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snesbeth

Hotel safety and security systems: Bridging the gap between managers and guests - Scien... - 0 views

www.sciencedirect.com/...S0278431912000795

management security hospitality hotel guests safety

shared by snesbeth on 28 Oct 19 - No Cached
  • Safety and security are important factors in guests’ selection of a hotel.
  • The findings reveal that guests perceive “well-equipped fire prevention systems in accordance with local regulations”, “an emergency plan”, “an emergency lighting system”, “a 24-h uniformed security guard” and “the regular testing of hotel safety and security systems” to be the top five in-house safety and security systems, whereas hotel managers perceive “closed-circuit television systems for hotel public areas”, “emergency lighting systems” and “application of a guest key to activate the lifts to guest floors” to be the third through fifth most important.
  • indicating that managers may require a better understanding of guest expectations.
  • ...1 more annotation...
  • this study discusses the importance of staff safety and security training, the acceptance of high-tech safety and security systems and the need for female guest floors, and provides a number of insights to help hotel managers better understand the needs of their customers,
  • snesbeth on 28 Oct 19
     
    The article is more of a study that was conducted to determine where there may be a gap between the understandings of security for the managers of a hotel and the actual guests. For example, guests believed that the physical appearances of the hotel of where they stayed determined whether the hotel was an actually safe place to stay and managers are more capable of understanding the things needed behind the scenes that guests do not normally see that truly determines whether their hotel establishment is safe or not.
dominiquewalker

Mobile more important to travellers than deodorant | PhocusWire - 0 views

www.phocuswire.com/t-to-travellers-than-deodorant

mobile smartphone smart device

shared by dominiquewalker on 10 Jan 20 - No Cached
  • "the single most indispensable item [travellers] carry with them, ahead of their toothbrush, deodorant and driver's license."
  • a mobile phone is
  • global scale
  • ...6 more annotations...
  • South Korea, Malaysia and Thailand
  • Chinese, South Korean and Japanese.
  • Mexicans
  • Brits, Germans
  • Australians and Americans
  • the sample was asked whether they look for and use "free" wifi hotspots to get connected. Around 70% do so
  • dominiquewalker on 10 Jan 20
     
    The almighty smartphone. Worldwide study, spanning different continents shows a commonality between peoples, and the importance of a smart-device i.e. phone, tablet etc. in their travels.
  • dominiquewalker on 10 Jan 20
     
    This short but sweet article gets straight to the point. It discusses a world wide study that was carried out spanning different continents shows a commonality between peoples, and the importance of a smart-device i.e. phone, tablet etc. in their travels. Demographics included; Chinese, Japanese, American, British and Mexican to name a few. The mobile smart phone was found to be "the single most indispensable item [travellers] carry with them, ahead of their toothbrush, deodorant and driver's license."
hectorpachon

What are the differences between hardware and software? - 0 views

www.computerhope.com/...ch000039.htm

Basic differences between hardware and software

shared by hectorpachon on 16 Jan 20 - No Cached
  • Computer hardware is any physical device used in or with your machine, whereas software is a collection of code installed onto your computer's hard drive. For example, the computer monitor you are using to read this text and the mouse you are using to navigate this web page are computer hardware. The Internet browser that allowed you to visit this page and the operating system that the browser is running on are considered software.
  • A computer needs an operating system that allows both the user and software to interact with the computer hardware.
  • A computer like a thin client and server could be set up to run without a display, keyboard, or hard drive.
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  • Hardware that is not required by the computer is referred to as a peripheral.
  • hectorpachon on 16 Jan 20
     
    "It is very important to know the differences between both words and how they work. Hardware is the physical device used by your computer (monitor, mouse etc) and software is what makes the system inside the computer works (internet browser, applications etcetera)."
tjcamino

Importance of GDS For Travel Agency And Tour Operator - 1 views

www.holidaysimply.com/importance-gds-tour-operator

GDS Travel Agents

shared by tjcamino on 22 Jan 20 - No Cached
  • The Global Distribution System is a tool for travel agents that enables transactions between travel industry service providers and travel agencies.
  • The GDS mainly uses real-time inventory to service provides.
  • why is it important to the travel industry?
  • ...7 more annotations...
  • he channel manager you choose should integrate with your booking system and should also give you the opportunity to customize and update your options
  • alendars will adjust your availability based on the on the resources that you have in your inventory.
  • black-out dates in your online booking system
  • GDS is not connected to an efficient channel manager, you will never be able to update your availability across all of the channels that you use to sell your tours and activities.
  • Independent travel agents, online agents, and travel agencies use this system to search for the best available travel and accommodations rates for their clients
  • GDS systems also support high traffic to the travel sites
  • Global Distribution System may become a more of a direct corporate booking tool rather than the system used exclusively by travel management companies.
  • tjcamino on 22 Jan 20
     
    This article talks about the Global Distribution System (GDS) and how important this is for the travel agents. This systems enables transactions between the travel services that are provided and allows travel agents to see and sell those services. For example, the GDS will allow travel agents to see available hotel rooms & airline ticket rates in live feeds. But the big questions is why is the GDS important to the travel industry? When managed property with a channel manager, the booking system will give the property an opportunity to customize and adjust availability based on inventory and allow to block out dates. Travel agents and online booking systems use the GDS to search for availability and best available rates in real time. If not managed correctly, this could cause issues and over bookings. The GDS systems also support high traffic to the travel sites. The future of the GDS system might in obsolete in the near future and may be a corporate booking took rather than the system used exclusively by travel management companies.
  • ggara004 on 22 Jan 20
     
    Interesting read! This article touches on the importance of GDS for travel agents. It is essential for travel agents to use these systems to effectively sell travel services and updated inventory to consumers in real time. The article concludes that although travel agents use this as their method of booking travel, some hoteliers believe this way of booking may become obsolete in the future. As of today, companies still continue to use GDS as their booking system and does not appear to be leaving anytime soon.
jamigovaerts

How Mobile Technology Elevates Hotel Communication and Operations - 1 views

hoteltechreport.com/...l-communication-and-operations

hospitality software technology hotel business Tech travel solution mobile

shared by jamigovaerts on 28 Aug 20 - No Cached
  • Despite the proliferation and availability of mobile technology, many hotel operations continue to rely on outdated methods of team communication. Together, panelists shared ways to improve guest experience in hotels through enhancing operations and employee experience – and that mobile team communication is the definitive catalyst for best delivering on these goals.
  • - Immediate notifications. No more printed out, or pen and paper announcements. - Housekeeping can turn rooms over more quickly. Most guests simply leave in the morning without staff contact. There’s no way of knowing when the room is ready to be cleaned. With faster occupancy updates, the room conversion process is made more efficient. - Improved access of guest information. Real-time, mobile team communication means better personalization of guest experience and management of expectations.
  • There are many lost opportunities in the hospitality industry when it comes to the connection between hotel guests and employees, but investing in employee communication with a mobile team communication appprovides the following benefits. 1. Allows for consistent, daily information sharing across shifts and hotel team 2. Creates a highly-visible platform to illuminate best practices 3. Facilitates recognition of hotel workforce high achievers
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  • "The experience at a property makes or breaks a guest’s stay. That experience is dependent on the human interactions with your staff as soon they walk in the door of your hotel. If you set your employees up for success, so that they are happy, engaged, and loyal to your hotel, you stand a much better chance of delighting a guest."
  • Targeted emails, accessible via their mobile device, can then be sent out that offer a customized menu of activities and upgrades at your hotel according to their preferences. Mobile hotel communication systems also give your hotel a distinct brand advantage; consumers view mobile-savvy companies and technologies more favorably.
  • How Mobile Technology Elevates Hotel Communication and Operations
    • jamigovaerts
      jamigovaerts on 28 Aug 20
       
