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POS Systems - Why You Need A POS System - 0 views

  • The high volume of cash and credit cards that pass through a restaurant each day make a POS system a necessary. Not only does a POS system track every penny of your sales, many POS programs also act as credit card processors. This makes swiping credit cards more secure for both the customer and the business. Servers are accountable for all their sales, and it is impossible to alter checks in the computer unless you have the password. This helps cut down on employee theft.
  • Remember all that money you saved on bookkeeping? You may end up spending it on your tech guy, to help set up the POS and perform any trouble shooting. A POS system doesn’t have the same life span as good old fashioned cash register. You will need to replace parts, update software and eventually need to replace it entirely with a new model. New POS systems come with limited warranties and tech support, but just like every other piece of equipment, the problems always seem to start after the warranty has run out. For this problem, you can always buy extra tech support.
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    This is an article simply introduce the basic function of the point of sales system. The author explain the reason it is useful in restaurant business,including reduce employee theft,keep track of sales.What is more, it plays an important role as a bookkeeping system since it help prepare payroll, keep track of food usage and so on. However,more attention should be paid to their drawback because it may result in information losses related to the business transaction. The restaurant manager should be aware of these potential problems and take actions to make it better serve the property.
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    POS system simplifies communications between the kitchen and the wait staff, tracks production procedure. It is a effective tool to organize profit and save cost. However, POS system has the common drawbacks of electronic technology that is the restaurant may lose data if it happens to crash. In addition, restaurant manager need to replace parts of POS system, update software or buy a new one.
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Fast Talk: Restaurant Software "By Waiters, For Waiters" | Fast Company - 0 views

  • It’s a restaurant management system. It handles everything from taking customers’ orders to modifying tickets as necessary, to handling discounts and gratuities, and processing credit cards. It can also handle inventory management, payroll, and get tip averages.
  • We charge a flat fee of $999 for the software
  • Most setups also involve an iPad, a cash drawer, two printers, and a credit card reader.
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  • You can download it for free from the App Store.
  • If users like it, then they call us and say, “I want to proceed, what do I do?”
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    Two former restaurant servers have developed software that provides an end-to-end point-of-sale (POS) system that allows taking and submitting orders, printing kitchen slips, customer receipts and processing payments-all using an iPhone, iPod touch or iPad. Ambur does not require a computer on the back end. Instead the hand-held device is the hub. The program can be loaded up by any iOS device and run on a wireless network. Waiters can easily fulfill customer requests right at the table. One drawback is that some customers have complained because they thought the waiter was texting on their iPhone.
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What is mobile technology and what are the benefits? | Business Link - 0 views

  • Mobile technology is exactly what the name implies - technology that is portable. Examples of mobile IT devices include: laptop and netbook computers palmtop computers or personal digital assistants mobile phones and 'smart phones' global positioning system (GPS) devices wireless debit/credit card payment terminals
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    This article talks about what is mobile technology, mobile technology is widely used in the world today and a variety of communications technologies are based on mobile devices. Those devices are such as wireless fidelity, Bluetooth, third generation and so on so forth. It is lots of benefits for mobile computing. Mobile computing can increase the service you offer your customers. Also, more powerful solutions are able to link you directly into the office network when working off site. You can access your accounting systems or database while working off site. However, some drawbacks of mobile technology also exist. There are costs involved in setting up the equipment and also training required to let people know how to use mobile devices. In addition, the data are not secure under mobile IT devices.
