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GDS, OTA and Meta: What's the difference? | HotelMinder - 2 views

www.hotelminder.com/asearch-what-is-the-difference
shared by sbaut010 on 28 Jan 19 - No Cached
  • GDS, OTA and Meta: What’s the difference?
    • ansonj55
      ansonj55 on 28 Jan 19
       
      The article covers the topics discussed in this week's topics related to Global Distribution Systems (GDS) and Online Travel Agency (OTA). It goes in detail regarding the difference and benefits of each. The landscape of the traveling industry changed in the late 1900s with the introduction of the GDS from the airline industry. Although costly, hotels are able to provide unsold rooms at a cheaper rate in order to secure bookings. Similarly, OTAs have gained popularity with the rise of use and reliance of the internet. Most beneficial of a OTA is more visibility for the hotel, since they invest a significant amount of capital in advertising. Whether a hotel is deciding whether or not to invest in a GDS or OTA, it is important to do a cost benefit analysis in order to determine which may be more beneficial to the property.
  • how can they help your hotel gain more online visibility and sell more rooms?
  • Hotels usually sell their rooms for 30% cheaper on GDS
  • ...26 more annotations...
  • GDS is a rather costly selling channel that mainly allows the sale of rooms in larger quantities to bigger companies (for corporate guests) or travel agencies (leisure travellers). Thus, small independent hotels usually do not need GDS.
    • ansonj55
      ansonj55 on 28 Jan 19
       
      GDS is costly so it is not really beneficial for smaller, independent hotels.
  • With the rise of the internet, many websites began selling rooms without the need for human interaction. These sites very quickly gained important market share,
  • Metasearch engines are becoming important in the travel industry
  • We do encourage hotels to use OTA to be more visible online
  • OTA’s invest a lot in online marketing
  • Rather than trying to compete with them, it would be better to see them as another selling distribution channel instead.
  • many different accommodation options at one glance
  • developed metasearch engine tools.
  • With travellers using the internet more than ever to search and book hotels
  • Increasing your online hotel visibility can be done in many ways.
  • hey usually do many different searches and visit several websites.
  • GDS: Global Distribution Systems
  • OTAs: Online Travel Agencies
  • GDS stands for “Global Distribution System”
  • Travel agencies use GDS to get real-time availability, and preferred rates on flight tickets, hotel rooms and car rentals all over the world as it allows them to be very reactive when asked for a quote.
  • OTA stands for "Online Travel Agency"
  • They were first created by airline companies during the 1950’s to broaden hotel and car rental businesses by enabling automated transactions between travel service providers and travel agencies (traditional and online).
  • The three biggest GDS systems are: Amadeus, Sabre and Galileo (now owned by Travelport)
  • real-time availability
  • Central Reservation Services (CRS), such as Sabre, allow hotels to sell their rooms to all GDS simultaneously. However, it is up to the hotel whether to connect with only one or two GDS directly, without the need for a CRS. The good news is that some channel managers are also able to connect with GDS systems.
  • The most popular example is Booking.com, although Expedia (for corporate guests) and Hostelworld (for more economical accommodation options) are also well-known.
    • sbaut010
      sbaut010 on 03 Feb 20
       
      GDS has become an industry of its own with its own markets.
  • Your hotel can usually be listed on an OTA free of charge by adding your hotel photos, descriptions, rooms, rates, etc. You can then choose how many rooms you’d like to sell through the OTA. The availability you’d like to sell as well as the room rate is your decision, and although appearing on the OTA is free, you will have to pay a commission of approximately 15% to 20% every time you get a booking.
    • sbaut010
      sbaut010 on 03 Feb 20
       
      Through this system OTA, the middleman, will always take a form of commission.
  • Although they produce rather time-consuming work as you need to log into each of their extranets to update daily availability and rates, you can very easily connect an OTA to a channel manager to automate, or at least greatly facilitate these tasks.
  • They were created shortly after OTAs and display the current rates of many different hotels in a given destination.
  • Today, OTA’s are a must, and although metasearch engines are slightly more technical to manage, they can also be an attractive selling channel to consider.
  • For small independent hotels, GDS is usually too costly to be considered.
  • duyingli on 31 Jan 20
     
    This article introduces GDS, OTA and Meta in a short space. GDS stands for Global Distribution System, GDS is a rather costly selling channel that mainly allows the sale of rooms in larger quantities to bigger companies. Small independent hotels usually do not need GDS. OTA stands for Online Travel Agency. meta stands for Metasearch Engines. For small hotels, the cost of GDS is high and it is generally difficult to adopt. OTA and meta are two methods worth considering.
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REVENTION POS - 0 views

revention.com/...r-Growing-Fast-Food-Specialist restaurant Car changed their POS system and it has helped to save time track drivers ensure orders are processed in a timely manner. Before this would go unseen opportunities be missed. When customer delivery the an option deliver receive digital receipt
shared by kingleo7 on 05 Jun 17 - No Cached
  • CARS features delivery service though - and it’s a critical part of their business.  That turned out to be a deciding factor in choosing a new POS system from Revention.       Rich shared some of his reasons for choosing Revention:  "They have great delivery management capability and tools to track the drivers, as well as track the orders.   When orders come in , those get pushed to different drivers cellphones.   A driver might have two or three orders, and the automatic feature saves time by not having to manually enter them, plus it gives the driver the ability to easily call the customer if needed, with just one tap on the screen.”   
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Let's Talk About Disruptive Travel Technology | TTS - 0 views

www.tts.com/...t-disruptive-travel-technology
shared by carlatj on 11 May 21 - No Cached
  • There is plenty of media buzz about start-up companies like Airbnb and Uber. These two start-ups are among a growing number of technology-driven service providers that are changing the nature of leisure and corporate travel.
  • Airbnb
  • From the travel industry perspective, Uber and Airbnb remove travellers from the regular “inventory” of hotel rooms and car rentals. From the oversight perspective, these services are being scrutinized to determine whether they violate various safety, insurance, tax, pricing, and liability laws.
  • carlatj on 11 May 21
     