      Module 2 Article: With an emphasis on telecommunications, it is only fitting to focus on mobile communication as referenced in this article. As referenced, this article describes the main advantages to mobile telecommunications between guests and staff. By using immediate notifications through text or email it eliminates the carbon foot print of paper, as well as keeps guests more informed on the hotels offerings. In regards to the staff, the housekeeping team is able to turn over rooms quicker as the technology alerts the staff the guest has left. In addition, these items allow for higher guest satisfaction as the information being collected and shared is consistent among all guest and staff view platforms.
marble_bird

ContentServer.pdf - 0 views

shared by marble_bird on 07 Jul 20 - No Cached
  • The development of technology has made it easier for the traveller to book hotel rooms by the website. The number of online websites that provide services for the hospitality industry is on the rise.
  • According to Quinby and Jain (2012) (which research the OTA market in Australia, China, Japan, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore and Thailand), the Asia Pacific’s online travel booking on 2011 is estimated to be US$ 1,6 billion/year and predicted to rise 30% to 40% on the next periods
  • In the hotel industry, the internet has had a big impact on the evaluation of the distribution channel, which pushed the industry from a traditional operation (offline) to an online operation system
  • ...22 more annotations...
  • The use of the internet has changed the hospitality industry by helping organize, promote and market tourism products and services, as well as helping communication, online transaction, and distribution systems for hoteliers and consumers
  • With the growing number of hotels in Indonesia, the number of online websites which offer hotel rooms also increases.
  • this study examines the process of online hotel decision making by focusing on the effect of website quality on the customers’ e-Trust.
  • The two key issues we wish to examine are: (1) whether customer’s perception of the website’s usability influenced e-Trust; and (2) whether customer’s perception of the website’s ease of use influenced their e-Trust.
  • Nowadays there are more travellers than ever that search the internet medium for information of the tourist destination and the process of booking the trip, as evidenced by the increase of information access through the search engine and social media and also online hotel booking
  • A hotel’s website is not only an information channel but also a trading form, where it not only provides news and data, creates a brand image but also works
  • as a sale tool. But this ease does not come without a weakness. Communication by the internet creates uncertainty and risks have become an intrinsic attribute of e-commerce from them complexity and anonymity of online purchase.
  • A good website must be easy to use, understandable, and navigate well (Aziz, 2014). The easiness of using the website’s features can influence the customer’s interest in using the online service and push their booking intention
  • Because OTAs are such an important channel for hotel distribution, the industry should pay close attention to the way hotels are presented on OTA web pages.
  • The level of usability of a website will determine whether a user will stay or leave to find another website
  • website quality becomes the main factor in e-commerce because the perception of the website quality will trigger the customers’ purchase intention directly.
  • The ZEN Rooms website effectively delivers information and adopted a good interaction design to make sure consumers can easily navigate the website and find useful information.
  • Usability refers to whether a hotel’ s website can provide sufficient information about the product and the service, while ease of use showed the level of which a hotel’s website is easy to navigate and customer-friendly.
  • e-Trust is the consumer’s trust or confidence that the seller will not abuse the consumer’s vulnerability .
  • Sparks and Browning (2011) found that consumers depended on the easiness of information processing while evaluating a hotel based on online reviews.
  • risk-taking behaviour based on consumer’s positive expectations of a hotel’s website was called e-Trust. E-Trust plays an important role in online booking because of the risk that comes with online service
  • A hotel’s website that has good usability has a significant result on the consumer’s e-Trust. This finding is in line with previous study from Bai et al. (2008) and Wang et al. (2015) which also stated the significant impact between the usability variable towards online booking intention, where the higher a website’s usability was, it automatically affected customer’s e-Trust and willingness to make an online hotel booking.
  • The effect of usability of the website and ease of use of the website on e-Trust among participants of this research is elaborated upon in Table 1. The data in this table display the outcomes of a multiple linear regression analysis.
  • The other variable in this study, which is the ease of use, did not have any significant result on consumer’s e-Trust. This finding is different from previous studies conducted by Shen and Chiou (2010) and Venkatesh and Agarwal (2006) which stated that a website’s ease of use could help consumer’s online booking intention.
  • There is no significant impact between genders and e-Trust. The findings of this research propose that gender does not play a significant role in the attention of guests toward e-Trust and both genders are highly confident of having online booking purchase of hotel rooms.
  • The current study is not without limitation, such as the scope of the research. Future studies could conduct similar research but through a mobile application instead of the website. The internet keeps developing and there are changing platforms from website to mobile application so the use of mobile in the hotel industry is unsurprising and expected
  • The importance of having information towards the relationship between a website’s usability and consumer’s e-Trust is essential to help maintain the attributes of a website’s quality to keep consumer’s e-Trust of the hotel.
  • marble_bird on 07 Jul 20
     
    This article covers an Indonesian study performed to study factors that influence online bookings of consumers. The main factors considered in the study were the perceived usability of the website and the ease of use. The study found that perceived usability influenced the decisions of the consumer, while the actual ease of use did not.
marble_bird

