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katya zelinskaya

Will Self-Checkout Obliterate Traditional POS Systems? | Point of Sale News - 1 views

  • Even though the general trend towards self-checkout is positive, many customers are still wary.
  • The temptation to steal from self-checkout terminals is practically absent with the new buzz about the instillation of cameras, laser scanning, and weighted sensors.
  • hese people have an understanding of how they work and know how to check themselves out in the most efficient way possible (many times they check themselves out faster than a cashier).  
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    It is knowledgeable why retailers would be skeptical over self-services in grocery stores, which include lack of floor space, the ability to lower labor cost, and the concerns of consumer acceptance and usage, but this has changed with the future of technology. The permutation of self-checkout technology now gives the retailer opportunities to reduce labor intendment, and it also orchestrates the front-end operations to offer state of the art customer service to the consumer Self- checkout allows retailers to save space and it easily fits into the store's existing layout. Five self-serve lanes can accommodate the floor space of only two conventional lanes. Cash balancing and reporting for each station remains the same as it was before the device was installed.
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    I cannot imagine the human factor completely disappearing in stores. I have three young children and I cannot go through teh self check-out if I have more than a couple of items. There will always be those people who need the extra help. I do enjoy self check-out lines, so hopefully there will be a balance of machine and man in the stores.
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    after the invention of the first POS system of 1974 and the self- check out counters of 1992 researchers projecting 430,000 of self check out counters to be opened by 2014.  The benefit of the Self Check out counters is very tempting for the owners.  Article mentions that some customers are still not too happy with the self check out counters, because of possible bad experience in the past.  Managers are delaying the installation of the automated check outs, because of the scare of the theft, but it's proven that theft is not as issue because usually losses occur from the cashier's negligence.  Article provides some of the proves that self check out counter , can help customers to lose weight, and check out faster, and provides extra privacy. 
Gabriela Moreno

Impact of Individual Differences and Consumers' Readiness on Likelihood of Using Self-S... - 1 views

  • As more hospitality companies use self-service technologies (SSTs), the industry is going through an evolutionary adoption process.
  • To successfully implement and use SSTs, it is important for the hospitality operators to understand the factors that determine both willingness and resistance of the customers on using the SSTs.
  • The results indicate that consumers’ extrinsic motivation had the most significant impact on their likelihood of using new SSTs (e.g., kiosks and touch screen tables for ordering food or other services at hotels, casinos, and restaurants or pools), followed by intrinsic motivation and role clarity.
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    The article, Impact of Individual Differences and Consumers' Readiness on Likelihood of Using Self Service Technologies at Hospitality Settings states that the use of self-service technology is a rising trend across the board. Major hotel chains, resorts, casinos are implementing software that can remember customers, their information, and go beyond current human levels of service performance. However, not everyone is ready for this new age of self-service technology. In their study, the authors explored influential factors related to individual differences and customer readiness on the likelihood of using self-service technologies. Findings supported technologies such as pay-at-the-pump, online travel purchase, ATMS, and other services that have been around for years were highly accepted. On the contrary, new services such as ordering food over the phone and Internet kiosks in bars were preferred by less than thirty percent of respondents. Within the hospitality industry, customers may perceive new self-service technologies as positive but may choose not to use them if they do not understand it or see no clear benefit from it.  To summarize the results, people may just not be ready for the self-service take over. Especially in the early stages, hospitality companies would need to have an employee standing by the new self-service technology to assist customers with their needs. Although a well used self-service system could generate a new revenue stream, particularly when concerning the younger generation, it is essential that managers take into mind the overall level of consumer motivation and readiness to embrace it,
alomariee98

Nobody likes self-checkout. Here's why it's everywhere - CNN - 0 views

    • alomariee98
       
      It is really good to know that customers are not the only ones that experience issues with self-check-outs at the stores. They are machines that need to be maintained every so often. I have had my own experience with self-checkout and can see both sides of the story. In my experience which just so happened to be yesterday I did self-checkout in 2 different places. In one of them a customer tried to get away with theft by hovering the scanner over the item and not really scanning anything. In the other instance I kept getting the error message that did not let me keep scanning until the system reverted back to the scanning page. I get how it can be frustrating but I also see that sometimes it is the quickest option. Now with the pandemic like it says on the article some people prefer the no contact option and rather do the things themselves. This disruptive innovation just shows if there are stores that do not have it, they may fall behind because it has already become normal whether you use it or not. It gives people the choice whether or not they want to use it. Bad thing is that it does show less employees working on the floor because of these machines depending on the store. Now its a competition everywhere to have self check-out. An example I know of is the Disney Stores at Disney Springs and inside the parks. If you have the My Disney Experience app you can do mobile check-out without having to make a line for the register. Less contact with an employee.
  • The machines are expensive to install, often break down and can lead to customers purchasing fewer items.
  • higher losses and more shoplifting
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  • 29% of transactions at food retailers were processed through self-checkout, up from 23% the year prior
  • work from paid employees to unpaid customers
  • was designed primarily to lower stores' labor expenses
  • Customers scanned their items and put them on a conveyor belt. An employee at the other end of the belt bagged the groceries. Customers then took them to a central cashier area to pay.
  • 52% of shoppers considered self checkout lanes to be "okay," while 16% said they were "frustrating." Thirty-two percent of shoppers called them "great."
  • required regular maintenance and supervision
  • self-checkout leads to more losses due to error or theft than traditional cashiers.
  • Other customers take advantage of the lax oversight at self checkout aisles and have developed techniques for stealing.
  • Stores have tried to limit losses by tightening self-checkout security features, such as adding weight sensors
  • It may simply be too late for stores to turn their back on self-checkout.
    • alomariee98
       
      It really is too late to turn their back on self-checkout. It is already part of the store and those who do not use it will get left behind. Sometimes self-checkout is faster but it can be a bit frustrating due to the error messages it may give you. After all, it is still a machine.
  • Store owners have also seen competitors installing self-checkout and determined they don't want to miss out
  • "It's an arms race. If everyone else is doing it, you look like an idiot if you don't have it,"
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    Disruptive Innovation: Self-checkout
kayshap96