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Wanted: Crackberry Netiquette - 0 views

  • Thanks to the ever-growing presence of portable wireless devices in professional circles, your attendees are likely to find distraction during a meeting in their cell phones, laptops, or personal digital assistants (PDAs). For instance, handheld Internet devices called BlackBerries are proving especially popular among execs--in fact, they're sometimes called "CrackBerries" because of their addictive quality. That's why so many white-collar workers can't stop checking their e-mail while they're supposed to be paying attention. Since portable wireless technology is still relatively new, rules of etiquette have not yet been uniformly established. A 2004 survey by Menlo Park, CA-based Robert Half Technology found that two-thirds of chief information officers think technology-related blunders are increasing in the workplace. This would include behavior at meetings, where the most common offenses include leaving cell-phone ringers on, sending instant messages and e-mail using wireless devices, and typing on laptops out of turn. Internet etiquette, or "Netiquette," is a sore spot as well. The unchecked use of wireless devices at meetings is a drawback of the new gadgets
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    Source: Successful Meetings; Mar2005, Vol. 54 Issue 3, p28-34; Author: Ben Chapman bchapman@successfulmeetings.com I am posting this article because if points out another netiquette issue, which is having consideration for those outside your internet access zone, such as the public nearby, companions, and most importantly, your business supervisors and peers. This article discusses the pitfalls of technology when it comes to conducting meetings, whereas the attendees are not fully engaged due to their focus on their personal devices. While it was posted in 2005, and stating that establishment of etiquette rules are yet to be established, I still do not see indication seven years later that this trend of attentiveness towards one's device over the person next to you (or presenting to a group) has changed for the better. Not only that, but apparently meeting attendees have actually emailed the presenter to express their boredom with the meeting, and while it's good for coordinators to know how engaged the audience is, it still is very rude. The article does say that "awareness of etiquette is rising as technology matures" and "it's hip to have manners," but I don't see it in school nor in the workplace. Employers have all adopted guidelines regarding use of personal devices to limit use during work hours, and even to constrain employees online social activities to forbid use of their company name or to post disparaging comments. I find it sadly amusing that the very instruments which are meant to increase productivity and provide increased communication and professional interaction is becoming the very opposite in the workplace and during professional development venues.
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IBM Security Tool Can Flag 'Disgruntled Employees' - The CIO Report - WSJ - 0 views

  • A new International Business Machines Corp.IBM -0.15% security tool uses Big Data to help CIOs detect internal and external security threats in new ways—and can even scan email and social media to flag apparently “disgruntled” employees who might be inclined to reveal company secrets
  • The new tool, called IBM Security Intelligence with Big Data, is designed to crunch decades worth of emails, financial transactions and website traffic, to detect patterns of security threats and fraud.
  • the new platform, based on Hadoop, a framework that processes data-intensive queries across clusters of computers, will allow CIOs to conduct sentiment analysis on employee emails to determine which employees are likely to leak company data,
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  • flagging workers who may be nursing grudges and are more likely to divulge company information.
  • The platform also helps companies protect against hacker attacks and fraud by allowing security personnel to look for patterns in past attacks
  • More and more companies are using Big Data to discover the pattern of security lapses as they struggle to keep up with emerging threats.
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    I believe every business, especially if it is a huge corporation, should protect and control their company's data. A company's data falling into the wrong hands can be a huge drawback for the company, especially if it comes into contact with a competitor. This article explains how IBM have introduced a new security tool with Big Data to identify any suspicious internal and external security threats as well as flag any company secrets from displease employee's emails and their social medias. The new system can alert any frauds and risks from decade worth of emails, financial transactions, and websites. CIOs will be able to conduct a sentiment analysis on employees to see which worker is the most likely to expose company's information. Some can argue that employees have the right to post anything on their social media's accounts but if an employee still is employed by the company then it should be all bets off. The company should have all rights in making sure their information does not get leaked out by an employee who is simply having a bad day.
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Why is Computer Networking Important? | Digital Divide Council - 1 views

  • Information is the building block for effective communication.
  • This mainstream technology has proven to be an effective means to enhance proficient, flexible and streamlined communication while maximizing on productivity and resources.
  • Computer networking is a pool of integrated computers configured to one another.
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  • Computer networking enhances seamless communication, cohesive functioning, and resource sharing.
  • Personal Area Networks are interconnected technology devices that serve a single individual within one facility.
  • LANs are limited to a single building like an official establishment.
  • MAN covers a distinctly larger are than LAN. MAN consists of configured computers covering a town, city or campus.
  • WAN covers a larger geographical area than MAN. The network connects a country or even continents.
  • HAN is a computer network limited to a defined boundary like a house or home office.
  • Computer networks reduce your hardware costs significantly.
  • resource pooling is efficient.
  • This eliminates the need to buy single IT assets for each employee.
  • With a central server, you lower the number of storage servers needed. And you increase the efficiency of operations.
  • You can access your data from any device. This enhances free movement while accessing your data wherever you may be.
  • Computer networking is a massive boon to the communication landscape. Networking allows you to send and receive text messages and files in real time.
  • Employees can download and exchange corrupt files which expose your server to viruses and malware. Shared resources open doors of opportunities for security breaches.