    A quick look at the ways Airbnb and Uber are disrupting the structure of lodging and traveling. From the oversight perspective, these services are being scrutinized to determine whether they violate various safety, insurance, tax, pricing, and liability laws. The peer-to-peer (P2P) is already making major disruption in the industry by sharing of resources like sharing a car and/or a rented house.
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Is Travel Booking Ready to Fully Embrace Artificial Intelligence? - 1 views

innotechtoday.com/mbrace-artificial-intelligence
shared by anonymous on 01 Jun 21 - No Cached
  • Conventional wisdom has been that planning travel, whether for leisure or business, is still too personal and confusing for artificial intelligence (AI) to replace the travel shopping experience.
  • Answers may lie in Natural Language Processing (NLP). NLP is a subfield of artificial intelligence focused on the processing and analysis of both spoken and written languages. An NLP application could provide the mechanism for planning and booking a full travel experience. Only with exceptions and errors being sent to an experienced travel agent for analysis and discussion.
  • With NLP’s prediction modeling capabilities, the conversational chatbot could inspire a unique experience during the travel planning process.
  • ...1 more annotation...
  • As NLP better understands the requirements and dependencies of travelers, a solution to book a complete trip with your voice assistant will become available.
  • anonymous on 01 Jun 21
     
    Artificial Intelligence is not widely used for booking travel with multiple complexities such as a hotel, car rental and activities however this is becoming more of a possibility with the advancements of Natural Language Processing (NPL). Over the past year there has been major advancements with NPL due to the pandemic and when combining NPL technology with other AI such as chatbots or voice assistants, these systems become more powerful and will be able to assist in planning more complex travel. These systems can also help a travel agent with more complex bookings by gathering the information needed such as date, locations and points of interest.
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What is Global Distribution System (GDS)? - Guide For New Travel Agencies - 0 views

colorwhistle.com/gds-travel-agency-guide gds travel system tech hospitality training agents
shared by swhit149 on 17 Mar 21 - No Cached
  • Many travel agents around the world are using the Global Distribution System (GDS) as their major booking channels
  • significant growth of the travel industry.
  • s the brain of the travel industry.
  • ...15 more annotations...
  • provides real-time information to companies such as airlines, hotels, car rental and travel agencies.
  • can find the availability of hotel rooms, flight seats or cars on behalf of their clients and book through the same GDS.
  • When a traveler requests information from a travel company, the agent will find the most accurate and cost-effective itinerary.
  • Travel companies are charged every time they access the GDS or they can buy a particular software offered by the GDS on a yearly basis
  • The airline industry created the first GDS in the 1960s to track flight schedules, availability and prices
  • They were used by the airline industry to automate the booking system, but, later travel agents were also given access
  • Amadeus
  • Travelport
  • Sabre
  • Effective in attracting international travelers24/7 access to inventoryEnables business models such as retail travel agency and OTA (Online Travel Agency)Offer consumers increased pricing transparencyTravel agents can get a global platform with a strong market penetrationProvide best rates to your customers which no other system can providePlace travel services to many clients without affecting your marketing budget
  • To use a GDS, you have to be a professional travel agent. For that, you must have a proper industry ID such as an ARC (Airlines Reporting Corporation) or IATA (International Air Transport Association) number.
  • Some airlines will not allow you to issue tickets even if you have a full IATA license.
  • they may sell it to you for $150-$160/year (contact the GDS provider to know the exact amount). The software will allow you to reserve tickets on any airlines.
  • A corporate travel agent who books on behalf of corporate clients or an individual working at a corporation who needs to book flight tickets for all their employeesComplex itinerary agents who have steady clients with multiple travel plansHigh volume booking of air-only travel
  • While changes will continue to impact the future growth of GDS, there will definitely be a role for them.
  • swhit149 on 17 Mar 21
     
    This article thoroughly explains how GDS was brought into the airline industry and how a travel agent may get access with the proper training. GDS systems will not be going anywhere I do feel as if it will only improve on helping those that use for travel. As the article states its goal is to impact growth for the future!
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The $28 billion opportunity for hotels | PhocusWire - 0 views

www.phocuswire.com/billion-opportunity-for-hotels cross sell upsell
shared by anonymous on 12 Sep 20 - No Cached
  • Ancillary bookings represent a significant opportunity for hotels to add revenue while increasing guest engagement. The airline industry adopted the practice of cross-selling and up-selling trip extras more than a decade ago with impactful results.  How can hotels do the same and best complete their guests' travel experience by offering products beyond hotel rooms?
  • This article will share some of the findings of the new white paper, which show that the majority of business travelers surveyed are very interested in purchasing either on-site or off-site extras. The research also identifies business traveler segments and details the preferences on when, where, and what extras business travelers are interested in buying.
  • business travelers are receptive to offers that will make booking their trip easier.
  • ...7 more annotations...
  • Hotels that participated in the white paper cited reasons why they do not currently offer ancillary services. Many talked about resources, including a lack of technology to streamline ancillary offerings for both on-site and off-site trip extras. With many hotels having their staff and management doing multiple jobs, hotel management is reluctant to add another task to management’s plate. This highlights the need for digital ancillary technology to address these valid concerns and reduce such effort while simultaneously scaling the operation.
  • managers are focused on perfecting the on-site process, instead of branching out and offering new services to differentiate their brand from their competitors.
  • Hotels, both large chains and independent boutiques, can learn from other companies in the travel sector who have successfully implemented an ancillary sales strategy.  Airlines were quick to offer ancillary services more than a decade ago. Now these non-core services such as priority booking, baggage fees and car rentals make up an estimated US$28 billion in revenue annually for the top ten airlines. This trained travelers to  purchase travel add-on services during checkout, and at other cross-sell merchandising points such as confirmation emails.
  • ancillaries that increase productivity provide value.
  • Trip extras that increase productivity include wifi access, early check-in/ late check out to continue working between meetings and travel. More than 70% of business traveler respondents indicated they are interested in purchasing more than core hotel products such as on-site dining, retail sundries and transportation options
  • Business travelers surveyed were most interested in purchasing off property local dining (36%), access to fitness/wellness activities (32%), and tickets to live shows/ events (31%), while in destination or on the day of service.
  • An ancillary strategy that is managed and implemented, with constant communication at the individual properties, can offer a consistent guest experience across the brand. Off-site ancillary offerings are opportunities for hotels to access more wallet-share for the business traveler’s trip. Offering car rentals, or restaurant reservations through strategic partnerships and additional loyalty points add revenue streams to the hotel, boosting profits without increasing ADR.
  • anonymous on 12 Sep 20
     