Why you should consider Self Order Kiosk for your Restaurant - 0 views

  • Why you should consider Self Order Kiosks for your Restaurant
  •  Self Order Kiosks are typically considered to be touchscreen computers that allow customers to enter an order into the computer on their own.
  • The increase in minimum wage is reaching an inflection point at which the cost to invest in solutions like Self Order Kiosks might cost less overall than investing in POS and employees to operate them.
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  • However, there has been steady growth in the demand for Self Order Kiosks in the Fast Casual, Restaurant and Fast Food industries.  These days businesses are much more aware of the benefits of technology.  There is a lot of proven data that the right technology can boost the growth and productivity of a business.  Restaurants that are able leverage the latest technology trends can often have the largest technological advantage in the market. 
  • The Restaurant and Fast Food industry has changed a lot in the last 10 years and the competition and ability to differentiate has become increasingly more difficult.  We’re seeing a lot of overcrowding in many spaces.  Much like Retail stores casual dining restaurants are experiencing similar store closings due to overcrowding.
  • As time changes so do the generations of adults.  This means as baby boomers get older the next generation of people will be the majority of customers.  These days it’s not hard to see that almost every brand is looking to cater to the next generation of consumers.  It’s also no secret that the millennial generation and every generation after is much more technology aware and savvy.
  • Lower Overhead Improve Customer Experience and Retention Improve Efficiency Improve Growth Increase Revenue
  • Self Order Kiosk orders are typically submitted more accurately because there is no translation required from customer to cashier. It’s been proven that customers are happier with order consistency when entering orders on their own.  Happy customers often translate into repeat customers.
  • elf Order Kiosks can consistently provide better upselling and suggestive selling.  The more advanced kiosk technologies can provide upsells and suggestions based on the user that is ordering.
  • Kiosks can free up valuable human resources to do what humans do better than any kiosk could: greeting customers, offering assistance, bringing their food to the table, offering suggestions, and asking about their experience.
  • Many millennial customers will often choose a Self Service Kiosk option and if the kiosk is designed well, they will have a good ordering experience because the order entry was fast and easy.  A good kiosk interface can allow the customer to expect an accurate order every time.
  • Self Order Kiosks sound great! So then why has adoption been so poor?
  • Fragmentation Most of the Self Order Kiosks that are available today are not made for your Point of Sale system.  So there isn’t always a kiosk solution available.
  • Limited Customization Most Self Order Kiosks can be customized but the customization is often limited.  The ability to change the workflow, menu layout, and user experience tend to be limited.  These kiosks often have a standardized layout.  Most Self Order Kiosks do not allow you to change the orientation of the screen from portrait to landscape or vice versa.
  • Cost Self Order Kiosks definitely come with initial and on-going costs.  As with all things you get what you pay for.  The lower cost kiosks provide limited flexibility and may do a poor job of representing your brand.  The cheaper kiosk hardware is often not commercial grade and not nearly as rugged/tamper resistant as higher end options.  Cheaper solutions may be cost less up front but it limits your capabilities and the type of self service you’re offering your customers.
  • The high end kiosks built with custom enclosures and hardware are much more expensive.  However they can deliver the true branded experience.  As with all custom built equipment, it always has a higher initial cost and often come with a higher installation and setup cost. High end kiosk software is often custom developed.
  • Management Kiosks like all technologies, require management.  Maintenance, repairs, upgrades, security, and upkeep can increase the overhead of owning and operating Self Order Kiosks. Another issue that can arise from Kiosks is vandalism and this issue can add costs to manageability.
  • Poor Customer Experience Customers may become impatient or frustrated if the kiosks are not working, are laggy, or the interface is too complex to order or pay.  When something goes wrong customers may have to ask for assistance which can take up additional time.
  • Employee Sabotage Employees can see Kiosks as a threat to their job security and can make the experience difficult to adopt.  Sometimes Servers may believe that they are getting smaller tips because the customers are using self service kiosks.
ecast038

The Truth About Self-Serve Kiosks At Fast Food Restaurants - 0 views

  • self-serve technology is not only making fast food service more efficient, but also subtly changing customer behavior. Namely, it is encouraging people to spend more
  • elf-serve kiosks increase customer spending, on average, by 20%, and this figure is borne out by data presented in a 2015 Harvard Business Review article. According to the review, major chains, including Taco Bell, McDonald's, and Chilis have all reported self-serve kiosks generating larger sales than in-person ordering, usually by a margin of 20%. In one instance, McDonald's even saw sales increase by as much as 30%.
  • On the one hand, standard industry practices such as "upselling" (promoting premium goods, add-ons, and customization) are programmed right into the machines. Human cashiers may neglect to upsell, but self-serve kiosks can't help but do so (via FoodTec). Given the visual nature of self-serve kiosks, upselling can be cleverly woven into the menu itself, and more easily escape customer notice. 
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  • In a 2017 study published in the Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, researchers demonstrated that touch screens create "experiential and effective feelings" in customers — and, moreover, a greater sense of privacy. In short, customers are happier and more self-assured when using self-serve kiosks, and are therefore more likely to spend more.
  • Using a self-service kiosk can be a joyful experience, but one that comes at a cost if you're not careful.
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    The self-serve kiosks or unattended POS systems are changing the customer behavior and getting consumers to spend more. Many major chain restaurants have incorporated them in their business such as Chilis, McDonalds and Taco Bell. Kiosks tend to upsell the customer while regular cashiers may not. Self serve is bette for business, not so much for the customers wallet.
anonymous

7 Benefits of Utilizing a Self-Service Kiosk in the Hospitality Industry | NEC Today - 0 views

  • Self-service solutions can increase up-sell opportunities. With a robust and “Smart” self-service kiosk, guests can upgrade their room, redeem special offers, and purchase additional services such as continental breakfast or room service, all in an effortless way
  • Regrettably, the names of guests are often misspelled, or the wrong room type is selected by accident. No matter how trained a staff member is, humans make mistakes, especially when they are busy juggling multiple tasks at once.
  • Regardless of their preference, offering a self-service kiosk enhances the guest’s freedom and offers them a level of control that will surely give off a good impression and improve satisfaction
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  • By cutting out the middleman when it comes time for a guest to register their stay and automating the check-in process, you can avoid common errors and improve the way you engage with customer
  • A recent study showed that 72% of 33–44-year old’s were most likely to use a self-service kiosk. When weighing the potential benefits, 61% cited faster service, 59% shorter lines, 58% privacy, 50% greater control, and 38% no interaction with personn
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    This article shows the benefits of self service kiosks. It points out that the self POS system can increase upselling since clients don't feel pressured by a person. They also did a study that 72% of people 33-44 years old will use a self service kiosk than speaking to a person.
sanchezgema_