  • Small equipment such as modern routers is expensive. The networks also need regular monitoring and maintenance.
  • Computer networks are flexible, but employee productivity is a concern.
  • Quality technological solutions are a significant determinant of the success of any business.
  • Computer networking offers immense technological solutions to businesses and institutions in various formats.
  • “To win in the marketplace, you must first win in the workplace”- Doug Conant.
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    Computer networking is essential within organizations to build effective communication and allows sharing of resources. Various forms of computer networks each serve a specific purpose based on the size of area being served. Computer networking has many advantages but also has drawbacks that must be considered. Networks have the ability to reduce costs, increase storage, enhance flexibility, and provide easy access to information. Despite this, computer networks are subject to the threat of security breaches and can be very costly for an organization. Employees may also find themselves being distracted by the vastness of information made available by the Internet. In all, computer networks can offer countless solutions to technological problems within organizations.
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HandheldWireless_POSRest.pdf - 0 views

shared by marble_bird on 09 Jul 20 - No Cached
  • As surprising as it may seem, handheld ordering systems have been around for over 20 years.
  • Handheld wireless POS systems are a portable version of a POS system which is defined as the time and place in which a transaction is made. Point of sale computer systems include: cash registers, optical scanners, magnetic card readers, and special terminals.
  • hose minutes equate to greater table turnover and more profits. It is these benefits which lead to cost savings and return on investment for the purchase of a handheld POS system.
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  • Handheld wireless Point of Sale (POS) systems are a portable version of a POS system, which is defined as the time and place in which a transaction is made. Point of sale computer systems include cash registers, optical scanners, magnetic card readers, and special terminals.
  • This market provides a large opportunity for the handheld wireless POS system in today’s customer satisfaction driven industry, especially since the once costly systems are finally poised to make the transition from niche product to mainstream acceptance
  • These benefits lead to cost savings and return on investment for the pur chase of a handheld POS system. Customers are the reasons restaurants are in business, and the time saved by using a handheld device, rather than waiting in line to place an order on a traditional POS system that averages over four min utes per order, can be used to better serve the guests.
  • Handhelds can also ensure accuracy by prompting servers with cooking temperatures and salad dressing choices and also offering up-selling suggestions.
  • One option for the handheld devices is a portable receipt printer that can allow servers to print out checks instantly without waiting in line at the POS station. Customers can also pay immediately if the handheld POS systems also offer credit card payment capability with a swipe area built into the unit.
  • This tech nology can also be used to inform a server when an item has been 86’d (no lon ger available) enabling the customer to make another selection immediately rather than finding out minutes later having the guest be even more disap pointed.
  • a key advantage to what handheld POS system a restaurant purchases will be what ports it has to hook up bar-code readers, cash drawers, voice-over IP capability, printers, fingerprint recognition and other emerging technologies
  • Some handhelds can even be used for back office inventory control before the restaurant opens by de-coupling software applications onto the interface (On Technology, 2004). Other benefits will be handheld systems that are easy to upgrade and service.
  • While many of the drawbacks and problems are only perceived or occur only in early models, some are still around today and just emerging.
  • the largest problem and reason that every restaurant doesn’t im plement a handheld POS system is cost. Even though the costs are starting to come down, it is still a pricey investment especially for smaller restaurants.
  • Restaurants need to budget for installation costs, training costs, printing materials, system supplies, electricity, power protec tion devices, software upgrades, modifications and the costs of supporting the systems/improvements (Scavone, 2003). These costs add up quickly.
  • Also, needing complex and error-prone configuration actions, like configuring security settings, is another security drawback
  • RevPASH, or revenue per available seat-hour, is the mathematical way to see the value of purchasing a handheld wireless POS system.
  • Although restaurant problems such as reservation issues cannot be solved with easier more efficient POS systems, such issues of duration management can.
  • operators could realize a 9% increase in revenue if managers “cut dining time from one hour to 55 minutes, without making customers feel rushed.”
  • If the cause of a restaurant’s long table time and low turnover is due to the time it takes servers to get the order from the guest to the kitchen and also the time is takes a guest to close out a check, then implementing handhelds would be a way to shorten the length of those times.
  • Unfortunately, going handheld doesn’t solve all problems, and the kitchen overcooked a guest’s filet mignon. Mike handles the situation by apologizing and notifying the manager on his handheld wireless POS system.