    The article describes how hotels have been late in adopting the cross-selling and up-selling trip extras that airlines have been so successful with over the last decade or so. It also summarizes the results of research done by Phocuswright with iSeatz which found that the majority of business travelers surveyed are interested in purchasing additional on-site extras and off-site extras. The research also found that the hotels that were surveyed cite reasons such as a lack of technology and stretched resources at hotel level as barriers to implementation.
  • anonymous on 12 Sep 20
     
    The author fails to recognize that the e-commerce platforms developed by the airlines over the past decade have been focused on selling unbundled extras, whereas until recently the hotel e-commerce platforms have been very focused on offering the customer bundled packages and only had limited capability for up-selling and cross-selling.
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Global distribution system (GDS): Complete guide for hotels - SiteMinder - 1 views

www.siteminder.com/...global-distribution-system
shared by ovila009 on 14 Sep 19 - No Cached
  • More than 600,000 travel agents plug into the GDS every day on behalf of companies to book flights, hotels, car rentals and destination activities.
  • Despite the growth of third party online travel agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com and Expedia, the GDS remains the number one way to promote your hotel to the corporate travel market globally.
  • A GDS is a worldwide conduit between travel bookers and suppliers, such as hotels and other accommodation providers.
  • ...62 more annotations...
  • The history of global distribution systems dates back to the 1960s when a more sophisticated method was needed to keep track of flight schedules, availability, and prices
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 14 Sep 19
       
      This is how GDS started back in the day in order to keep track of things however nowadays it is used for so much more.
  • Hoteliers are always looking at ways to increase their reach to attract more customers, increase revenue, and make a profit
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 14 Sep 19
       
      Hence why GDS is so beneficial for hotel companies and other industries.
  • As soon as a reservation is made on the GDS or an online booking website, the channel manager instantly reduces inventory across all channels, including the hotel’s own website, and automatically delivers the reservation details back into the PMS or central reservation system (CRS).
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 14 Sep 19
       
      Reservations are now made quick and easy with this system. It gives customers a pleasant experience.
  • There are several major global distribution systems that house and process the majority of data from hotels, airlines, and other distributors. These include Amadeus, Sabre, Galileo, Worldspan, Apollo, and Pegasus.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 14 Sep 19
       
      Here we can see some examples of GDSs.
  • The Apollo reservation system was used by United Airlines until 2012, when it switched to SHARES, a system used by its former Continental Airlines subsidiary.
  • Sabre is seen as a pioneer for online travel agencies, corporate booking tools, revenue management, and web and mobile itinerary tools, to name a few.
  • Galileo traces its roots back to 1971 when United Airlines created its first computerised central reservation system
  • created by other airline groups in an attempt to gain market share in the computer reservation system market.
  • Worldspan is a Travelport platform, and is the technology leader in web-based travel eCommerce, offering solutions for all facets of travel business online. As a leading GDS, Worldspan provides travel distribution, technologies and services for thousands of travel companies worldwide, including travel agencies, corporations, travel suppliers and travel websites.
  • Amadeus has the biggest global footprint of any of the GDSs, with a potential reach to millions of guests.
  • Abacus was founded in 1988 and became a leading provider of travel solutions and services in the Asia Pacific region.
  • Pegasus Solutions pioneered the hospitality reservations industry.
  • The best systems will connect your hotel directly to the world’s most prominent GDSs
  • Using a software provider to tap into the GDS saves a lot of money and time.
  • Essentially, the GDS can increase hotel bookings and revenue by placing hotels on more ‘supermarket shelves’ globally.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 14 Sep 19
       
      It gives hotels the ability to expand and increase the number of customers they get by exposing them more internationally.
  • there are still more bookings being generated through the GDS than through hotel websites.
  • The GDS is indeed a unique and direct marketing tool for your hotel.
  • booked quickly and efficiently.
  • The GDS can help hotel managers uncover new market segments to promote their products to
  • More travel agents are relying on the GDS to find the best places for their clients to stay.
  • the GDS improves search positioning and displays your brand messaging during the search and booking process
  • Hotels generate more revenue through a GDS because it places the hotel’s information, availability and rates in prominent locations where it is easy for travel agents to find.
  • you can market all of your rooms to all of your distribution channels at one time.
  • Your GDS should help you maximise your bookings and increase your revenue
  • the capability for the GDS to integrate completely with your existing PMS, online booking engine and channel manager.
  • help you make the best decisions regarding your marketing strategy and distribution plan.
  • discover and tap into the most powerful and motivated market segments.
  • trial the GDS for a short time and measure results before continuing your subscription.
  • Because cruise travellers rely heavily on travel agents for their trip arrangements, it’s highly likely any hotel bookings will also be made through this channel.
  • A GDS is a worldwide conduit between travel bookers and suppliers, such as hotels and other accommodation providers
  • Cruises tend to rely on more conventional channels like travel agents to reach and convert guests.
  • With the cruise industry currently in a state of growth, it represents a chance for hotels to get a slice of the revenue.
  • It appears travel agents are driving most of this success, with 70% of cruise bookings made via this channel.
  • Cruises do all the hard work to book their guests but often they will arrive a day or two early or depart a day or two after their cruise, booking at hotels for the extra time.
  • Most prominent is your hotel description
  • you eliminate the frustration of signing up with each individual platform, and you can connect to all of the top providers without paying the individual fees.
  • The GDS is often used to tap into the corporate travel market because it has the ability to present hotels, flights, and car rentals in one simple interface which is convenient.
  • Live rates and availability are sent from a hotel’s property management system (PMS) directly to the GDS and online booking websites via a channel manager.
  • What are the major GDS systems?
  • here are several major global distribution systems that house and process the majority of data from hotels, airlines, and other distributors. These include Amadeus, Sabre, Galileo, Worldspan, Apollo, and Pegasus.
  • There are several major global distribution systems that house and process the majority of data from hotels, airlines, and other distributors. These include Amadeus, Sabre, Galileo, Worldspan, Apollo, and Pegasus.
  • Amadeus GDS
  • Sabre GDS
  • Galileo GDS
  • Worldspan GDS
  • Apollo GDS
  • Abacus GDS
  • Pegasus GDS
  • – like the ones mentioned above – so you don’t have to worry about signing up to each one
  • individually.
  • In one fell swoop you can access all the retail and traditional travel agents you want:
  • There are a few specifications which will greatly aid successful GDS connectivity: Being centrally located Being located close to an airport Room capacity of more than 20 rooms Lodgings that are set up for corporate markets and not affected by seasons
  • Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re using the GDS to its full potential:
  • 1. Pooled inventory
  • 2. Commission-free structure
  • 3. Integration capabilities
  • 4. Comprehensive reporting
  • 5. Ability to target specific markets
  • 6. No lengthy contracts
  • 7. Simple and affordable connection
  • Essentially, the GDS can increase hotel bookings and revenue by placing hotels on more ‘supermarket shelves’ globally. This approach is particularly effective at capturing international corporate travellers. You can gain lucrative international corporate business, particularly if you’re near a major airport gateway or close to government or commercial enterprises.
    • yoevelyn
      yoevelyn on 30 Jan 21
       