5 Technologies Hotels Should Be Investing Into For 2020 | By Andrew Metcalfe - Hospital... - 0 views

  • A recent study of 2,000 people conducted by Guestline, looked how people book their hotels and the factors involved in room cancellations. It was found that over a quarter of people take into high consideration the quality and detail of a hotel's website (such as photographs and information) before making a direct booking online1.
  • Investing money into your websites simplicity in all stages of the guest journey will help acquire traffic, increase conversion rates and drive more people to book direct. The simplicity of website use (including less re-directs) will result trustworthiness of the potential customer. Hotel management may also find reporting efficient with less redirect windows to consider.
  • An investment in secure payment gateways protects the data of hotel guests, and the hotels credibility. For example, if a guest was to see the wrong value on an invoice, they may become wary of how secure that hotel's payment system is and look elsewhere. A secure payment gateway also checks in advance whether the credit card exists and is covered which could reduce chargebacks. This way, the hotelier can make sure that the booking via the credit card is genuine and at the same time protect the guest's data.
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  • Carefully choosing the right time to upsell a guest's hotel booking is crucial to a hotels' additional revenue stream. After a booking has been made there is a fresh window of opportunity to upsell, as guests will reflect on their budget spend and perhaps feel there is room to spare on extra luxuries and see what they may be missing out on.
  • Having all the data in one system makes presenting and acting on the data much more effective. For example, Amazon don't deliver packages 100% of the time but the rest of the experience they control, making it so easy for people to buy from them. Hotel systems will need to move this way in order to provide similarly strong guest experiences." Says Andrew
  • Consumers are becoming accustomed to self-service systems as they appear across retail, leisure & transport industries. Another study, suggested that guests favour hotel self-service check-in's as it provides a faster service, results in more privacy and waiting time/lines are much shorter3. Hoteliers could consider how their core data system might be centralised as much as possible in order to make it a less complex & more efficient guest journey from booking to check in. Technology such as guest portals can be efficient for customers to retrieve their invoices quickly and will centralise all the data for the hotelier.
  • Omni channel platforms enable you to centralise operational systems, take back control of your revenue flow and transparency of guest data, so hotel management can focus on creating the best experience for customers.
  • In a recent survey of 2,654 consumers by the Travel Leaders Group, 78% of respondents said they would like to see self-service kiosks more widely available for check-in2.
  • many of these will create options to drive people to your website but also more competition. If you can show your offering more easily, make booking slick and then integrate it to an onsite experience it will encourage guests to use you for converting their search to a reservation.
  • Upselling is an important aspect of hotel revenue
  • Hotel payments have adjusted to new legislation and as the move towards a more integrated guest experience aspects through check-in and checkout, invoice retrieval march on the payment aspects will have to dovetail seamlessly and accurately.
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    This article talks about the 5 technologies hotels should be investing into for 2020 in order to stay competitive. The technologies are website simplicity, upselling tech to boost profitability, secure payment systems to increase consumer confidence & credibility, self service and automated check-in, and an omni platform which centralises operations.
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    Hotels are taking new major steps into tech integration as more and more developments are constantly being requested by guest and made by property owners. These I.T investments can help these properties majorly and help increase guest satisfaction. One advantage that many companies can use is it up selling aspect to help push sales. Investing in secure payment options helps with data security and gives the hotel credibility.
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    -Website simplicity -Upselling technology to boost profitability -Secure payment systems to increase consumer confidence and credibility -Self service and automated check in -An omni platform which centralizes operations -In a 2,000 people study, a quarter of people take into high consideration the quality and detail of a hotel's website before making a direct booking online. -Website simplicity acquires traffic, increases conversion rates and drives more people to book direct. -Upselling can happen subsequently through nudge marketing via emails, push notifications of even on arrival at the hotel. -Investment in secure payment gateways protects the data of hotel guests and the hotels credibility. -Also checks in advance whether the credit card exists and is covered which could reduce chargebacks. -In a survey of 2,654 consumers, 78% of respondents said they would like to see self-service kiosks more widely available for check in. -Self check in is faster service, more privacy, and waiting time/lines are much shorter. -Omni channel platforms enable you to centralize operational systems, take back control of your revenue flow and transparency of guest data, so hotel management can focus on creating the best experience for customers.
taurus1313

4 Must-Have Unattended Payments Features for New and Existing POS Installations - DevPr... - 0 views

  • Security and loss prevention are important to any business, but they are particular concerns with unattended payments. With no sales associate to monitor behavior, self-service terminals may be a target for theft or tampering.
  • Today’s consumers demand that any customer-facing solution is convenient and easy to use,
  • and business owners won’t gamble on a solution that could diminish customer loyalty.
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  • Many types of businesses and organizations that are implementing self-service are doing so to help improve average sales and customer throughput.
  • It’s vital that unattended payment solutions integrate with the business’ systems, such as point of sale (POS), retail inventory management, restaurant kitchen display system, or accounting systems. Your solution will have far less value if it stands alone and requires your clients to manually transfer data to other systems.
  • Lower labor costs
  • Fewer order or cashier errors
  • Better space utilization with fewer checkout counters
  • Reduced risk of employee theft due to less cash handling
  • The number of consumers who prefer self-service is growing
  • 66 percent of shoppers favor self-service technology over interacting with sales associates
  • 77 percent of consumers say they’d be comfortable in a retail setting where there is only self-checkout — no sales associates at all
  • Quick service restaurants are launching self-service ordering and payment, keeping lines shorter and serving customers faster
  • These solutions should meet all Payment Card Industry (PCI) standards, including best practices for skimming prevention.
  • Unattended payment solutions represent the chance for you to enter the market as the opportunity grows
  • Not only does this give you a broader market in which to sell your solutions, it can also differentiate your business from direct-selling POS providers, positioning you more strongly to compete
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    Unattended POS systems are being utilized in spaces beyond vending and self service. Many industries are leaning towards changing to self serve kiosks and this article explains why and shows for benefits to this system. I have seen this system move from grocery store checkouts to the McDonald's located in a busy beach side town.
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    the article highlights the benefits of using unattended pos systems and how there is a growing tendency for self service and less face to face interaction in retail and hospitlaity business
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    "Lower labor costs Fewer order or cashier errors Better space utilization with fewer checkout counters Reduced risk of employee theft due to less cash handling"
mtedd003