  • use the same handheld device during the day but load it up as an inventory device and complete her inventory and or dering in 1/3 the amount of time, thanks to the same radio frequency identifica tion technology that lets the hostesses and servers know who is in the restaurant.
  • When a customer signs up for a customer appreciation card, all of their preferences are stored in the cus tomer database
  • These marketing attempts have helped bring in more business.
  • The menu is also more effective because data mining was used to determine what items bring in the most revenue, what items have the highest margin, and what less popular items are most popular with customers who bring in a large amount of business.
  • This market provides a large opportunity for the handheld wireless POS sys tem in today’s customer satisfaction driven industry, especially since the once costly systems are finally poised to make the transition from niche product to mainstream acceptance
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    The article provides a brief history of POS technology in the hospitality industry and studies the pros and cons of its applications in the restaurant industry. The study, published in 2004, focuses primarily on handheld POS devices that allow consumers to place orders and order checks independent of serving staff. The article finds that handheld POS systems have potential in this market to bring additional profits and increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
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What is Proximity Marketing? How Does it Work? - 0 views

  • Proximity marketing is a marketing technique whereby recipients are targeted with marketing messages based on their vicinity. Simply put, it’s when you send ads to people who are close by your venue
  • WiFi-equipped smartphone these days and logs into public hotspots, meaning that you only need the right software to collect customer data and advertise to them using your guest WiFi.
  • The way it works is that when a customer logs into your guest WiFi network, you collect data about their device (specifically the MAC number of the device), based on which you can “follow” the customer around the venue and later identify them when they return
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  • QR codes
  • Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
  • NFC stands for “near field communication
  • pay at the store with your phone
  • QR codes are scannable barcodes
  • 5 proximity marketing technologies you need to know
  • An example would be when you enter a store and get a push notification on your phone with a discount for your shopping, or when you scan a QR code at an event to download promotional materials.
  • How to best use proximity marketing?
  • How does it work?
  • One of the easiest, yet most versatile ways to implement proximity marketing in your venue is to use WiFi.
  • This platform should have indoor positioning features, so that you can easily locate your customers, and WiFi marketing features, so that you can effectively communicate with them when they are nearby.
  • This is a somewhat antiquated method compared to the other ones we’re discussing in this article, but it has its benefits.
  • This solution has been making waves at various conferences and events.
  • it requires extreme proximity (we’re talking millimeter to centimeter range), so it’s less versatile than the other technologies discussed.
  • even though most people can turn on Bluetooth on their devices, they don’t necessarily do that. And even if they do, that’s only half your road to successful marketing with BLE.
  • Similarly to BLE, geofencing with GPS requires the user to turn on the location services on their phone, as well as have a medium of communication with you
  • What is proximity marketing?
  • sales
  • if you notice that someone visited your store several times
  • but never made a purchase, it’s time to act! Pop in their mailbox, offer a discount,
  • loyalty
  • behavior analysis
  • indoor navigation
  • gamification
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    wifi, QR codes, NFC, BLE, GPS
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    This article discusses how marketing technology is utilized for proximity marketing. By targeting recipients with marketing communications based on their proximity, proximity marketing is a marketing strategy. It uses many technologies, like WiFi, BLE, NFC, or GPS, and can be done for a variety of reasons, including advertising, feedback, and customer service, to deliver advertisements to individuals who are nearby your location. An illustration would be if you scanned a QR code at an event to download promotional materials, or if you entered a business and received a push notification on your phone with a discount for your purchases. One of the simplest and most adaptable methods to use proximity marketing in your venue is through WiFi. You gather information about a customer's device when they sign into your guest WiFi network. Although a fairly outdated technique, QR codes have several advantages. It is incredibly simple, affordable, and quick to install. This compromises its effectiveness, although, for some applications, it will be adequate. The user is directed to a certain website by these scannable barcodes. At numerous conferences and events, the QR code solution has generated a lot of buzzes. Exhibitors utilize it to provide background information about their brand that cannot otherwise be given in the booth because it is so subtle and affordable. You can use your phone or smartwatch to make a purchase at the store using near-field communication (NFC) technology. NFC is less adaptable than the other technologies since it demands close contact and is not as widely used as WiFi or QR code readers. Although it's a less well-known technology, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) access points perform similarly to WiFi access points. Although the majority of individuals can enable Bluetooth on their devices, they don't always do so. However, you need a medium, such as an app that they have downloaded, and you need to put BLE beacons at your location to communicate with g
