Consistency is defined as doing the same thing, in the same way over and over. Consistency in a successful food service operation ensures that customers are receiving the same quality product time after time. Generating a consistent revenue from repeat customers is the goal of any successful business owner. If I had the situation arise where an employee refused to abide by standardized recipes I would first have a sit down with said individual. The sit down would be to ensure that there is a shared understanding as to why the recipes are in place: ensuring we provide consistent products to customers, limit waste, and ensure profitability. After the sit down I would then escalate to a write up(warning), and continue to escalate from there up to the termination of the employee. Some signs that a standardized recipe isn't being followed are: inconsistent product taste, portion size, and point of sales alerts. A manager can ensure that the right equipment is available for measurements and also watch production to ensure standardized recipes are used consistently to prepare menu items.
Why is consistency of such great importance to a successful food operation? Consistency is important because people expect great quality food every time, they walk in. When the customer eats at your establishment is because they are putting their trust in the fact that the food will be good, if the quality of the food, customer service, and cleanliness isn't consistent people will start to lose trust. Without consistency there can't be stability.