Meet the Soaring Demand for Unattended POS in the Restaurant and Retail Verticals - Dat... - 0 views

  • One of the latest trends that have made it necessary for solutions providers businesses to adapt is the booming unattended POS trend. The global interactive kiosk market saw record growth in 2018, reaching $9.22 billion and a 17.6 percent growth rate — which exceeded the growth rate in 2017.
  • Last year, McDonald’s announced a plan to install self-service kiosks in 1,000 of its stores per quarter.  Taco Bell planned kiosk installations in more than 6,000 locations, and Subway included self-service kiosks in its “Fresh Forward” initiative to transform customer experiences.
  • Furthermore, 60 percent say they’d visit restaurants more often if they had self-service kiosks.
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  • Erba Collective, a Los Angeles cannabis dispensary, installed self-service kiosks that accepted cashless payments to reduce wait times and increase customer turnover.
  • It’s the right solution for today’s consumers: Consumers value their time, and waiting in line can destroy an otherwise great customer experience.
  • It’s the right solution for today’s businesses: Merchants are facing mounting challenges ranging from rising labor costs to new competition. Self-service kiosks can help businesses do more with the same staff, minimizing the labor required for order taking or checkout.
  • o provide unattended POS solutions, you will need to speak with your vendors or find new partners that offer the types of hardware you need. It’s also vital that you work with a payments partner with expertise in managing unattended POS transactions.
  • EMV chip technology will help prevent card fraud.
  • part of their omnichannel strategies
  • If your goal is to be a total solutions provider and meet all of your customers’ needs
  • one-stop shop.”
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    Unattended POS is growing global trend which industry leaders will soon have to adapt in their business place. Quick service restaurants are quickly adapting to this change as it reduces wait time and increase in customer return rate. Other key benefits for businesses are the decrease in labor costs & minimal errors when processing guests' request. Ideally, merchants must speak with vendors to customize the self-service kiosk and to ensure they are in compliance. In the end this will expand revenue and efficiency.
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    Unattended POS machines hit a global growth of $9.22 billion in 2018 from 2017, and is still climbing. The unattended POS machine has shown to be particular popular in the quick service restaurant sector. McDonald's has announced a plan to put 1,000 self-service kiosks in their stores per quarter. Taco bell and Subway have also announced they will be adding the kiosks in their stores as an initiative to offer a heightened customer experience. The machines have come with the benefits of reduced wait time and faster customer turnover. POS growth is attributed to aligning with today's consumers' expectations. Customers value their time and rising labor costs can be eased with the machine as it expedites transactions and covers tasks not relied on by human interaction.
Chris Cardoso