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    This article discusses how marketing technology is utilized for proximity marketing. By targeting recipients with marketing communications based on their proximity, proximity marketing is a marketing strategy. It uses many technologies, like WiFi, BLE, NFC, or GPS, and can be done for a variety of reasons, including advertising, feedback, and customer service, to deliver advertisements to individuals who are nearby your location. An illustration would be if you scanned a QR code at an event to download promotional materials, or if you entered a business and received a push notification on your phone with a discount for your purchases. One of the simplest and most adaptable methods to use proximity marketing in your venue is through WiFi. You gather information about a customer's device when they sign into your guest WiFi network. Although a fairly outdated technique, QR codes have several advantages. It is incredibly simple, affordable, and quick to install. This compromises its effectiveness, although, for some applications, it will be adequate. The user is directed to a certain website by these scannable barcodes. At numerous conferences and events, the QR code solution has generated a lot of buzzes. Exhibitors utilize it to provide background information about their brand that cannot otherwise be given in the booth because it is so subtle and affordable. You can use your phone or smartwatch to make a purchase at the store using near-field communication (NFC) technology. NFC is less adaptable than the other technologies since it demands close contact and is not as widely used as WiFi or QR code readers. Although it's a less well-known technology, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) access points perform similarly to WiFi access points. Although the majority of individuals can enable Bluetooth on their devices, they don't always do so. However, you need a medium, such as an app that they have downloaded, and you need to put BLE beacons at your location to communicate with g
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    This article explains what proximity marketing is and five different ways it is used through. Proximity marketing is used through WIFI, QR Codes, NFC (near field communication), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) Beacons, and GPS. In addition to going in detail about all those, this article also explains how proximity marketing helps the company. It can help by boosting sales, retargeting, building loyalty, behavior analysis, indoor navigation and gamification.
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Emerald | Have human resource information systems evolved into internal e-commerce? - 0 views

  • Human resources (HR) have been a well-established function in organizations for decades,
  • the department was typically perceived by many organizations as a “necessary evil,” that is to say, as an essential but in no way profitable or advantageous element,
  • even at the current time HRIS is not limited to technological elements alone, such as computer hardware and software applications, but also includes the people, policies, procedures, and data required to manage the HR function.
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  • Nevertheless, these well-accepted attributes of HR have been challenged in the past few years, as several indicators reflect fundamental changes within the HR function,
  • although little has changed in this function over the past decades, there are growing expectations that HR will improve corporate competitive advantages by adding real measurable value to the organization.
  • The apparent difficulties in upgrading HR to a strategic position in organizations result in missed opportunities especially in hospitality and tourism, where the human capital has substantive potential to improve the competitive advantage of enterprises, particularly due to the growing competitiveness of the industry, as well as the centrality of the human element in the delivery of hospitality products and services
  • The second change in contemporary HR which, interestingly, is closely related to the previous one, is the growing trend of incorporating advanced information technology (IT) in HR practices.
  • There is extensive evidence to the growing transfer of HR functions to digital formats, as can be seen in the growing popularity of human resource information systems (HRIS) among organizations. HRIS is currently perceived as one of the important factors influencing the role of the HR function, as well as the workplace as a whole. Although in many aspects, technology remains under-utilized in HR functions (Jones and Hoell, 2005), recently its effects have begun to be evident in many organizational aspects,
  • Furthermore, it is widely argued that the adoption of HRIS is likely to promote HR to the awaited position of strategic partner in the organization. The main reason for this is that by using HRIS, HR professionals can improve their performance by gaining better knowledge of the organization and its employees, thus facilitate participation in strategic planning and implementation. In addition, by improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the HR day-to-day administrative tasks, HRIS allows the HR staff to dedicate more time to strategic decision making and planning, which consequently provides more value to the organization to enhance its position within it
  • modern HRIS make optimal use of internet and web capabilities for performing their tasks
  • successful HRIS support the planning and implementation of managerial key processes in the organization, such as executive decision making, technology selection, interdepartmental integration, and organizational reporting structures.