Roche2016_Article_RecreationalDivingImpactsOnCor.pdf - 0 views

shared by marble_bird on 07 Jul 20 - No Cached
  • Recreational diving on coral reefs is an activity that has experienced rapidly growing levels of popularity and participation.
  • the potential role of dive impacts in contributing to coral reef damage is a concern at heavily dived locations. Management measures to address this issue increasingly include the introduction of programmes designed to encourage environmentally responsible practices within the dive industry.
  • Coral reefs are a threatened, but globally important ecosystem, providing key services to local communities such as coastal defence, sediment production, and fisheries benefits
  • ...45 more annotations...
  • The role of dive supervision was assessed by recording dive guide interventions underwater, and how this was affected by dive group size.
  • Over recent decades, tourism activities benefiting from the pleasing aesthetics and biodiversity of coral reefs, primarily SCUBA diving and snorkelling, have experienced rapidly increasing numbers of participants globally
  • We found evidence that the ability of dive guides to intervene and correct diver behaviour in the event of a reef contact decreases with larger diver group sizes. Divers from operators with high levels of compliance with the Green Fins programme exhibited significantly lower reef contact rates than those from dive operators with low levels of compliance.
  • Damage to corals on dived reefs often occurs as a result of skeletal breakage, particularly in branching species (Guzner et al. 2010;H a s l e ra n dO t t 2008). Tissue abrasion can also result from diver contact (Hawkins et al. 1999), and a recent study reported a higher incidence of coral disease in areas heavily used for recreational diving
  • It is possible that other diver characteristics such as qualification level or dive experience may affect the ability to respond to dive briefings, although several studies have failed to find a correlation between divers’ reef contact rates and experience
  • Due to the difficulties of effectively addressing global stressors, an emerging recommendation is the focus of coral reef management on local scales (e.g. Anthony et al. 2014). A frequent challenge facing managers and policy makers at local levels relates to the maximisation of tourism benefits whilst simultaneously reducing its environmental impacts
  • Alternatively, previous experience and possible affinity and attachment to a specific dive site may influence how closely divers follow pre-dive briefings and affect their behaviour underwater, as suggested by place attachment theory
  • The methodologies which have been developed to minimise the environmental impact of SCUBA diving on coral reefs can be summarised as follows: (1) managing or restricting diver numbers, (2) regulating the locations in which SCUBA diving activities occur, (3) regulating the types of equipment used, and 4) implementing programmes which seek to manage the methods used by the dive industry in providing their services. Restricting diver numbers is based on the concept of a reef dive site’s ‘carrying capacity’; a level beyond which diving impacts become readily apparent.
  • Restriction of SCUBA diving equipment has focused on banning the use of accessories believed to increase reef contacts within marine protected areas such as gloves, muck sticks, or underwater cameras; however, such regulations are often unpopular within the SCUBA diving community
  • Governments and reef managers seek evidence that the effort expended in implementing programmes translates into measurable benefits; however, research into the effectiveness of such programmes at influencing diver behaviour and reducing diving impacts is limited.
  • In this study, we focused on dive operators participating in the Green Fins diving programme at three major dive locations within the Philippines.
  • Nonetheless, levels of dive supervision underwater would intuitively appear to be linked to rates of reef contact, and when examined, the willingness of dive guides to intervene in correcting diver behaviour underwater has been found to significantly reduce diver contact rates
  • Malapascua Island, Moalboal, and Puerto Galera.
  • divers may have been aware that a Green Fins compliance assessment was taking place, but they were unaware that diver contacts with the reef were being specifically recorded. Green Fins environmental assessments and diver observations were conducted simultaneously.
  • Dive guides and guest divers from 44 dive operators participating in the Green Fins programme were followed
  • Diver characteristics with potential to influence underwater behaviour were categorised as the following factors: diver qualification level (three levels), dive experience (five levels), and previous number of dives at site (three levels).
  • Divers were assigned a unique diver number, and then followed and observed underwater for the entire duration of their dive.
  • If the overall group was very large such that the dive guide could not be seen from the rear of the group, the pair immediately behind the dive guide was selected.
  • Compliance with the Green Fins approach was determined by utilising diver contact rates and dive guide intervention rates as at the dependent variables of interest, and by defining dive operators according to those who had received a high score (above the median score) versus those with a low score (below the median score) on the most recent conducted Green Fins assessment
  • The part of the body or item of equipment making contact with the reef was recorded as follows: hand, fin, knee, camera, muck stick (a handheld stainless steel or aluminium rod approximately 30 cm in length) and equipment (e.g. tank, submersible pressure gauges, octopus regulator), and multiple (parts of the body and equipment simultaneously). The time during the dive at which the contact occurred was also recorded.
  • If observable damage (i.e. breakage, obvious physical damage, or injury) occurred as a result of the contact this was recorded, together with the apparent awareness of the diver to the contact, regardless of damage caused.
  • Interventions were defined as an event in which the dive guide intervened in diver behaviour through signalling or demonstrating correct behaviour in order to minimise or prevent contact with the reef.
  • A total of 100 SCUBA divers were observed at three diving locations within the Philippines (Table 1). The majority (72 %) of these divers were male, and diving experience ranged from those completing diving training to those who were instructors elsewhere with experience of hundreds of dives.
  • Following dive completion, divers that had been observed underwater were asked to complete a survey to determine diver characteristics.
  • Most contacts were made with fins (45.5 %, n = 261); however, hands (19.5 %, n = 112) and dive equipment (15.9 %, n = 91) were also major contributors to the total number of contacts
  • Contacts made with a camera (77.7 %) accounted for the highest proportion of contacts which resulted in damage, followed by contacts made with the knee (43.3 %), multiple body and equipment parts (38.2 %), equipment (30.7 %), fins (29.8 %), hands (24.7 %), and muck sticks (23.5 %).
  • A total of 81 interventions were observed (in comparison to 573 reef contacts—see Fig. 4 for the distribution of contacts and interventions);
  • Camera systems were carried by 55 % of divers; camera-wielding divers accounted for 52.7 % of the total contacts made with the reef. Of divers who utilised a camera, 35 % carried a non-specialist compact type and 20 % carried an SLR type within a specialist underwater housing.
  • Mean (±SE) dive time was 49.3 ± 0.42 min. A total of 573 diver contacts with the reef were recorded during all assessed dives.
  • The difference in the frequency of interventions was statistically significant (ANOVA, f = 4.81, P = 0.03)
  • although a significant portion (36 %) appeared unaware of the contact they made with the reef.
  • In addition to overall contact levels, some studies have also quantified reef contacts either as the mean number of contacts per diver over the duration of a dive or the diver contact rate per minute of dive time. The mean contact rates of 5.7 contacts per dive, or 0.12 contacts per min, which we observed at dive sites in the Philippines are lower than those previously reported
  • All divers observed within the present study were diving with operators participating to various degrees in the Green Fins environmentally responsible diving programme.
  • Identifying factors and policy measures which influence SCUBA diver behaviour underwater can help coral reef managers determine where to most effectively focus effort and funding with respect to dive management. In this study, we found that 88 % of the divers observed made at least one contact with the reef at some point
  • Divers who are more conservation aware and who contact the reef less may preferentially choose to dive with environmentally ‘accredited’ dive operators; indeed, this assumption partially drives dive operator participation in such programmes.
  • Underwater interventions by dive guides have been suggested to be the most successful deterrent to diver contact with reefs (Barker and Roberts 2004). In this study, there was no significant difference in the intervention rates between dive centres of high and low Green Fins compliance. Therefore, we cannot attribute the observed difference in diver reef contact rates to differences in intervention rates between these two groups.
  • Studies examining the effect of carrying camera equipment on the frequency of diver contacts with the reef have produced conflicting results.
  • Additionally, the administration of a pre-dive briefing can influence diver contact rates underwater (Medio et al. 1997). The Green Fins programme incorporates the use of a pre-dive briefing that emphasises the importance of refraining from contacting the reef, which would be expected to result in lower diver contact rates.
  • A concern amongst representatives of the diving industry is the use of muck sticks to manipulate animals unnecessarily—pushing animals out of holes for better viewing, stressing animals to show customers their stress behaviour (e.g. an octopus changing colour), and physically breaking hard coral to be used in photographs.
  • When examining the part of the body or dive equipment which made contact with the reef, we found that the majority of contacts were made with fins, in agreement with Krieger and Chadwick (2013) and Rouphael and Inglis (1998).
  • It has previously been noted that dive guides customarily perform different roles at dive locations globally; at some locations, they act primarily to lead the dive group around the reef, whilst at others, pairing with and closely supervising individual divers throughout the course of a dive
  • this suggests that dive guides carry out the closest supervision during the initial phase of the dive and then switch to a ‘dive leader’ role at the front of a dive group.
  • This study provides evidence that the effective implementation of environmentally responsible practices, via programmes designed to reduce diving impacts, may translate to reduced diver reef contacts.
  • Many diver characteristics which might intuitively be expected to impact reef contact rates, such as level of qualification and overall experience, were not significant influencing factors in this study, and high versus low levels of Green Fins compliance did not influence the number of interventions made by dive guides underwater.
  • For continued economic benefit and conservation of Philippine reef dive locations, we recommend that management measures facilitate high levels of compliance with environmentally responsible diving programmes to reduce the impact of diving on coral reefs.
  • marble_bird on 07 Jul 20
     