      This article goes into how to optimize the use of GDS for a hotel operation and the author touched on a point we have discussed in the class before: how to market your local hotel to an international audience. The author suggests that adding your property to a GDS can be a cost-effective way to bring those international business travelers, specially if your hotel is near an airport.
  • The number of bookings generated through a GDS generally outpaces that of direct bookings
  • anonymous on 14 Sep 19
     
    This article goes in depth into GDS. It explains the concept of the GDS is and how eaxctly it works. It also gives examples of some major GDSs. It talks about the benefits of using GDS in hotels.
  • gaston326 on 18 Sep 19
     
    The global distribution system in the hospitality industry is beyond vital in the act of keeping the ball rolling. GDS provides live products and offers to travelers across the globe. Whats really amazing about GDS is that live availability and rates are transferred through a channel manager directly to online booking sites. This allows guests to acquire the best rates the soonest as opposed to waiting to call a hotel or resort to see what they have and at what price.
  • xiaoyuzhang on 18 Sep 20
     
    This article shows us everything we need to know about Hotel GDS. It includes GDS in the hotel industry, GDS work way in travel, seven major GDS systems, the way to access leading GDSs with GDS software, GDS conditions of use, benefits of connecting hotel to the GDS, and how to use the GDS to capture cruise travel bookings at hotel.
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What is a hotel global distribution system (GDS)? (+3 types) - 0 views

www.cloudbeds.com/...hotel-gds hotel hospitality tech travel mobile business software technology
shared by amajo017 on 08 Jul 22 - No Cached
  • A hotel GDS gives your hotel access and visibility to thousands of travel agents and corporate bookers
  • A global distribution system can integrate with your Property Management System (PMS)
  • As part of a GDS hotel booking system, your hotel will be exposed to a more targeted, professional travel community that alternative property types don’t have access to.
  • ...14 more annotations...
  • First, you should know that GDS services are only available for authorized users who are licensed and registered and not accessible for use by the general public.
  • For the widest visibility and revenue-earning potential, consider connecting your PMS to a GDS distribution platform that will allow you to connect to several big-name hotel GDS providers and manage your account on one system.
  • In terms of hotel GDS providers, there are three main giants that dominate the market:
  • Cloudbeds’ simple solution connects you to a system that connects to the big three GDSs mentioned above, allowing you to manage all your GDS accounts from one platform.
  • Still, GDSs also have the power and functionality to send their inventory to OTAs.
  • A global distribution system (GDS) is one of the best ways for hoteliers to promote their hotel in the global corporate travel market. It’s a critical component of a well-rounded distribution strategy and helps hotel management increase occupancy within the lucrative corporate travel segment.
  • A global distribution system is an online system that delivers real-time hotel, airline, train, and car rental inventory, room rates, discounts, and more to travel agents and other businesses.
  • As part of a GDS hotel booking system, your property will be exposed to a more targeted,
  • GDS hotel booking system allows companies, such as travel agencies and corporate bookers, to book travel on behalf of others.
  • Public rates are visible and bookable to all agencies in a GDS and are subject to commissions paid to the booking agency. Common public rates are the Best Available Rate (BAR), Corporate (COR), and Government (GOV). Negotiated rates are only visible to companies with which you have a special agreement. The authorized agencies that can book these rates must enter an agreed-upon GDS hotel code called a Rate Access Code. Since negotiated rates are based on net rates, they are not subject to commissions.
  • Amadeus has been connecting travel providers to travel sellers since 1987. They serve over 770,000 hotels in 190+ countries worldwide and have a global team of 19,000 employees. Aside from hotels, Amadeus also services airlines, airport operators, rail operators, ground handlers, car rental companies & transfer providers, insurance provider groups, and cruise lines & ferries
    • amajo017
      amajo017 on 09 Jul 23
       
      This is the one my work uses!
  • Sabre has been part of the birth of airline automation since the 1960s. Today, they have almost 400,000 travel agents in their global travel marketplace. Their technology products include travel-focused mobile apps, check-in kiosks, airline and hotel reservation networks, ticket agent terminals, aircraft & crew scheduling systems, revenue management solutions, and more.
  • (Galileo, Worldspan, Apollo) – With origins leading back to 1971, Travelport encompasses the Galileo, Worldspan, and Apollo GDS systems. Their worldwide travel retail platform services travel agencies and suppliers with distribution, technology, and payment solutions, among others. They have partnerships with hotel chains and boutique hotels to develop targeted promotions and flexible rate models to gain greater visibility in their markets. 
  • The GDS system will likely evolve in the coming years rather than become obsolete, so it’s worthwhile connecting to one if you want to attract more business travelers and make gains in the corporate travel industry.
  • tvill22 on 08 Jul 22
     