  • Intranet-based employee self-service (ESS) provides employees direct access, mainly through a web browser but also through a centralized kiosk, to personal HR-related information. Thus, the employees can individually handle transactions that used to be carried out by HR personnel,
  • Both MSS and ESS create a trend of delegation of responsibilities and activities that were once considered to be the domain of HR professionals and administrative personnel, directly to employees and managers
  • HRIS was seen mostly as a special form of office automation systems, the emphasis being on reducing costs and staff while making the standard HR tasks more efficient
  • In addition, in today's workplace the HR tasks have become more complex, along with organizational trends such as globalization, consolidations, strategic partnerships, and greater than ever governmental and regulatory reporting requirements for employees.
  • Therefore, from the administrative perspective, by providing powerful computing capabilities, HRIS are changing and improving procedures and processes that were carried out less efficiently before,
  • the automation of routine transactions provides HR professionals with time to perform strategic functions related to the human capital
  • HRIS allow the firm to be proactive in HR planning, by giving managers a constant flow of employee information
  • since HRIS can significantly improve the way employees and managers communicate with each other through various communication channels, this improves the flow of information and expertise throughout the organization, thereby enhancing the firms' strategic capabilities
  • Another prominent perceived characteristic of the HR function has been its reliance on relatively low-tech methods in implementing its tasks
  • Although HRIS can provide both administrative and strategic advantages, it should be noted from the onset that they are usually expensive systems to purchase and implement. Designing and implementing customized HRIS, adapted to the specific needs of the organization, will significantly enhance its functionality, but will result in increased software and hardware costs, as well as time-to-deployment
  • the initial costs of developing such HRIS are high,
  • In order to reduce the costs of HRIS, an organization can purchase off-the-shelf applications composed of HR database programs, aimed at meeting the general needs of HR functions
  • These findings point to the vital need of the HR function to provide evidence of the effectiveness of HRIS, for the purpose of attaining the executive management support for the change.
  • for a successful implementation of HRIS, it is no less important to obtain the support of managers and employees in the organization. Although modern HRIS offer clear advantages to managers, through the use of MSS, for better management of their staff, the implementation of such systems is likely to be followed by a certain level of resentment on the part of the managers. Since MSS transfer the responsibility of performing employee HR-related transactions from the HR staff to the direct managers, many of them are frustrated since they feel that additional administrative tasks are being imposed on them
  • Another relatively common problem, concerning both the implementation and the flowing management of HRIS, is the question of who is in charge of the system. Since the successful development of HRIS requires the input of both the IT and the HR departments, it is not uncommon for disputes over areas of responsibility to break out between these departments.
  • Other territorial conflicts around HRIS may arise when departments feel that the system expropriates some of its authorities; for example, the payroll department might resist HRIS that combines payroll functions. A possible solution to such a problem can be the establishment of cross-functional teams that run HRIS projects
  • the implementation of HRIS raises both ethical and legal issues that need to be addressed by the organization. First, the use of relational database technology provides access to more detailed employee information than ever before.
  • Second, HRIS usually contain private information on the employees, while the access to this information is often allowed to employees outside HR, as well. As a result, some employees feel that their private lives are not protected adequately.
  • The hospitality industry is characterized by a higher turnover rate than other sectors of the economy
  • Traditionally, HR in organizations has utilized low-tech methods in recruitment.
  • Internet recruiting benefits both the organization and the job seeker's perspectives (Pearce and Tuten, 2001; Singh and Finn, 2003). The benefits to the recruiters include: Cost savings, as it is significantly cheaper to advertise on the internet than in a newspaper. Compared to the use of professional search firms (also known as headhunters) the amounts saved are even higher. Recruiters generally receive more applications, which results in a greater pool of candidates from which to choose. Recruiters may receive applications faster, often even on the same day a position is announced. Improved ability to target a specific audience, thereby decreasing future turnover. Time saving, as more unqualified or unfit applicants can be eliminated, through online contact, in the initial phases of the recruitment process.
  • On the other hand, internet recruitment is not without limitations.
  • Once the recruitment process has ensured a large pool of applicants to choose from, the next phase is to select the most suitable candidates.
  • Traditionally, these selection methods involve the visit of the candidate to the organization or, to a lesser degree, to an assessment center, for interviewing, pen-and-paper testing, or situational testing, including group dynamics.
  • The use of advanced technology allows the selection process to complete the widespread online recruitment methods.
  • Nevertheless, the main impact of technology in selection procedures is in relation to employee interviewing and testing.