Hotel Telecommunications Strategies - 6 views

  • No matter what telecommunications strategy a property takes, one thing is for certain, it needs to be a different one from the past.
  • The guest now has a variety of choices for communicating including fax over the Internet, e-mail, cell phones, calling cards and now even Internet-based phones. 
  • Assuming that the wireless reception quality is acceptable, it is very difficult for the hotel to compete on a cost basis.
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  • Given the hotel’s advantage in quality over the guest’s portable devices, the proper packaging of services will lure even the most avid self-contained guest back to using the hotel’s telecom services.
  • Hotels are unable to compete on price with devices that the guest has brought with him.  What the hotel can do is offer a better experience at a reasonable price to entice guests to use the hotel’s telecom infrastructure.
  • Attracting the Guests to Use the Hotel’s Telecommunication Services
  • The guest now has a variety of choices for communicating including fax over the Internet, e-mail, cell phones, calling cards and now even Internet-based phones.   All these alternatives offer a less expensive means of communicating than using the traditional hotel guestroom phone and other services such as fax.
  • No matter what telecommunications strategy a property takes, one thing is for certain, it needs to be a different one from the past.
  • The guest now has a variety of choices for communicating including fax over the Internet, e-mail, cell phones, calling cards and now even Internet-based phones.   All these alternatives offer a less expensive means of communicating than using the traditional hotel guestroom phone and other services such as fax
  • No matter what telecommunications strategy a property takes, one thing is for certain, it needs to be a different one from the past.
  • Attracting the Guests to Use the Hotel’s Telecommunication Services   Hotels are unable to compete on price with devices that the guest has brought with him.   What the hotel can do is offer a better experience at a reasonable price to entice guests to use the hotel’s telecom infrastructure. No matter what cell phone the guest may carry or what service provider is used, no wireless connection is as good as a land-line connection
  • Guests had little choice back then but to use the guestroom phone and grumble about the cost.
  • Assuming that the wireless reception quality is acceptable, it is very difficult for the hotel to compete on a cost basis .
  • Assuming that the wireless reception quality is acceptable, it is very difficult for the hotel to compete on a cost basis
  • Another concern among hoteliers is what can be termed the self-contained guest
  • Another concern among hoteliers is what can be termed the self-contained guest
  • Theoretically, the self-contained guest needs no hotel telecommunications services .  
  • Theoretically, the self-contained guest needs no hotel telecommunications services
  • Guests had little choice back then but to use the guestroom phone and grumble about the cost.
  • Hotels are unable to compete on price with devices that the guest has brought with him.   What the hotel can do is offer a better experience at a reasonable price to entice guests to use the hotel’s telecom infrastructure. No matter what cell phone the guest may carry or what service provider is used, no wireless connection is as good as a land-line connection
  • The early 1980s marked the beginning of an era of profitable hotel telephone departments.  The advent of call accounting systems (thanks to deregulation) enabled hoteliers to easily mark up calls to a profitable (some say too profitable) level.  Guests had little choice back then but to use the guestroom phone and grumble about the cost. This era has come to an end.  With few exceptions, most hotels have seen between a 15 percent and 25 percent drop in telephone revenues over the last five years.  The main reason for this decrease is guest choice.  The guest now has a variety of choices for communicating including fax over the Internet, e-mail, cell phones, calling cards and now even Internet-based phones.   All these alternatives offer a less expensive means of communicating than using the traditional hotel guestroom phone and other services such as fax . A fax machine in the guestroom was considered a premium amenity for many years.  With the Internet explosion, however, the machines have seen less use.
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    No matter what telecommunications strategy a property takes, one thing is for certain, it needs to be a different one from the past. The early 1980s marked the beginning of an era of profitable hotel telephone departments. The advent of call accounting systems (thanks to deregulation) enabled hoteliers to easily mark up calls to a profitable (some say too profitable) level.
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    Nowadays, people have many choices for communicating including fax over the Internet, e-mail, cell phones, calling cards and now even Internet-based phones. Hotel guests are restricted by the largest telecommunications service providers from making long distance collect and credit card calls to countries other than their home country. The guest is not able to complete his desired call from the guest room telephone. In addition to frustrated guests, this generates absolutely zero revenue to hotels. What the hotel can do is offer a better experience at a reasonable price to entice guests to use the hotel's telecom infrastructure. The hotel can use some systems to reach this goal, such as the BBG Communications. It can increase revenue for every international operator assisted call. It assumes all responsibility for billing and collection of all calls. It has over 500 multilingual, live operators servicing customers. The most important thing is there is no cost and risk to the hotel, because the BBG assumes all associated cost and responsibility.
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    This article is talked about hotel telecommunications in the 21st Century. No matter what telecommunications strategy a property takes, one thing is for certain, it needs to be a different one from the past. The early 1980s marked the beginning of an area of profitable hotel telephone department. Few years later, this area has come to an end. The main reason for this decrease is guest choice. Later on, guests have a variety of choices for communicating including fax over the Internet, e-mail, cell-phones, calling cards and even Internet-based phones. All these alternatives offer a less expensive means of communicating than using the traditional hotel guestroom phone. With the time passed by, hotel telecommunications update and improve better and better. Nowadays, High-speed Internet access is fast becoming an expected amenity. This the revolution for hotel telecommunications in the 21st Century.
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    This article that is written by Geoff Grisworld. Talks about how telecommications has changing in the 21st century. One of them being hotel. Hotel takes a big advantage in telecommication because there is always a change in the communication system. That is why hotel have to upgrade their system often. This is why hotelier organizes packaging deal when it comes to communication system from using the phone to HSIA. This is a few system that is always need to be change constantly, so the hotel can offer a better experience at a reasonable price while they are enjoying their stay.
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    This article speaks about the growth and development of telecommunication within the hospitality industry in the 21st century. "No matter what telecommunications strategy a property takes, one thing is for certain, it needs to be a different one from the past," the article states. Since the 80s hotels utilized their telephone department to offer a service for a profit. Because there was little to no competition with communication, this was profitable as guest pretty much had no choice but to use the phone service provided at a set cost by the hotel. Today, however, we see a shift in technology now where everyone has communication at their disposal via smart phones, Internet and other communication tools. With this happening, "it is very difficult for the hotel to compete on a cost basis." (Griswold) It also explains how high-speed Internet access (HSIA) is almost seen as an amenity anticipated by the guest and has worked in the hotels' favor. The article goes on to describe the "self-contained guest" that carries a smart phone, small printer, notebook computer and technology of their own which allows them to virtually have no use in the hotel telecommunications services. So what does this article suggest for concerns as such? Hotels are to attract guests to use their telecommunication services. By offering packaged deals at affordable prices, Griswold believes hotels will be able to be the ideal option for telecommunications services. After viewing this article, I realize how hospitality industry workers think about those they serve all the time and should always display it. Even though the hotel is trying to make money by charging for Internet and phone services, they wish to market the service as the best option for the guest. The Internet connection would be faster provided by the hotel over a smart phone is one feature they wish to advertise. This type of mentality is smart yet should be withheld throughout the industry and always show that the
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    The early 1980s marked the beginning of an era of profitable hotel telephone departments, because guests had little choice back then but to use the guestroom phone and grumble about the cost. Nowadays, guest has a variety of choices for communicating including fax over the Internet, e-mail, cell phones, calling cards and now even Internet-based phones. All these alternatives offer a less expensive means of communicating than using the traditional hotel guestroom phone and other services such as fax. And high-speed Internet access (HSIA) is fast becoming an expected amenity in 21st century. Today hotels are unable to compete on price with devices that the guest has brought with him. What the hotel can do is offer a better experience at a reasonable price to entice guests to use the hotel's telecom infrastructure.
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    This article explains how much are creating incentives for hotel guest in an effort to get them to use the technology that the hotel provides.
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    In modern society hotel need more attrahent thing increase revenue. The traditional way may lose competitiveness, like telephone services. Because almost everybody using personal cell phone and more and more people prefer to use internet to communicate such as email and skype. In my opinion if hotel build some telecommunications use internet such as physical skype phone and provide cheap service that may be attract more people to use that.
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    With the emergence of "self-contained guest," hotel telecommunications departments must change its offerings because old strategies no longer apply. A self-contained guest is one that does not need the traditional amenities hotels would offer for telecommunications, such as fax machines and printers. Guests now look for a fast, free internet connection as an amenity. Some may not even need wifi, because they have a faster mobile service that they use. Even hotel telephones, guests no longer want to use the land line and pay hotel fees to make a call. Cell phones have eliminated that need (even for international calls). So hotels must not stay the same, and must change their strategies for producing revenue from their telecommunications department.
anonymous