    This article talks about the GDS and how it can help attract clients in particular business clients. It starts by giving all the benefits of the GDS. It then goes on to explain how the GDS works and who can access it. It ends by talking about the types of GDS systems and how they will evolve and stay relevant in the future.
  • amajo017 on 09 Jul 23
     
    This article describes the different types of GDS programs that hotels might use. The one my hotel uses is in here as well! It outlines why they are important, how they are used, and the massive reach that they have. Most companies use GDS to streamline their efficiency so it is interesting to read why it is so effective.
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What Brain-Computer Interfaces Could Mean for the Future of Work - 0 views

hbr.org/...ld-mean-for-the-future-of-work interfaces future
shared by shineal on 13 Jan 23 - No Cached
  • Brain computer interfaces (BCIs) are slowly moving into the mass market. In the next few years, we might be able to control our PowerPoint presentation or Excel files using only our brains. And companies may want to use BCI technology to monitor the attention levels and mental states of their employees
  • imagine if you could prepare your next presentation using only your thoughts. These scenarios might soon become a reality thanks to the development of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs).
  • I expect to see a growing number of professionals leveraging BCI tools to improve their performance at work. For example, your BCI could detect that your attention level is too low compared with the importance of a given meeting or task and trigger an alert. It could also adapt the lighting of your office based on how stressed you are, or prevent you from using your company car if drowsiness is detected.
  • ...6 more annotations...
  • A Toronto-based startup called “Muse” has developed a sensing headband that gives real-time information about what’s going on in your brain.
  • In the next few years, we might be able to control our PowerPoint presentation or Excel files using only our brains. Some prototypes can translate brain activity into text or instructions for a computer, and in theory, as the technology improves, we’ll see people using BCIs to write memos or reports at work.
  • Experts believe that around “15-30% of individuals are inherently not able to produce brain signals robust enough to operate a BCI.” Obviously, this situation can lead to wrong results and ultimately bad decisions from companies. BCIs still have a long way to go, and much improvement is needed.
  • Despite these promising results, some experts, such as Theodore Zanto, a director of the UCSF neuroscience program, say that while BCIs based on EEG scans can determine a user’s attention levels, they are as of yet still incapable of differentiating what the user is actually focused on.
  • Researchers are also experimenting with “passthoughts” as an alternative to passwords. Soon, we might log into our various devices and platforms using our thoughts. As described in this IEEE Spectrum article, “When we perform mental tasks like picturing a shape or singing a song in our heads, our brains generate unique neuronal electrical signals. A billion people could mentally hum the same song and no two brain-wave patterns generated by that task would be alike. An electroencephalograph (EEG) would read those brain waves using noninvasive electrodes that record the signals. The unique patterns can be used like a password or biometric identification.”
  • BCIs aren’t a perfect technology — there’s no telling what sort of mistakes or mishaps we’ll encounter as companies and individuals begin to use these devices in the real-world. What’s more, BCIs — like any technology — can be hacked. Hackers can access a BCI headband and create/send manipulated EEG data. A hacker could also intercept and alter all data transmitted by your BCI. It’s possible that a hacker could steal your “passthoughts” user credentials and interact with your devices (laptop, car, etc.). These risks can directly impact our physical integrity. Brain data could also be stolen to be used against you for extortion purposes. The potential for serious abuse is significant.
  • shineal on 13 Jan 23
     
    This article is on Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) and what the future of the work environment could be. Based on the information published, employers would have the ability to leverage brain activities to effect greater productivity in the workplace. However, since BCIs are capable of detecting the mental state and thoughts of employees, there are many privacy and ethical issues that will certainly be derived from the use of these types of technologies.
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5 ways AI and robots will affect future travel | Flash Pack - 1 views

www.flashpack.com/...bots-will-affect-future-travel AI travel agent hospitality hotel software
shared by llibe010 on 08 Nov 22 - No Cached
  • We accepted driverless trains very easily – London’s DLR, for example, has been trundling around without drivers since 1987. Driverless cars we’ve been more sceptical about, but seem to have made peace with their inevitability (aids for human drivers like lane assist are pretty much standard in every new car). But if either of those concepts blows your mind and/or has you feeling a little uneasy in the pant department, just wait until you board a pilotless aeroplane! That’ll feel completely fine, right? But it will almost certainly happen – it kind of does now, to an extent
  • The Vdara Hotel & Spa in Las Vegas uses two robot ‘butlers’ to deliver room service. This Chinese company claims to have created an AI receptionist. Even hotel mega-giants Hilton experimented with a Watson-powered robot concierge called Connie
  • an omnipresent army of artificially intelligent travel agents who can find the perfect holiday for you, powered by deep learning and a vast collective knowledge of everything travel-related except what it feels like to get sunburnt
  • ...3 more annotations...
  • recognition, be it facial or cornea or fingerprint, could soon be your way through passport control: it’s already being trialled at Changi airport in Singapore
  • You might have heard of smart cities. Super-connected, intelligently-planned urban conurbations aimed at making life an absolute dream, both now and in the future, through the use of technology
  • And while ‘more planes’ doesn’t sound very environmentally friendly, that AI technology can be used to make all kinds of transport more efficient. Fewer empty planes and trains, less stacking over airports, more intelligent planning of onboard catering (no more fish dishes = less food waste IMO – who eats them?) – it all helps the goal of green tourism
  • llibe010 on 08 Nov 22
     