    This article discusses a study performed at various diving locations in the Philippines to determine whether or not measures taken by Green Fin diving guides were effective in reducing contact with coral reef systems. The study also recorded the average number of contacts with the reef during a dive, as well as the equipment or body part which came into contact with the reef most often, and which actions resulted in the most damage. The study finds that adherence to Green Fin standards or other policies may significantly impact diver behaviors and reduce the level of contact with sensitive coral reefs during SCUBA dives.
obrediajones

Sabre Partnership With Google  |  Press Releases  |  Google Cloud - 0 views

cloud.google.com/...e-and-google-cloud-partnership

shared by obrediajones on 27 May 20 - No Cached
  • Travel industry leader chooses Google Cloud as its preferred cloud provider to accelerate its digital transformation
  • Sunnyvale, CA, January 21, 2020 — Google Cloud today announced it has joined forces with Sabre Corporation [NASDAQ: SABR]— a leading software and technology provider that powers the global travel industry—to help digitally transform the traveler’s experience and co-create the future of travel. 
  • The 10-year-strategic partnership between Google and Sabre will enable the travel provider to improve operational agility while developing new services and creating a new marketplace for its airline,  hospitality and travel agency customers. 
  • ...7 more annotations...
  • As part of the agreement, engineers and business leaders at both companies will work side-by-side on three main initiatives:
  • Improving Sabre’s technology capability
  • Using Google Cloud tools to enhance and optimize travel:
  • Driving a broader innovation framework:
  • Thomas Kurian CEO, Google Cloud. “We believe our partnership will deliver more personalized experiences for travelers, saving time and providing greater convenience that will ultimately raise the standard for the travel industry overall.”
  • Google Cloud provides organizations with leading infrastructure, platform capabilities and industry solutions, along with expertise, to reinvent their
  • business with data-powered innovation on modern computing infrastructure.
  • obrediajones on 27 May 20
     
    Article discusses the newly formed partnership between Google Cloud and Sabre. How this merger seeks to transform the travel landscape by improving operational agility and the offering of new services. Also outlines the partnerships three main initiatives: improving Sabre's technology capability, using Google Cloud tools to optimize travel. and advance the travel ecosystem.
laurenperdomo

Attended vs Unattended Payment Kiosks - 2 views

www.imageholders.com/...nded-unattended-payment-kiosks

shared by laurenperdomo on 30 May 19 - No Cached
  • Self-service payment kiosks are growing in popularity with customers, with 40% of customers preferring to use self-service kiosks over human contact based transactions. Research has shown that by adding self-service, businesses could see a saving of $1-3 million in operational costs.
  • An attended payment terminal is where the sales assistant will activate the transaction.
  • An unattended self-service payment terminal is where the customer will activate the transaction.
  • tgood006 on 30 May 19
     
    More establishments are going to unattended payment kiosk. I remember a little over a year ago McDonald decided to install unattended kiosk. I thought it wouldn't work . Due to taking away from the staffing of the restaurant. This article talks about attended or unattended kiosk. Shaving off 1-3 million dollars off your book will certainly will help profit margins.
  • laurenperdomo on 23 Jun 20
     
    This article states the differences between an attended and unattended payment systems. The article recommends asking your businesses financial getaway or payment handler to advise as to whether your business requires an attended or unattended payment terminal.
  • hankunli on 24 Jun 20
     
    This article explained the differences between attended and unattended POS. The major difference between these two is based on the people who activate the transaction. Attended payment terminals are reliant on a member of staff being present to activate the transaction, while unattended payment terminals are for environments where there will not be a member of staff to assist the transaction. The customer instead will be the one to activate the payment. The conditions for the two are also different. Contactless is also an issue in POS selection.
kburn039

Welcome: The Comparison Between General Purpose Application Software and Function-Speci... - 0 views

utarent2.blogspot.com/...is-software.html

shared by kburn039 on 30 Aug 20 - No Cached
  • Application software are designed to help us to perform a singular or multiple related specific tasks. They're also often called software applications, applications or apps
  • There are two types of application software which is the General Purpose Application Software and the Function-Specific application software.
  • 1) The General Purpose Application SoftwareGeneral purpose application software packages are generally tools that provide specific capabilities, but not in support of a specific purpose.
    • kburn039
      kburn039 on 30 Aug 20
       
      General purpose application software is the most common used. A good example of this would Microsoft Office.
  • ...6 more annotations...
  • Word-Processing Software
  • Spreadsheet Software
  • 2) Function-Specific Application Software
    • kburn039
      kburn039 on 30 Aug 20
       
      Function-Specific Application Software is a software where it has only one use. The use will be very specific and will not have multiple uses. A good example of this software would be Adobe Photoshop.
  • Computer-Aided Design Software
  • Supply Chain Management Software
  • Enterprise Resource Planning Software
  • kburn039 on 30 Aug 20
     
    This article outlines the differences between General Purpose Application Software and Function-Specific Application Software.
esuarezrijsdijk

