When creating a service like DoorDash, you need to understand that a site and an app are just tools. First of all, you need to decide on a business model option:

Aggregator app

This business model works as a marketplace: a web platform where restaurants can specify menus and prices, and users can compare them and place an order right away. The restaurant handles food preparation and delivery. An app acts as a bulletin board and financial intermediary. It accepts payment from a user and transfers it to a restaurant.

These applications account for the majority of the market. The most popular aggregators are Grubhub and Just Eat. This app consists of two parts: for the user and the partner restaurant.

App with logistics support

Similar to aggregator apps, it allows shoppers to order food at different pizzerias, restaurants, cafes and helps with food delivery. New services work according to a simple scheme:

1) a client makes an order using an application
2) an order is sent to a restaurant
3) a restaurant prepares food and hands it over to a freelance courier
4) a courier takes an order to the client's doorstep.
This business model is used by Uber Eats, Postmates, and DoorDash.

Launching such an application requires the same efforts as developing an aggregator application, plus creating functionality for couriers and their interactions with restaurants and customers: order acceptance, real-time chat, location tracking, financial calculations, and more.

Cloud kitchen

This scheme assumes working with kitchens that work on online delivery. They take orders online, prepare food, and ship it to the delivery address. Such web services also have coolly branded couriers. When creating such an application, you need to develop not only online service, but also restaurant equipment and hire the staff.

DoorDash business model

DoorDash is an app with logistics support. It has become a great solution for connecting people with the best dishes in their cities. They not only empower local businesses, but they also succeed in job creation, opening up new employment opportunities.

DoorDash workflow

DoorDash users select the food they want from the menu and restaurant app list. The search includes many features, all making it easy to find what you are looking for. Users pay for their order, which is then received by DoorDash and sent to the corresponding restaurant, which prepares the food. The courier then completes the delivery process.

Couriers receive a delivery notification that provides details, such as distance and direction. They can accept or reject the order. Couriers do their best to shorten the delivery time. Clients may or may not tip couriers, which is 100% their choice. DoorDash has its own drivers called "dashers."

The company promises its customers a better experience, better prices, and efficiency. Restaurants don't have to worry about scheduling delivery logistics and are able to reach a wider audience. DoorDash also offers its consumers free pick-up options to save money and add a more convenient choice if the restaurant or shop is nearby.

What will your delivery model be?

Do you want to have a fleet of cars, drones, and scooters? Will taxi drivers and independent couriers do? Many cafes and restaurants deliver food on their own. Use a unique approach to attract such partners.