Shake Shack Gives Self-Service Kiosks a Second Chance - 0 views

  • human intervention actually was totally necessary
  • Shake Shack abandoned the concept
  • some differences from the pilot.
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  • more hybrid concept, offering both cashiers and kiosks.
  • interacting with an actual person
  • use cash if they prefer,
  • San Francisco and Seattle, where labor costs run especially high
  • That’s partly because they’re still accepting cash and party because people’s perception towards automation has shifted since the first iteration
  • And with labor costs continuing to rise, the pressure to automate more and more restaurant operations will increase
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    In 2017, Shake Shack installed it's first self-service kiosk, but quickly removed it due to customers unsatisfaction. A year later, Shake Shack re-installed the sef-service kiosks, but also offered walk up cashiers for those that had trouble with the technology and also wanted to order with a human...plus now they could cash versus credit card only. With increased minimum wage, restaurant labor costs are rising so more self-service kiosks may help restaurants keep those costs lower.
xinyingsong

5 Reasons Your Hotel Should Have Self Check-In | Hotel Marketing - 1 views

  • Correct guest data in your system
  • System interoperability
  • Self check-in creates upsell and revenue opportunities
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  • Staff can focus on the things that matter most
  • Self service doesn’t mean lack of service
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    This article show us 5 advantage that hotel using self check-in. Slef check-in is a hospitality software which can help hotels especially the front desk department slightly switching its focus from managing rooms and reservations to enabling real-time digital guest services. Self-services in hotels can improve the work effeciency of staff, reduce existing work content and leave more opportunity for human interactions. Besides, it can saving the labor cost and increase the accuracy of routine operations base on machine and technology, and improve the guest experience altogether.
Hui Chen

Supermarket Self-Checkouts Being Replaced With People - 0 views

  • Some shoppers loved them and were quick converts, while other reactions ranged from disinterest to outright hatred – much of it shared on blogs or in Facebook groups.
  • An internal study by Big Y found delays in its self-service lines caused by customer confusion over coupons, payments and other problems; intentional and accidental theft, including misidentifying produce and baked goods as less-expensive varieties;
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    Supermarket Self-Checkout is a very good example for technology replacing jobs.  Supermarket Self-Checkout was once very popular, but soon, being replaced by people.  This article tells you why.
anonymous

The Pros and Cons of Restaurant Self-service Kiosks - 0 views

  • With 79% of customers saying that they believe restaurant kiosks make their experience more convenient, according to NRA data, expect it to be a growing trend.
  • Customers have grown accustomed to helping themselves at many dining establishments over the years, whether it’s placing their orders at counters at the restaurant POS or choosing items from a buffet and paying for them.
  • The main appeal of self-checkout kiosks is to make the ordering process more efficient, which is why they have become popular in fast food chains.
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  • Another downside is that once you leave orders to the customers, you can lose out on some of the human customer service touches. Especially at sit down establishments, guests often ask waitstaff for recommendations or have questions about how dishes are prepared. You can’t do that on a screen.
  • In a poll released by MSN, 78 percent of diners said they were less likely to eat at a restaurant with self-ordering kiosks.
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    According to the article, NRA data shows that 79% of customers say they believe restaurant kiosks make their experience more convenient. However, an MSN poll shows that 78% of diners say they are less likely to eat at a restaurant with self-ordering kiosks. Although a kiosk may make the experience more convenient, are customers ready to give up that personal interaction with the service staff? This could be an issue that is based on the type of service model, with a younger audience or diners frequenting a fast-casual experience not minding the self-service aspect where an older more sophisticated diner frequenting a high-end establishment may want that personal service experience.
qyang010

5 Reasons Your Hotel Should Have Self Check-In | Hotel Marketing - 0 views

  • 2. Staff can focus on the things that matter most
  • 3. Self check-in creates upsell and revenue opportunities
  • 4. System interoperability
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  • 5. Correct guest data in your system
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    Self check-in hotel is automated check-in, check out, selected your own room, secure payments, and not waste each others time. Also self-service can improve work efficiency and reduce labor costs.
Tracy Kohn

Property Management Goes Mobile - 1 views

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    In this article it begins to explain property management systems PMS going mobile in the hotel industry and how beneficial it is for hotel corporations and for customers. The author explained that the most in-demand PMS function for hotels is the ability to have a real time data of room availability, access to guest information such as comments and special request, room/ work order status, and up-to-date pricing. For customers facing mobile apps they would enjoy the guest self-service of booking, self check-in/out, service request, and messaging to staff. However even though mobile devices makes such functionality seem easier mobile-enabling a PMS is not easy at all in fact, making functions available via a browser would be a huge transition for a business.
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    In this article it begins to explain property management systems PMS going mobile in the hotel industry and how beneficial it is for hotel corporations and for customers. The author explained that the most in-demand PMS function for hotels is the ability to have a real time data of room availability, access to guest information such as comments and special request, room/ work order status, and up-to-date pricing. For customers facing mobile apps they would enjoy the guest self-service of booking, self check-in/out, service request, and messaging to staff. However even though mobile devices makes such functionality seem easier mobile-enabling a PMS is not easy at all in fact, making functions available via a browser would be a huge transition for a business.
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    More and more are properties interested in having a PMS device that they can be accessed at anytime and anywhere. The answer to this challenge is to have PMS functions accessible via mobile devices which can be challenging for some of the systems, especially those that do not reside in cloud. For some smaller properties, the goal is to have no front desk at all and some have been quite successful in making this a reality. As stated in the Property Management Goes Mobile article, the ski resort Tremblant Elysium has been successful with using the cloud-based FrontDesk Anywhere. The guests receive a letter a week prior to check in containing a door code and 30 minutes after their arrival concierge comes to their room to complete their check in and sign the registration card. The CEO of Tremblant Elysium stated: "Guests love it because it is simple and easy and we do not have staff waiting around for people to check in." As stated in the article, guest require for Mobile PMS to include access to room availability and full front desk access including guest profiles and preferences, room/work order status, up-to-date pricing and housekeeping access for rooms statutes. Mobile-enabling PMS can be quite challenging to design, as it can bring difficulties with screen size, performance or choosing which device to use as the code must be re-written for each one. Another major concern for this type of PMS is the synchronization with other system with which PMS is integrated. As hotelier consider implementing mobile-enabling PMS device for their property, there are concerns about security as far as data storage or mobile check-in or the issuing of keys for guests. In my opinion mobile-enabling PMS is the future for smaller properties. Why would a hotel need to have a stand-alone front desk when we can use mobile phones to do the work for us as we are on the go? Eventually, we can have our staff cross trained in smaller properties all equipped with phones, all available to ch
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    This article discusses the wish-list for hoteliers when they are considering cloud-based systems.Tthe most in-demand mobile PMS functions include GM access to KPIs, CRM and room availability, and front desk staff access to guest information such as comments and special requests, room/work order status and consolidated messaging among staff. It would seem that with all of these personal apps that are appearing on the market, that mobilizing a PMS would be easy, but that is not the case. The code is not universal; i.e. code must be re-written for each one, although there are tools like service-oriented architecture and html5 to help. There will naturally be concerns when considering adopting a mobile PMS across properties. Before investing in a roll-out of new technology, decision-makers must ask the right questions dealing with security, data storage, and functionality.
Minghui Zheng