    The article discusses 5 potential use cases of artificial intelligence with a focus on travel and hospitality. The first example is of driverless vehicles and airplanes and the second speaks of AI receptionists and robot concierges. Other examples include AI-powered travel agents that use deep learning and create customized holiday packages for guests in the future. Biometric recognition as a replacement for passports has also been discussed along with using AI for green tourism. In general, the article highlights the role of AI technologies in improving travel efficiency and sustainability while acknowledging that there are pitfalls and that these technologies still require years of development.
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5 benefits of global distribution systems for hotels | Hotel Management - 0 views

www.hotelmanagement.net/...istribution-systems-for-hotels
shared by cborregomarsh on 22 Jan 20 - No Cached
  • The main purpose of a global distribution system is to help travel agents search for hotel accommodations that fit a set of criteria.
  • It is a business-to-business system used by companies to stay on top of real-time data about the availability of travel arrangements, such as hotel rooms, to sell them to customers planning to travel
  • The airline industry was searching for a way to automate the travel reservation and booking process for travel agents so that they could more efficiently access information about flight schedules, fares and seat availability.
  • ...9 more annotations...
  • It was an invention of the airline industry that was first used in the 1960s.
  • There are several major benefits when it comes to global distribution systems within the hotel industry
  • Increased Access to Travel Agents for More Bookings
  • More Efficient Booking Process
  • travel agents are able to bundle travel deals for the same trip
  • Less Expensive than Marketing
  • While there is an initial fee in setting up a global distribution system for a hotel, this is likely much less than a hotel chain would have to invest in marketing costs to see the same increase in bookings
  • many of the leading distribution systems are capable of complete integration with the property-management system, which helps manage the daily operational tasks of a hotel
  • Three major systems used today for hotel bookings are Sabre, Amadeus and Travelport
  • Luis Valdivia on 22 Jan 20
     
    In this article, the author looks at the benefits that hotels derive from implementing global distribution systems (GDS). some of such benefits include an efficient booking process that alleviates administrative burdens in booking rooms. Besides, GDS is less expensive than marketing, and facilitates the integration of property-management systems with the daily operational tasks of a business. Thus, despite its challenges, it is a vital technology in hotels today.
  • cborregomarsh on 22 May 23
     
    GDS is a technology used to help travel agents find real time data of availability of travel arrangements to be sold to customers planning travel. GDS allows agents to access information on pricing, benefit packages, availability of rooms, rental cars, etc. Access to this technology offers many benefits to travel agents, as well as helping to create a more efficient booking process.
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Robot Delivery Service Coco Opens With Austin Restaurants - Eater Austin - 0 views

austin.eater.com/...rvice-opens-austin-restaurants
shared by georgemacintyre on 27 Feb 22 - No Cached
  • Los Angeles-based robot delivery service Coco made its way into Austin this month.
  • Vaquero Taquero, Arpeggio Grill, Bambo Bistro, Clay Pit, DeSano Pizzeria, Tuk Tuk Thai, and Aviator Pizza.
  • robots, which will be controlled remotely, will make deliveries in the South Lamar, South Congress, general South Austin, downtown, North, North Loop, and Domain areas.
  • ...1 more annotation...
  • food delivery service company Refraction AI debuted its robots with Southside Flying Pizza.
  • georgemacintyre on 27 Feb 22
     
    The company Coco uses robots to deliver food to customers. In the world we live in today food delivery is bigger than ever. Coco uses robot delivery rather than using humans driving cars. This is a relatively new technology and is something that has just recently been adopted by restaurants in Austin, TX.
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Digital Transformation in the Hospitality Industry | Boston Hospitality Review - 0 views

www.bu.edu/...on-in-the-hospitality-industry hospitality software technology
shared by mmoutsatsos on 31 Jan 22 - No Cached
  • We are now experiencing the fourth industrial revolution, a period marked by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, virtual reality, the Internet of Things, and fifth-generation wireless technology.
  • The recent Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated this digital transformation resulting in a widening technology-mediated customer experience.
  • Service robots are “system-based autonomous and adaptable interfaces that interact, communicate, and deliver service to an organization’s customer” (Wirtz et al., 2018, p. 109).
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  • The core interactive and communicative features differentiate service robots from other self-service machines, which result in unprecedented human-technology interactions in the hospitality industry.
  • he service production process, disinfection robots, which emit UV light to kill viruses and bacteria, were announced to be used in airports and hotels worldwide to ensure a safe and clean environment (Greg, 2020).
  • The robots drive around autonomously in high-touch public areas and select rooms at the hotel, removing all airborne viruses and bacteria. As an extension of the hotel’s “SmartStaySafety” operation, the use of UVD robots not only provides a safe environment but also assures guests that they are being protected. 
  • In
  • the service delivery process, service robots assist frontline staff in a sequence of service encounters. For instance, the robot concierges assist employees with guest greetings upon arrival, transporting luggage, guiding guests, and delivering room service.
  • service robots can effectively respond and interact with guests, even in multiple languages. 
  • While robots make significant contributions to operational efficiency, they also raise concerns.
  • Service robots are still novel in hospitality. Their ability to cope with unexpected, dynamic conditions remains to be fully explored.
  • If guests do not follow the pre-set route, service robots may fail to respond, which can lead to a service failure.
  • AI-powered online chatbots are also employed to provide swift answers to customers via live chats.
  • provide customers with immediate responses 24 hours a day, significantly improving customer engagement.
  • customers believed VR simulations would be the best tool for hospitality operators to create a compelling customer experience.
  • VR can make a huge difference in a customer’s booking stage.
  • Through the digitally accommodated environment, customers can have a much clearer sense of what they are expecting, thus attracting more prospective customers.
  • VR application is the virtual tour video,
  • This not only offers customers a chance to experience prior to booking, but also allows the hospitality business to benefit from the “try before you buy” marketing strategy. 
  • Unlike VR, which puts customers in a completely virtual environment, augmented reality (AR) is about enhancing the physical environment and the experience of exploring one’s surroundings in real-time.
  • The current applications of AR in hospitality are largely for entertainment and practical purposes.
  • One example is the Best Western Hotel Group’s experiment with AR and Disney stars.
  • Another application of AR is indoor navigation
  • Internet of Things (IoT) refers to “an ever-growing network of connected devices which communicate with a central server as well as with each other” (Car et al., 2019, p. 163).
  • IoT provides integrated services, such as automated door locks, light switches, electric blinds, and voice-assistant devices, which are connected on a network.
  • These allow customers to control or monitor their devices from a central server, such as a mobile phone or a tablet. 
  • For example, customers can use their mobile phones for self-check-in and check-out.
  • Rooms also become “smart” with the help of IoT, which is also called the “connected room” at Hilton hotels.
  • Customers can also use voice-controlled assistants, for example, the Amazon Alexa, to control those in-room features, and order food or drinks, which can be delivered by autonomous delivery robots.
  • In addition, devices, such as luggage carts with GPS function and sensors in the parking lot, can help customers to locate their luggage and cars. Thus, IoT helps improve service processes and makes customer experiences smoother.
  • It obtains real-time data through continuous tracking from various devices, as well as a collection of customer information that was previously unavailable, such as preferences, routines, and habits (Marek & Woźniczka, 2017).
  • there are several emerging issues that hospitality practitioners must take into consideration when embracing digital technologies, which include security, privacy, costs, and human touch in hospitality. 
  • IoT with locational information can send real-time personalized recommendations to customers based on their stored preferences.
  • IoT can collect customers’ preferences for in-room features, and the data can then be used to customize the room settings for their next stay.
  • Security is a fundamental issue in digital transformation in any industry, including hospitality.
  • Also, t
  • he broad connection of various devices brings vulnerability to digital networks.
  • Thus,
  • hospitality managers must prepare for security implications of digital transformation, which can be accomplished by adopting high-security technologies to reduce software vulnerabilities, building resources to mitigate risk of cyber-attacks, and training employees on cyber-attack prevention.
  • Privacy is another important factor as highly personalized services rely on storing and tracking customer preferences and behavior through digital technologies.
  • a transparent, strict, and clear privacy policy clarifying what data can be collected and shared, and who can own the data, is necessary.
  • Another challenge is associated with the high costs of employing these digital technologies.
  • For small businesses, using digital technologies in their daily operations may require significant upfront investments.
  • it is becoming critical for hospitality businesses to consider what digital technologies would most benefit their business.
  • for small hospitality businesses, they need to prioritize what works best for them when adopting digital technologies.
  • the paradox between digital convenience and in-person experience.
  • hospitality, particularly in fine dining restaurants, customer-staff interaction is highly valued by customers.
  • it is important for hospitality businesses to strike a balance between digital convenience and in-person experiences
  • Key considerations include judging what services cannot be replaced by digital tools, preservation of the choice for customers to decide between digital or human services to maximize customer experience, and incorporation of interactive digital features in the process.
  • mmoutsatsos on 31 Jan 22
     
