BYU introduced Cougar Dash, a campus food delivery service similar to DoorDash, available through the BYU app and online on the official website, found here.
Brent Craig, managing director for dining services, said that the idea for Cougar Dash stemmed from the concept of keeping food a convenience for their customers.
The delivery system came together with the help of Job Rodriguez, director of support services and Coleman Madsen, general manager of technology for dining services.
When users go to use Cougar Dash through the BYU app, they first choose which dining service they’d like to order from. Users then pick which location they’d like their food dropped off at. There are currently 5 food drop off locations, or "landing zones," found throughout campus:
- In the B2 ASB.
- In the P130A MTC or in the MTC South micro-market.
- In the 1042 SHC Express, left behind the front desk.
- In the 253 UPB express.
- In the 1170 WCCB or the west campus micro market.
Drop off locations are distinguishable with a Cougar Dash sign.
For those worried about the cost, Cougar Dash charges a $1.99 fee, which is automatically waived for those using a meal plan, Madsen said.
There are plans to expand their landing zones, including having one near the Kimball Tower and at the LSB, according to the three professionals.
Multiple dining options are offered for delivery, including Aloha Plate, Cougar Crust, and even the Creamery on Ninth. Craig said the selection available will eventually give users the option for groceries to be picked up for them, not just ready-to-eat foods.
Rodriguez said that they created Cougar Dash with the students in mind. Professionals at the dining services tried to put themselves in the shoes of the student, asking themselves questions like “How big is their fridge? Where do they get their food? How can we help them?,” Rodriguez explained.
Rodriguez added that one of the main goals of Cougar Dash was to allow students to optimize their time with studying or socializing, rather than waiting for food.
Craig said, “if you don't want to stand in line for food, and you want [your food] convenient to your schedule, you can order it,” ahead of time, and have it delivered at a specific place and time.
Professionals at dining services explored several options for a food delivery system, including installing a locker system, robot delivery, and E-bikes, before settling on the fleet of electric carts currently in use.
Madsen said that the creation of Cougar Dash is an extension of the company’s vision of Christ-centered hospitality, and that people should turn to the Cougar Dash website to learn more about the service.