Trends in Events and Meetings That Will Shape 2020 - By Lauren Hall, Founder & CEO, IVvy - 1 views

www.hotelnewsresource.com/article108713.html

events trends

shared by esuarezrijsdijk on 11 Oct 20 - No Cached
  • we’ve pieced together those innovations and trends across the event and event planning industry that are positioned to shape the next decade
  • it’s important to remember that the experience doesn’t begin and end with the stay or the event itself; instead, it starts before a planner books your venue, long before that first attendee checks-in.
  • When hotels and venue spaces utilize a venue management platform, they’re able to effectively market their space globally, while catering specifically to the needs and process of modern planners.
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  • In the modern world of events, it’s not just about large-scale experiences and conferences. In fact, meeting and small group travel make up a significant portion of the growing demand.
  • Ensure your venue space is equipped for events and meetings of various scale, and work closely with planners to ensure an attentive, personalized experience while bringing their event or meeting to life.
  • event planners are frequently opting for non-traditional settings for their events
  • Hotels should keep in mind that the nature of events may be “non-traditional” as well.
  • In that same breath, we’re witnessing the rapid rise in popularity of wellness-focused events, interactive live experiences, experiencing enhancing AI and VR components, Instagram-worthy backdrops, events centered around sustainability, and more.
  • event planners and venue owners are implored to leverage event technology in a way that strikes a balance between face-to-face and virtual elements. It’s not about using technology for every moment or touch-point, but about using new-age features and platforms to create a frictionless event, engage attendees on a deeper level, and create meaningful, memorable experiences.
  • esuarezrijsdijk on 11 Oct 20
     
    This article provides a concise overview of trends in event planning. First, the importance of the pre-stay experience is addressed, with a mention of venue management technology as an important tool in this regard. Secondly, being prepared to host events of various scales is discussed. Thirdly, alternative venue spaces and experiences are mentioned as fundamental aspects of the current event planning sphere. Finally, the balance between state of the art technology and a personal human touch is brought up as being a defining features of events going forward.
rhera004

Technology in the hospitality industry - exploring the very latest trends - 5 views

www.aurecongroup.com/...ploring-the-very-latest-trends

technology hospitality hotel Tech

shared by rhera004 on 24 Oct 19 - No Cached
  • Digital conference facilities
  • hotels also need to be able to offer access to audio-visual (AV) and digital facilities for conferences.
  • If a hotel has extensive conference facilities, network design becomes critical to ensure indoor mobile phone coverage, Wi-Fi connectivity, VoIP, real time location services (RTLS) and internet protocol television (IPTV)
  • ...51 more annotations...
  • When investing in digital apps for check-ins, room service and other customer-oriented digital interactions, hotel operators are investing in systems and technologies that can personalise the experience for guests, including a guest’s name being displayed on the welcome desk at a digital check-in station;
  • hotel staff can take a more innovative approach by using infrared scanners that will detect body heat within a room and tell cleaning staff that they should rather come back later if the room is currently occupied.
  • NFC technology can also be used to personalise a guest’s experience at a hotel or resort.
  • A boutique hotel that is nestled between Apple’s headquarters and other tech companies, called Aloft Cupertino, has a robot butler called Botlr that is able to move between the various floors of the hotel in order to take items such as toothbrushes, chargers and snacks to guests.
  • Near field communication (NFC) technology is the next-generation short-range high frequency wireless communication technology that gives users the ability to exchange data between devices.
  • Retina scanning is even more accurate and secure
  • than fingerprint scans and hotels like the Nine Zero Hotel in Boston have already installed an iris scan system
  • Marketing, management and hotel developers can no longer work in silos and these technology trends are giving them the opportunities, tools and solutions they need to create memorable experiences
  • 81% of respondents wanted access to mobile video content at hotels and 55% said that mobile content availability at a hotel would influence where they choose to stay.
  • Being able to provide entertainment on tap and mobile content has led to the trend of hotels investing in cloud services.
  • gives hotels the flexibility to expand and adjust their IT needs along with business growth
  • Cloud computing is becoming the norm and we will continue to see hotel groups replacing their legacy IT infrastructure with cloud solutions.
  • take full advantage of technology in this space is using it to communicate how well they are doing (in real time) with respect to their various environmental initiatives (such as real time electricity/water usage reporting, etc.)
  • local area networks (LANs)
  • building services can be automated in order to control lighting, refrigeration, air-conditioning and heating.
  • Besides reducing energy consumption, converged LANs can also be set up to provide a smarter, more personal experience.
  • Another innovative way to offer a keyless experience is through fingerprint-activated room entry systems and retina scanning devices.
  • Installing and maintaining a hotel-wide wireless network may be coupled with costs, but many leading hotel groups have started to install high density Wi-Fi and started to offer in-building mobile phone coverage as guests have come to expect these services during their stay (not only for themselves, but also for their guests if they are hosting a conference or function at the hotel).
  • While the amount of AV and digital equipment that goes into a typical conference room is fairly minimal, staging companies are often hired for various projects in order to equip the facility as required.
  • Guests want to be able to do everything from checking in at a venue’s automated kiosk to ordering room service with a digital device instead of standing in queues and moving around the hotel premises to order food.
  • investing in a check-in/cocierge app requires a small initial investment and can lead to greater efficiency and savings as hotel staff are able to focus on customer service and property developers don’t have to create large static reception desks at each entrance and hotel location.
  • can transfer data at up to 424 kbits/second and the communication is enabled when two devices touch each other, which makes mobile payments (by touching the smart phone to a credit card) an instant, secure process.
  • this technology could also be used to track loyalty points from a guest’s use of the conference facilities or room service.
  • Infrared scanners are now also used to minimise disruptions relating to housekeeping (which is a common complaint from customers).
  • All of these experiences need to be part of an integrated, dynamic system so that the guests’ experiences are at the forefront of the marketing and operational team’s mind.
  • Starwood (owner of the Sheraton, Weston and “W” hotel chains) has already upgraded 30,000 room locks across 150 hotels with this system and Hilton will be implementing a similar system at 10 of their US properties this year. In 2016, they will be deploying the smart room key technology globally.
  • This technology will mean that guests don’t have to worry about picking up keys and front desk staff won’t have to issue new keys in the event that a guest loses their room key.
  • The hotel room’s television, radio and clock are taking a backseat as travellers use their own technology to keep themselves entertained.
  • Many companies in the hospitality industry are already using social media to their advantage as guests check-in on location-based social media apps, tweet about their experience on Twitter and share their holiday photos with friends and followers on Instagram and Facebook.
  • his shift has led to many hotel and leisure groups developing active social media monitoring and communication strategies in order to stay on top of what’s being said about them online
  • Hotels will increasingly install smart room access systems that allow guests to unlock their doors by simply swiping their phones across a keyless pad on the door.
    • rhera004
      rhera004 on 28 Aug 21
       
      This section is talking about designing effective conference facilities/ ensuring your hotel/ facility can accommodate clients technological needs. My thought on this is how can we in the hospitality field accommodate this when we do not yet know the scope of need. We do not know what is to come. Ex. Roads in Europe are incredibly narrow as no one knew cars would be a thing in the future. It's crazy to think buildings and infrastructure can also become obsolete.
  • medical facilities;
    • rhera004
      rhera004 on 28 Aug 21
       
      Super important given the state of things
    • rhera004
      rhera004 on 28 Aug 21
       