    This article talks about the current applications of 3 innovative technologies and how they are used in the hospitality industry.
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What is a Global Distribution System (GDS)? 2022 Guide for Hotels - 3 views

hoteltechreport.com/gds GDS Hospitality Hotel Industry
shared by naxiang2001 on 17 Sep 20 - No Cached
  • What is a Global Distribution System (GDS)? 2020 Guide for Hotels
  • The History of the GDS
  • a GDS functions as a middleman between a travel agent and a hotel’s (or airline’s) central reservation system. Travel agents can see real-time rates and inventory for a given hotel via the GDS, though the GDS doesn’t actually hold its own inventory.
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  • What are the Most Popular Global Distribution Systems?
  • Besides the time savings, the GDS allows travel agents to tap into reservation systems for a world of travel providers.
  • Did you know you could book a flight, tour operator, car rental or hotel room in real-time via electronic GDS systems since the 1960s? You may be thinking, “hmm… online travel agencies like Expedia and Booking.com aren’t that old, are they?” But years before the OTAs gained prominence, global distribution systems provided real-time access to hotel and flight inventory for travel agent service providers across the world. 
  • Does the GDS still serve a purpose when travelers can easily book directly with the airline or hotel? In many cases, yes, the GDS still delivers value, especially for airlines and corporate travel companies. Airlines still distribute their inventory to OTAs via the GDS, and corporate travel planners continue to use the GDS to find corporate rates.
  • The GDS industry has come a long way since the 60s; while Sabre is still a major player, several GDS companies operate today. The major global distribution systems for travel reservations include: Amadeus is the world’s largest GDS, accounting for about 40% of GDS transactions, and it’s especially popular in Europe. Though many of these reservations are for airfare, it’s still a powerful tool for hotels, with over 600,000 hotels connected. Sabre is the second-largest GDS, accounting for about 35% of travel agency bookings. Around 175,000 hotels are connected to Sabre, but its portfolio in North America is larger than its competitors. Travelport GDS  owns systems called Galileo, Worldspan, and Apollo. Travelsky is a state-run GDS in China.
  • With decades of history and an enormous user base of travel agents, using the GDS can be a great way to expand your hotel’s marketing and distribution strategy. But the GDS doesn’t necessarily provide value to every hotel; if you’re wondering how to use the GDS or why to add it as a distribution channel, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons for your individual hotel.
  • For hotels, airlines, and the like, the GDS offers massive marketing power.
  • No one GDS can be called the “best” travel service provider, since they all provide similar functionality and have their own unique differences.
  • travel comp
  • American Airlines was the first company, in partnership with IBM, to implement an electronic reservation system for their reservations agents to use. This new technology, called the Semi-Automated Business Research Environment (SABRE), allowed American Airlines to greatly expand their reservations team beyond the number of people who could huddle around the paper booking files.
  • No one GDS can be called the “best” travel service provider, since they all provide similar functionality and have their own unique differences.
  • Today you can book not only airfare and hotels via the GDS, but also rental cars, cruises, rail tickets, and tours.
  • hotels would need to undertake huge marketing efforts in order to be seen by travel agents. The GDS effectively democratized this process, with chain hotels getting the same visibility on the GDS as independent hotels.
  • In 2006 the volume of internet reservations exceeded GDS reservations for the first time,
  • lwu014 on 17 Sep 20
     
    This arctic is about what is a global Distribution System, history of the GDS, how does a GDS work and what benefits GDS offer.
  • ...2 more comments...
  • carlatj on 24 May 21
     
