Case Study:

A fast$-$food restaurant chain is experiencing long wait times at its drive$-$thru lanes during peak hours. Customers are frustrated with the slow service, leading to complaints and loss of business. The restaurant management wants to improve efficiency and reduce wait times to enhance customer satisfaction.

Which of the following operations management techniques would be most effective for the restaurant chain to reduce drive$-$thru wait times?

A$)$ Implementing lean manufacturing principles

B$)$ Introducing automated order$-$taking kiosks

C$)$ Offering discounts during off$-$peak hours to distribute demand

D$)$ Increasing the number of staff during peak hours