Advantages & Disadvantages of Human Resource Information System | Chron.com - 1 views

  • When the decision to build a human resources information systems department is made, examine the options carefully and be aware of technology and human resources trends for a small business. Small businesses have unique needs based on company goals for growth, or a plan to remain small with access to technology without the hefty costs. The term "human resources information systems" (HRIS) often is used interchangeably with human resources management system (HRMS) and human resources information technology (HRIT). Any of these terms is used to describe the computer and information technology a company utilizes to automate human resources functions and employment actions.
  • A very popular use of HRIS is employee self-service. Many employers are utilizing their HRIS to supplement the human resources department staff by enabling employees for find answers to common questions they would have asked a human resources representative.
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    This article summarized the advantages and disadvantages of using human resource information system. An HRIS is used for employment actions such as applicant tracking, performance management, attendance, compensation and benefits management, work force analyses, and scheduling. A very popular use of HRIS is employee self-service. There are a lot of advantages of HRIS, such as it is monitored by qualified specialists who know technology and HR functional and tactical processes can manage compliance with federal and state laws, streamline processes for recruitment and selection, and produce analyses, data and reports for internal and external use. What's more, it is easy to use for qualification computer technology specialists, accuracy of information and the ability to perform HR audits using any combination of parameters. It saves a lot of time. The disadvantages included that HRIS may involve human error during information input, costly technology to update the system and malfunctions or insufficient applications to support the human resources needs. There should be a qualified specialist with human resources functional area knowledge to manage this system. The cost to hire an HRIS specialist may be far above the average salary for a computer technology specialist.
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    The article highlighted describes some advantages and disadvantages of a Human Reources Information System for small business, that would include restaurants. The decision maker would have to take in consideration what type of information the system will need to handle in order to select the system to be used. This systems can do applicant tracking, perfomance management, attendance, compensatio, benefitios, paid time off and etc. A type of disadvantage for small businesses would be to be able to get support from somebody to manage the system. This could have high costs involved.
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    This article discusses Human Resource Information Systems and the benefits and disadvantages to investing in such a program. Some of the advantages that the article addresses are: "manage compliance with federal and state laws, streamline processes for recruitment and selection, and produce analyses, data and reports for internal and external use." The technology allows employees and managers to "locate answers and information quickly without the need to consult an HR representative every time." I feel that this advantage outweighs any of the disadvantages that there may be. The benefits of a business/hotel running more smoothly are infinitely rewarding to profits and many other aspects of convenience. Some of the disadvantages that the article addresses are insufficient applications to support the human resource department, as well as it being costly.
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    This article describes Human Resource Information systems and the benefits and disadvantages to investing in this type of technology. The article states that the advantages to investing are: "being able to manage compliance with federal and state laws, streamline processes for recruitment and selection, and produce analyses, data and reports for internal and external use." Most importantly though, the article states, "The employee and manager self-service features are excellent ways to free up the time of your human resources staff members for project work and other duties. Employees and managers can locate answers and information quickly without the need to consult an HR representative every time." This, to me, outweighs any disadvantage that may come from investing in HRIS technology because the convenience that this technology provides could really benefit profits for a business. HRIS is about coordinating communication among different departments. Businesses should really invest in this technology, even though it is costly, because ultimately it will increase profits by getting things done faster and more efficiently, as well as preventing problems from happening before they happen.
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    With the development of high-tech management system, HRIS is no long strange for us. The HRIS is a software or online solution to data tracking, data management, or all of the data needs of the company within the human resources department. The reason why HRIS is becoming  more popular is that it has some useful functions such as the employee self-service through which employees can find answers to common questions by themselves while not ask a human resources representative. This system can help to save time and money for the company in certain aspects. But in this article, the author compares the advantages and disadvantages that HRIS brings to the company.The disadvantages can be that it may involve human errors during information input, costly technology update and so on. So if a company wants to apply this system, it should also look at these disadvantages, compare them with the advantages and then make a final decision in order to avoid suffering from the bad sides of the system. 
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    The HRIS is used for applicant tracking, performance management, attendance, compensation and benefits management, work force analyses, and scheduling. HRIS can be also used for employee self-service. The human resources department staff can find answers to common questions they would have asked a human resources representative from the HRIS. HRIS has many advantages. It can help organization manage compliance with laws, streamline processes for recruitment and selection, and produce analyses, data and reports. The ease of use for qualified specialists, accuracy of information and the ability to perform HR audits using any combination of parameters. However, there are still some disadvantages, such as human error during information input, costly technology to update your system and malfunctions or insufficient applications to support human resources needs. In addition, the cost of hiring an HRIS specialist is also a problem for the small business.
Jessica Schwec

7 technologies that are transforming the hospitality industry | Hospitality Magazine - 4 views