      This freaks me out a bit b/c of devices which can aid people in stealing your credit card information in close proximity to you.
  • For example, advertising can be targeted based on gender and age (so if a child walks by a digital sign in the lobby, the advertisement can change to promote a local theme park or the hotel’s kids club
  • hanging a ‘Do Not Disturb
    • rhera004
      rhera004 on 28 Aug 21
       
      Eco-friendly option. I like this!
    • rhera004
      rhera004 on 28 Aug 21
       
      Wireless = More sanitary. No one really thinks about the amount of hands that have been on room key cards...
    • rhera004
      rhera004 on 28 Aug 21
       
      This may be a hard sell for some people. Ex. Conspiracy theorists etc.
  • almost any person checking in at a hotel, resort, spa or lodge, will have a smartphone in their pockets.
    • rhera004
      rhera004 on 28 Aug 21
       
      Social Media is such a powerful advertising tool as well. Have clients work for you. This can also be dangerous if your facility is not running at 100%
    • rhera004
      rhera004 on 28 Aug 21
       
      Can be creepy- but will definitely optimize guest experience.
  • hen processes should be put in place to ensure the right person follows up by communicating with the guest and solving the problem at the hotel.
  • ead to positive change and growth in the industry.
  • l
  • computers no longer see Wi-Fi as a perk, but as a must-have when they check in at a hotel.
  • computers no longer see Wi-Fi as a perk, but as a must-have when they check in at a hotel.
  • I
  • t might not yet be financially feasible for hotels to completely abandon the user pay model, but many of them are re-thinking their current infrastructure and pricing models.
    • rhera004
      rhera004 on 28 Aug 21
       
      Bluetooth speaker system connectivity would be a good idea for hotel rooms.
  • anonymous on 24 Oct 19
     
    The article lists the varies new technology that are becoming more and more of the norm in modern hotels. The first and most important is WIFI. Ten years ago every hotel you went would make you pay for WIFI nowadays guests look for hotels that offer free wifi. Conference facilities are a big thing in larger hotels but they need to be digital. Everyone has a mobile device so making as much as possible available on a guests mobile phone will go a long way. Entertain and clod services are all new technologies being used in hotels as well. Of course social media is a huge part of our day to day world.
  • anonymous on 19 May 20
     
    This article talks about how technology is affecting the hospitality industry. There have been several small technological advances in the industry. Recently, advances have been skyrocketing, especially in the hotel sector. Hotels have been updating their technology year after year striving to stay relevant. Businesses are looking for Digital conference facilities for their conferences/meetings. Where skype and zoom calls can be conducted in a business fashion. There are also hotels that are looking to put in finger scanning devices for room access and infrared scanners for staff members to monitor room activity. This article has several other fantastic advances in technology that could be used in the hospitality industry as a whole.
  • laboygrisell on 25 Aug 20
     
    Technology evolves everyday it keeps getting better and making lives even easier. Guests are attracted to hotels who have the latest technology. This week I saw in social media a friend of mine is currently in Las Vegas and her room had an Echo Dot and she was asking Alexa to turn off the lights and close the shades. That got my attention and is proving the point on how the Hospitality industry has to be at the very top of the latest technology trends.
teallemejia

Keeping Mobile Tech in Hotels Secure with Biometrics | By Court Williams - Hospitality Net - 0 views

www.hospitalitynet.org/...4096433.html

hotels biometrics

shared by teallemejia on 26 Sep 21 - No Cached
  • Biometrics are biological measurements or physical characteristics that can be used to identify individuals.
  • Marriott hotels in China use facial recognition technology for check-in purposes, charging the room fee and deposit automatically to guests' Alipay accounts and providing the room key after identity verification
  • Many hotel chains use large-scale, organization-wide enterprise systems for their IT operations. These require exceptional cybersecurity, controlled user access, and extensive cloud computing capabilities.
  • ...5 more annotations...
  • Hotels are also embracing the Internet of Things for the benefit of guests, to adjust room temperature settings, lighting, voice-controlled room service, operate adjustable beds and other appliances.
  • Many properties are combining augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) for entertainment, convenience, and administrative purposes. AR-powered signage, for example, can help direct guests to check-in or pick-up locations, based on their mobile fingerprint and biometrically-verified identity.
  • The closer the connection between biometric methods and the user, the greater the security. Since a user's personal mobile device is effectively a "closer" link to the individual than a hotel's facial recognition system, one of the benefits of going mobile is increased security of data, employees, guests, finances, and facilities.
  • Mobile biometrics, like any other technology, opens the door to the risks of cybercrim
  • Research from SmarterHQ shows 72% of consumers will only engage with marketing that is personalized to their interests, while 86% don't want to provide their personal information because of privacy concerns. This creates a major conundrum for the hospitality industry.
  • teallemejia on 26 Sep 21
     
    A question we have all been asking is how can our data that we share be safe with businesses as technology continues to improve and progress into the hospitality industry. Biometrics are biological measurements or physical characteristics that are used to identify individuals like fingerprint mapping or facial recognition. Marriott hotels in China are already using facial recognition technology for checking in and charging the room fee and deposit to the guest's account. Many hotels also use biometrics for their IT operations. The closer connection between biometric methods and the user the security is greater. A person's phone is effectively safer than a hotel's facial recognition system and provides increased security of data.
vriverol

PMS in Hotels: Everything You Need to Know About Property Management Systems - 0 views

hoteltechreport.com/...what-is-hotel-pms

shared by vriverol on 30 Jan 23 - No Cached
  • As hotel technology matures, there is less differentiation between vendors; as far as features and functionality, at least 80% is familiar across the best hotel PMS vendors. The actual differentiation is in the design
  • An intuitive interface, as well as an easy-to-read dashboard, go a long way in encouraging employee adoption, reducing training time, and generally improving the working lives of yourself and your team.
  • To maintain guest privacy and payment processing security, Access to sensitive guest information must be restricted. An audit trail Should also be available to track any potential unauthorized user access.
  • ...8 more annotations...
  • A modern property management solution must evolve alongside guest expectations.
  • Modern, cloud-based PMS are capable of automating certain back-office tasks (such as reporting, which we discussed earlier).
  • The right PMS is the one that plays well with your existing tech stack. Without the necessary integrations, a PMS cannot perform its functions correctly
  • Streamlined reporting allows management to spend time on more pressing priorities.
  • When a vendor manages an attractive price, but without reliable support, it’s usually not worth the small savings. Inevitably, systems go down -- and often, the outage occurs during peak usage.
  • The trade-off of short-term savings is rarely worth the long-term reputational damage, staff stress, and missed revenue opportunities related to poor customer service and downtime.
  • When a vendor manages an attractive price, but without reliable support, it’s usually not worth the small savings. Inevitably, systems go down -- and often, the outage occurs during peak usage. The trade-off of short-term savings is rarely worth the long-term reputational damage, staff stress, and missed revenue opportunities related to poor customer service and downtime.
  • Additionally, when assessing PMS software solutions, it's important to consider the cloud-based functionality, real-time occupancy, automation, and revenue management capabilities that can improve your hotel business operations and guest services.
  • vriverol on 30 Jan 23
     