    A brief history of the GDS gives us a glimpse of the important this technology which as been around for over 50 yrs. Although it has evolved, the consumer has evolved with it but the basic idea still prevail and still very much in use.
  • anonymous on 29 May 21
     
    This article gives a complete description of what the GDS is and its history. It goes over how the GDS works, the benefits of using it, and whether the GDS has a role in the future of global distribution.
  • cdamo003 on 25 Jan 22
     
    A GDS or Global distribution system can come in handy for many different purposes. Some of these companies such as Expedia and Travelocity are know ones in the United States. It is important to weight pros and cons when deciding who to book with when choosing a hotel or an airlines especially since there are so many options. Depending on how you book especially when bundling with a GDS you could get a great deal.
  • naxiang2001 on 28 Mar 22
     
    This article evaluates the past and current roles of GDS in the travel and tourism industry. It is clear that the GDS has adapted and changed with the times and now is able to do even more than at its initial conception. However, as the article pointed out the all the functions of the GDS it is clear that OTA's ad websites are also able to provide a lot of these same functions. We discussed this week whether the GDS system is still currently a relevant system and most agreed that it is. However, as we look to the future it will be interesting to see what evolutions the GDS has yet to go through and how it will attempt to remain relevant in the ever changing tourism market.
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It meeting convention/banquet - 0 views

doubledutch.me/flock.html
shared by Michael Anthony on 17 Nov 12 - No Cached
  • Michael Anthony on 17 Nov 12
     
    Now you can manage and check into convetions/banquets from your living room couch, airport, bed, car, or anywhere that you bring your cell phone. With ONE mobile App that can store up to 12 diff meetings you can manage everything from checking in to managing the guest list, RSVP, layout, slide shows, etc. All from your cell phone, no phone calls necessary, no having to talk to anyone even your own guests. This would save a great deal of time, effort, and energy.
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Restaurant Replaces Menus and More with iPad - 0 views

www.cultofmac.com/...laces-menus-and-more-with-ipad
shared by anonymous on 16 Jan 13 - No Cached
  • anonymous on 16 Jan 13
     
    This article shows how technology has advanced in this modern world. From a server ordering your food at a restaurant, to having an ipad that list the menu of the restaurant. It is very practical in the sense that, instead of printing all the time for the different changes that the owner's make when listing the menu, it can be done directly on the ipad with the touch of a button. The guests at "Do Restaurant at the View" place their orders through the touch screen, and then the server only comes when something is requested or to serve the food to the guests. The owner of the restaurant stated "The coolest thing about it is that there are no more wrinkled menus with ketchup on it or pizza sauce on it," says Christian Ruffin. I very much agree with this statement because I have been to restaurants where some menu's were not to clean. On the other hand, I believe that it also changes the atmosphere of the place in a good way, for example, the workers can use the ipad and its applications to change the lighting of the room and also play different songs depending on the mood of the customer's. The customer's order everything using the application, and any request that they need, a server comes to see what they need. With the touch of the ipad, customer's can also notify the valet parking to let them know their status and how far they are from finishing their meals in order for the valet people to know iwhen to bring the car to them. The payment is also done on the ipad. Now, my question is that: will they leave any tips for the server that just brought the food? since everything is being done through the ipad, I want to know how different it is from using a paper menu and the service that is delivered using the ipad instead. I think it is a good idea for restaurants to have something different, because so many people nowadays use devices and software that it only make people adapt to what they are already used to. I don't think all restaurants should do that, because not
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TripAdvisor launches eco-friendly hotel program - 0 views

hotelmarketing.com/...hes_eco_friendly_hotel_program
shared by Omar Shalaby on 10 Jun 13 - No Cached
  • Omar Shalaby on 10 Jun 13
     
    TripAdvisor just launched the new TripAdvisor GreenLeaders program, which ranks hotels across the U.S. according to their engagement in environmentally-friendly practices like linen and towel re-use, recycling and composting, solar panel and electric car charging station implementation, and green roofing.
  • Omar Shalaby on 10 Jun 13
     
    With TripAdvisor's launch of the new GreenLeaders program, it will help hoteliers as well as restaurants and other businesses increase their Green initiative commitment. I know for the Florida Green Lodging Certification, it is a simple, yet tedious, form to complete, covering many aspects that can help reduce waste of products, energy, and gasses. Thanks to a bill that was passed in the not-so-distant past, certain aspects of the government travel requires their selection of lodging and/or meeting facilities to be green. This is in an effort to encourage those changes in order to secure government business, as well as to encourage personal & leisure travel, government or not, to choose green facilities. The more we increase the demand for green properties, the more properties will seek to make the necessary changes and commitment. In addition, the application process changes periodically, increasing the information and steps necessary to become green. Through all of that, we will begin to notice bigger steps to be made to save our resources and our environment. TripAdvisor launching this program will only help in these efforts. Along with increasing efforts, the feedback will be a great tool for use when selecting how to make those changes. Sure, nothing is perfect and you will still have those that prefer the convenience instead of the overall "Save the Earth" way of life, but we will be able to see what is working and what may need to be adjusted a bit.
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Global distribution system integration | Online travel agencies - 0 views

www.frontdeskanywhere.com/gds-ota.php
shared by asweet28 on 05 Jun 13 - No Cached
  • . Increase your room sales and generate more leads by selling your rooms via the Global Distribution Services and Online Travel Agencies.
  • They can nowadays be considered as a travel marketplace used as a single point of access for reserving airline seats, hotel rooms, rental cars, and other travel related items. Major GDS: Amadeus, Sabre, Galileo, Worldspan.
  • Optimizes your online exposure Eliminates the risk of overbooking Pushes instantly all reservations to your PMS
  • asweet28 on 05 Jun 13
     
    This article explains the many positive effects of GDS systems on the hotel industry and further explains how the system is able to continually refresh and monitor itself to help avoid over booking and problems with availability and room rates.

How to get the most out of the Global Distribution System (GDS) - 0 views

started by Marisa Chauvet on 07 Jun 13 no follow-up yet
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