  • Despite the many changes that are being brought on by these technologies, the truth is that they are there to enhance, not to replace, the core offerings of a hospitality business.
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    The hospitality industry is experiencing a technological transformation. Current technology is improving and being put to better or new uses. According to this article in Hospitality Magazine, there are seven technologies that are taking the industry by storm. 1. Online Booking Systems I agree with the many industry insiders that now consider an online booking system essential. Penetrating the online marketplace is an absolutely mandatory part of the formula for success. However, opinions differ when it comes to how to accomplish this aspiration. As expressed in the article "Taking back control of the direct channel for hotels" posted on the class ScoopIt!, using online travel agents as a properties online booking system has easy setup and maintenance but lacks true customization and can put a sizable dent in profit margins, but building and utilizing a 100 percent customized system does not necessarily grant instant access to hundreds of travels sites on the web. Over all, I am of the opinion that online travel agents are still the best option-for now-because the pros out way the cons. 2. Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) Primarily used for mobile or self-ordering, EPOS systems can replace waitresses' use of paper orders and remote/hidden POS systems. In my opinion, this streamlines the look of the restaurant floor and provides better and more instantaneous service. Panera Bread uses self-order tablets as some of their locations that allow customers who know what they want to order traditional menu items quickly and independently. Having used this system, I find it more of a novelty than a convenience because the system isn't exactly self-explanatory. Currently, the technology is much more enjoyable as an aid to waitresses where the restaurant can experience increased efficiency and a higher standard of service while guests can experience the "that's cool" factor without the frustration of having to navigate the service themselves.
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    3. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) CRM technology provides efficient electronic storage and management of contracts and customer information and many versions also feature cloud-based applications that provide easy access to frontline employees. Electronic storage and online back-up are not totally new ideas (i.e. the floppy disc) and despite the long way these technologies have come is, in my opinion, not enough to do away completely with paper back ups. Even with electronic files, my previous property kept basic papers for 1 year and more sensitive files for much longer. Basically, CRM technology is something we should utilize more, but I doubt many will do away with a paperback up system anytime soon. 4. Marketing Automation Automatic email and text communications have been made possible by the development and improvement of marketing automation technology. Having worked with this type of technology, there is not an overabundance of companies/technologies from which to chose; however, the technology available various greatly in effectiveness and quality. In my opinion, Constant Contact is the best marriage of quality and ease of use for marketing automation technology available. This type of marketing can really step us a properties game, but beware of poor performing products. 5. Social Media According to the article, photos are the most popular posts by social media users, but the arena has become a bonafide space for reviews. While sites such as TripAdvisor and Expedia provide a niche arena for travel/tourism/hospitality related communication, general social media sites also invite open, unfiltered discussion. Whole social media is BIG, it is important for companies to assess and utilize only the social media outlets that their demographic are actively using.
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    6. Smartphones Smartphones are already super convenient. They are constantly being integrated and synced with our daily lives. Applications such as Apple Pay, in combination with CapitalOne, have provided another level of integration. Currently, there is talk and work on guests being able to use their cell phones as hotel room keys but I wouldn't be surprised if in the future we will have QR Code or RFID storage for our driver licenses, insurance policies and other important information. 7. Smart Appliances A part of American households for sometime, smart appliances are beginning to make their way into the hospitality industry. Luxuries such as electronically controlled blinds, thermostats, lights and more are something we can expect to see in hotels sometime in the future. My biggest concern is the time between now and implementation because while these products are available for purchase by consumers directly, they have not taken off nor seemed to gain any ground in the typical household. Could the hospitality industry be just as slow to adopt these technologies? I believe that it is likely so-mainly due to the high cost of implementation. In conclusion, technology is still advancing and most industries are feeling the pressure to update existing technology and adopt new technology. In the hospitality industry this is especially true.
Yueyu Peng

Self-order kiosks dominate NRA Show | Fast Casual - 0 views

  • This year, the number on display at Chicago's McCormick Place nearly tripled as kiosk manufacturers scrambled to meet the restaurant industry's demand to improve customer service with new technology.
  • Kiosk hardware and software manufacturers continue to fine tune their self-order kiosks, while POS system manufacturers introduce kiosk modules that integrate with mobile ordering, kitchen display systems and back-office management software.
  • highlights
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  • 365 Retail Markets
  • a provider of kiosk-based self-service solutions for unmanned stores, introduced its ReadyTouch for onsite foodservice operations.
  • Adusa Inc.
  • Qi integrates with POS systems, coexists with web and mobile apps, is FDA menu labeling law compliance and is certified for accessibility.
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    This article is introducing the new self-serve kiosks on National Restaurant Show. It mentioned some highlights from the shows. there are many different kind of kiosks used for the different restaurants.
dsada005

3 Reasons Why Unattended Retail Is The Future | Global Payments - 1 views

  • To many consumers, the future of being able to walk into a store, pull something off of a shelf and leave without the hassle of the checkout process sounds like Jetsons-futuristic-type stuff
  • For example, Uber lets consumers get a ride to wherever they want to go without ever having to pull out their wallet to pay.
  • Because customers enrolled in your loyalty program may permit you to acquire data about their purchases, you can personalize your customer's shopping experiences even more while they’re right there in the store with specific offers that complement their buying preferences.
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  • Not having to staff employees during your hours of operations results in a cost savings that could go straight to your bottom line. Having the flexibility to reallocate staffing and potentially lowering labor expenses opens up opportunities to extend your hours of operation creating more cash flow, meaning more revenue in your pocket
  • unattended retail can lower the instances of shrinkage because the technology provides real-time inventory tracking
  • To help wrap your mind around the future of retail, look at Amazon Go, a brick and mortar retail and grocery store powered by Amazon, which allows shoppers to "Grab and Go" without ever having to wait in line to pay for their items.
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    It seems that stores have just begun to jump on the self-checkout process. However, the self-checkouts are old news, the technology that is coming out now, known as "Grab and Go" is creating an even more automated process. This technology can allow you to take an item off the shelf (update inventory immediately) and simply walk out of the store, without ever having to take out your wallet. Spending money is becoming easier and easier, allowing consumers to consume more than ever. Some pros of this technology include, customer loyalty (personalizing the customers experience), lower overhead (saving money on labor costs and extending hours), and reduces shrinkage (real-time inventory tracking). Technology is improving so quickly that it is hard for companies to keep up and stay up-to-date. For example, the self-checkouts have just become a norm; how long until they are fully replaced by "Grab and Go?"
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