    This article goes over some of the most important things to consider when thinking of investing in a property management system (PMS). It first mentions making sure the the interface is pleasant to look at and easy to use. As most PMSs are the same, design is one of the main differences between the many options someone has. The easier to use and nicer to look at a software is, the easier it is to train employees. It then talks about the importance of maintaining guest privacy and security, especially involving guest payments and sensitive gust information. Automating processes and making sure the technology of the PMS keeps up with guest expectations, as well as procuring a system that is able to work with your existing systems. The integration can sometimes can be expensive, but a hotel systems integrator can work as an alternative if necessary. One of the last points it mentions is to make sure it has streamlined reporting to save time and make sure other necessary tasks can get handled in a timely manner. The last touch point when looking into a PMS is making sure the price also includes a good customer support system. If a PMS is cost effective, but leaves you without answers if the system encounters issues, it's not worth the cost. Cloud-based functionality and keeping up with real-time occupancy are more functionalities that a hotelier could research when choosing the best available PMS for their company.
asanc036

Reinventing Restaurant Experiences Through Facial Recognition - 0 views

www.cyberlink.com/...ces-through-facial-recognition

restaurant experiences facial recognition Hotel software business technology hospitality tech Travel solution mobile

shared by asanc036 on 22 Sep 22 - No Cached
  • Biometric technology
  • offers enhanced health and safety
  • personalizes the dining experience, offers a more efficient bill payment system, and increases patron loyalty
  • ...36 more annotations...
  • Facial recognition technology helps with social distancing and capacity measures by identifying the proximity between individuals
  • facial recognition technology reduces physical contact
  • makes the experience more efficient by instantly scanning a guest
  • 's face for verification and payment.
  • safest technology in identity verification, dramatically reducing the risk of payment fraud.
  • 2. Social distancing and capacity requirements
  • 1. Contactless payments
  • keeps track of the number of people in the store
  • 3. Customer loyalty programs and personalized dining experiences
  • allows restaurants to create personalized experiences for loyal customers, and encourage first-time guests to return.
  • recognized as VIPs,
  • weekly regular who likes his burger rare with no lettuce or tomato, thus increasing customer satisfaction
  • 4. Fast-food restaurant transformations
  • with facial recognition
  • customers
  • don’t need to remember a password or log into an app
  • Facial recognition t
  • turns these kiosks into interactive experiences by recognizing loyalty program members and presenting pe
  • ased on
  • Facial recognition
  • past orders
  • also being employed in drive-through lines
  • saving time
  • 5. Employee systems: access control, time and attendance clocks, and ordering terminals
  • Advanced technologies like FaceMe® can be installed at staff entrances to check body temperature and mask-wearing while accurately identifying employees
  • simplifies clocking-in/out
  • accurate login capabilities without the need for keys or cards.
  • FaceMe SDK
  • FaceMe
  • facial recognition engine
  • to create personalized and efficient customer experiences
  • FaceMe Security
  • It can also display body temperature (when connected to a thermal camera), identify opted-in VIP customers, clock-in/out employees, flag block-listed individuals, and send real-time alerts to security personne
  • software solution that performs facial recognition even if users are wearing a mask.
  • FaceMe Health
  • installed on a PC connected to a camera with thermal imaging capabilities.
  • asanc036 on 22 Sep 22
     
    Biometric Technology is being implemented in restaurants offering better health and safety, personalised dining experiences and efficient payment methods. Restaurants are using facial recognition for the following: 1. Contactless payments - scanning customers' faces for safe payment verification. 2. Social distancing and capacity measures - helps identify proximity between individuals and tracks number of people inside a store. 3. Loyalty programs and personalized dining - opted-in diners are recognized as VIPs giving them personalized service and suggesting past preferences. 4. Fast-food restaurants - customers don't need to remember a password or long into an app. Facial recognition is being implemented in drive-through lines to save time. 5. Employee systems - technologies can check body temperature and accuracy of mask wearing, it also simplifies cocking in and out and gives them login access to the POS terminals.
asanc036

Understanding Digital Business Models: Virtual Restaurants And Ghost Kitchens - 1 views

www.forbes.com/...restaurants-and-ghost-kitchens

restaurants ghost kitchens virtual technology hospitality tech

shared by asanc036 on 28 Sep 22 - No Cached
  • difference between a virtual restaurant and a ghost kitchen
  • both models are part of an emerging restaurant segment that primarily exists online, with no physical storefront and with a major focus on off-premise dining and delivery.
  • a recent report by Statista predicted that worldwide
  • ...27 more annotations...
  • Virtual Restaurants
  • 324 billion in 2022
  • online food delivery revenue will reach over $
  • physical kitchens
  • work with existing restaurants and kitchens, from mom-and-pop diners to big chain
  • perators of commercial kitchen spaces,
  • Typically, an eatery may only be utilizing some 30% productivity out of their kitchen and labo
  • incremental orders can increase revenues and margins, particularly as labor costs rise,
  • boon for existing restaurateurs who have off hours, where the kitchen and staff are under-utilized
  • only exists online
  • designed and optimized for an off-premise (only pick-up and delivery) experienc
  • 30 or more individual commercial kitchens, with one central area for delivery drivers to pick up from
  • matter
  • additional costs, including rent, equipment, freezer/storage space, garbage pickup, staff salaries, runner fees
  • virtual restaurants
  • require a top-notch marketing plan
  • A winning digital-only restaurant marketing plan should include leveraging national partnerships with the online ordering/delivery platforms, sophisticated digital marketing, search engine optimization and social media
  • professional food photography, menu design
  • strategies
  • if you are not listed on a certain app, you simply don’t exist
  • reviews
  • typically house a variety of brands, from national players like Chick-fil-A and Wendy’s
  • more than ever
  • about
  • mindful
  • arrival experience of the food
  • Set up your own website
  • asanc036 on 28 Sep 22
     
    Alex Canter, CEO of Nextbite and Ordermark explains the difference between virtual restaurants and ghost kitchens. Both exist online, with no physical storefront. A report by Statista predicted online food delivery revenue will reach over $324 billion in 2022. Virtual Restaurants - only exist online, work with existing restaurants and kitchens. Helps increase productivity of their kitchen and labor, increase revenue and margins. Ghost Kitchens - Physical kitchens designed off-premise (pick-up and delivery only). Some have 30 or more individual commercial kitchens for rent and one area for delivery drivers to pick up. These kitchens house many brands and new local restaurants for a rent fee. Virtual restaurants require great marketing strategies, such as digital marketing, SEO, social media, professional photography and menu design. Some of the strategies suggested for success are utilising and being part of apps, focusing on the reviews, setting up a website.
peacejj22

