've worked at 17 restaurants (seriously, and I am aware of the jokes which could be made about this). Now imagine working at place where the customer says to you: "I'd like a martini, but dry, with 4 olives, shaken, and can I have Belvedere vodka? And not a chilled glass, please. And for my appetizer I'd like your asparagus soup, but without the croutons. And I'm allergic to garlic, so could I get that steak medium rare with extra crispy fries but without any garlic anywhere near it or I'll probably die? Thanks!" Now try that out on a PDA in real-time with a stylus. I've worked with those PDAs--Micros makes a good percentage of them--and I wasn't too impressed. But I'd like to code something better, on a better device.

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