While the kiosks are new software, much of fast food's "automation" has really just been operational design changes. You used to sit at a counter and order a d

While the kiosks are new software, much of fast food's "automation" has really just been operational design changes. You used to sit at a counter and order a drink. Now they give you a cup and you fill it yourself—that may seem silly, but it was a huge improvement for the industry. You used to hand your credit card to the cashier. Now you slide it yourself. It's also something that seems insignificant, but it saves a few seconds on each interaction and is one less task the cashier has to perform.