Technology in the hospitality industry - exploring the very latest trends - 1 views

www.aurecongroup.com/...gy-in-the-hospitality-industry

shared by peacejj22 on 26 Aug 22 - No Cached
  • Hotel guests expect to be able to connect to the internet seamlessly and without too many interruptions, leading hotels to invest in better, faster Wi-Fi infrastructure so that people can do business and use their technology devices with ease when they book their stay.
  • Hotels are also starting to move away from user pay models. In the past, hotels could charge exorbitant rates and guests knew they would have to pay if they wanted to go online. Installing and maintaining a hotel-wide wireless network may be coupled with costs, but many leading hotel groups have started to install high density Wi-Fi and started to offer in-building mobile phone coverage as guests have come to expect these services during their stay (not only for themselves, but also for their guests if they are hosting a conference or function at the hotel).
  • Digital conference facilities
  • ...5 more annotations...
  • including a guest’s name being displayed on the welcome desk at a digital check-in station; their food preferences or past purchases being displayed in a digital room-service order system; and similar.
  • A boutique hotel that is nestled between Apple’s headquarters and other tech companies, called Aloft Cupertino, has a robot butler called Botlr that is able to move between the various floors of the hotel in order to take items such as toothbrushes, chargers and snacks to guests.
  • Near field communication (NFC) technology is the next-generation short-range high frequency wireless communication technology that gives users the ability to exchange data between devices.
  • NFC technology
  • Entertainment on tap
  • peacejj22 on 26 Aug 22
     
    This article plainly puts on display new aspects of technology that are currently being adopted within the hospitality industry. Wi-Fi infrastructure overhauls, digital conference facilities, and the latest in NFC technology are all touched upon in this article. I liked this article because it puts on display aspects of the industry I had not originally put thought to as being constantly changing.
mmdmd99999

Disadvantages of Cloud Computing - Cloud Academy Blog - 0 views

cloudacademy.com/...sadvantages-of-cloud-computing

shared by mmdmd99999 on 19 Jan 21 - No Cached
    • darielmolano
      darielmolano on 19 Jan 21
       
      Despite its benefits, cloud computing has its disadvantages. An outage could happen as well as downtime. Now, there are ways to minimize the effects of downtime and outage such as multi-region deployments
  • Cloud computing has benefited many enterprises by reducing costs and enabling a focus on one’s core business competence
  • here can be disadvantages to cloud computing, especially in smaller operations.
  • ...15 more annotations...
  • key disadvantages and share tips and best practices that your teams can employ to address them.
  • Since cloud computing systems are internet-based, service outages are always an unfortunate possibility and can occur for any reason.
  • Best practices for minimizing planned downtime in a cloud environment
  • storing data and important files on external service providers always opens up risks.
  • Their dependence on remote cloud-based infrastructure meant taking on the risks of outsourcing everything.
  • Best practices for minimizing security and privacy risks
  • Even the best teams suffer severe attacks and security breaches from time to time.
  • Best practices to help you reduce cloud attacks
  • Since the cloud infrastructure is entirely owned, managed, and monitored by the service provider, it transfers minimal control over to the customer.
  • Best practices for maintaining control and flexibility
  • asy switching between cloud services is a service that hasn’t yet completely evolved, and organizations may find it difficult to migrate their services from one vendor to another.
  • Best practices to decrease dependency
  • Pay-as-you-go cloud services can provide more flexibility and lower hardware costs, but the overall price tag could end up being higher than you expected.
  • Best practices to reduce costs
  • the suitability of cloud computing for your specific use case should be assessed in a risk-based evaluation.
  • darielmolano on 19 Jan 21
     
    Cloud computing has its disadvantages like outage and downtime
  • kesca010 on 26 Oct 21
     
    This article speaks on some disadvantages of Cloud computing all while providing ways to tackle these threats. For example, other than the main and common disadvantages it also touches on is the switching between cloud services. This can be seen due to the lack of growth within the cloud system. Eventually the gaps between servers can cause risk of security and loss of information.
  • mmdmd99999 on 22 Jun 22
     
    cloud computing disadvantages: downtime, security and privacy, vulnerability to attack, limited control and flexibility, vendor lock-in, cost concerns
mmoutsatsos

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).
  • ...46 more annotations...
  • 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.
Diana Sardina

Hotel security demands more investment in latest integrated systems | Security News - S... - 0 views

www.sourcesecurity.com/...co-1546-ga.4176.html

shared by Diana Sardina on 26 Sep 12 - No Cached
  • The contribution to profit, or the perceived lack of it, is one of the major reasons why security is often seen almost as an afterthought by hoteliers
  • Because security is not profitable, investors and hotel operators are reluctant to invest in safety and security
    • Diana Sardina
      Diana Sardina on 26 Sep 12
       
      The security department is a non revenue department and therefore hoteliers prioriotize technology investment into departments that bring money to the company.
  • active security components", include video surveillance (CCTV), access control, intrusion detection systems and X-ray machines at the hotel's main entrances
  • ...11 more annotations...
  • , evacuation, fire extinguishing and danger management processes
  • Security cameras in the hotel lobby, coded access cards - that's it
    • Diana Sardina
      Diana Sardina on 26 Sep 12
       
      Hoteliers are aware of the continuous threat we live in, but they prefer to ignore it since the cost of installing advanced technologies to prevent it is too high.
  • hard" security systems, which can help avert or manage serious threats such as terrorist attacks.
  • investors or owners of a hotel property often ignore these chain-specific security standards for cost reasons and provide budgets that cover only the minimum required by law.
  • between different types of "passive" security
  • hotels is very simplistic: security cameras in the lobby or other public areas and coded access control cards for elevators and rooms
  • We have highly sophisticated danger management systems today, particularly at airports, elements of which could be implemented in large hotels or connected to professional expert systems via remote security service centres
  • Outside of "classic trouble spots" such as the Middle East, people have a false sense of security.
    • Diana Sardina
      Diana Sardina on 26 Sep 12
       
      In the United States we have forgotten about 911 and we think that as long as we are here and not in the middle east we are "safe".
  • However, the vast majority of hotel operators are reluctant to make additional voluntary investments. Even insurance companies have not really taken up the opportunities presented
    • Diana Sardina
      Diana Sardina on 26 Sep 12
       
      I would have thought that insurance companies will force hotels to be more proactive in security measures. But reading this article makes me realize that we are very vulnerable.
  • The effective interlink between security equipment and security processes to protect persons and assets in real time is the main issue.
  • Hotels may be concerned about the costs of higher-level security systems but criminal activity could cost a hotel its reputation and not to mention, a person his or her life
  • Diana Sardina on 26 Sep 12
     
    This articles is an eye opener on how lightly we take hotel security. There are several new technologies designed to prevent security issues and we do not consider them, simply because they are too expensive and we feel a false sense of security since our country is not located in the middle east. The reality is that deep inside we all remember 911 and we see news every day of how much hate some people have againts us. Security should be taken much more seriously.
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