  • Anderson (2003) broadly described the prominent technology-based selection procedures, along with an assessment of their acceptance and effectiveness.
  • Adequate training is essential in providing quality services, yet traditionally hospitality organizations have not invested adequate resources in training their employees (Conrade et al., 1994). Most of the knowledge and skills of hospitality employees is transferred through on-the-job training,
  • However, as noted by Collins (2004), delivery of organized and structured training programs in the hospitality industry is a constant challenge, mainly because of the size and geographical dispersion of the workforce, as well as the extensive resources – financial, work, and time – needed to establish in-house training programs.
  • Although technology-based training methods have been available for a long time, the hospitality industry has usually lagged behind other sectors in adopting them.
  • Web-based training (WBT) can deliver courses nationwide or worldwide at all time zones to any connected computer, and is easy to update and monitor.
  • Effective performance evaluation plays a critical role in the successful implementation of organizational strategy and in gaining a competitive advantage. Therefore, in addition to important HR decisions that greatly rely on performance evaluation, such as promotions, outplacements, dismissals, many organizations link performance to compensations and rewards. As noted by Bowley and Link (2005), a performance-based compensation plan, often known as “pay-per-performance,” should reflect the organization's goals.
  • the traditional methods, based on a disconnected blend of discrete applications, spreadsheet programs and paper-based systems, to communicate goals, track employee performance and manage compensation, are insufficient in the contemporary challenges of linking performance evaluation to organizational strategy (Bowley and Link, 2005). Yet, although sophisticated HRIS were developed to meet these contemporary challenges, Ensher et al. (2002) found little effect of HRIS on the process of performance management among HR executives, who still rely on paper-and-pencil administration and hard copy documentation of employee evaluation.
  • Nevertheless, CPM has drawbacks that are highly relevant to a service industry such as the hospitality industry (Miller, 2003). The main concern that CPM raises is that reliance only on quantitative criteria is likely to lead to the neglect of more qualitative aspects of performance.
  • Consequently, an effective CPM must be followed by the establishment of an employee development plan, designed in collaboration with his/her supervisor. The second application of technology in appraisal management is online evaluation and appraisal software (Miller, 2003). In contrast to the aforementioned CPM, in these cases technology facilitates delivering performance feedback, rather than generating the actual evaluation outcome.
  • 360° feedback,
  • In addition, evaluation software packages can be used as stand-alone applications or as an integral part of the organization's HRIS, which offers computerized standard evaluation forms. The use of user-friendly software in evaluating employees allows managers to focus more on the contents of the evaluation, rather than on the forms.
  • Therefore, the use of computer software programs allows better coping with these challenges, while saving time and money.
  • While the organization enjoys the reduced need for complex bureaucracy, the employees enjoy better control and enhanced anonymity, as there is no need for dealing directly with HR staff on personal financial matters.
  • The use of HRIS has significant impact on the current affairs between the management and the employees, as well as the characteristics and the environment of the contemporary workplace. From the administrative perspective, through the HRIS the managers and the employees have access to relevant information on employee work rules, policies, and regulations on issues like privacy, illegal discrimination, and work diversity. In addition, the HRIS can assist discharged or displaced employees in finding alternative employment, by providing links to career counselors, training programs, and information, all of which are required for a successful and effective job search
  • technology has changed the nature of the workplace and employer-employee relations more fundamentally than just providing more accessible information.
  • Traditional e-commerce technology provides product/service, promotion, placement, and pricing strategic initiatives to external constituents through the use of extranet platforms merged with intranets (for instance, customer relationship management). HRIS technology provides the same initiatives through the use of intranets merged with extranet platforms (for example, recruitment). Thus, HRIS technology may be considered to represent internal e-commerce systems, which are crucial to the alignment of HR functions within strategic initiatives aimed at sustainable competitive advantages.
  • The evolution of HRIS platforms provides a range of tools for use by enhancing employee-employer relationships. The full service range of HRIS functions brings human capital closer to the strategic direction of the organization.
  • However, the technology is merely a tool that may enhance strategic alignment.
  • There is also evidence from the literature that a disengagement of the HR function from strategic initiatives exist in many hospitality enterprises.
  • It is common knowledge that the hospitality industry is labor intensive with many points of intimate service interactions of long duration. HR will produce sustainable competitive advantages for those firms that include the HR function in a united strategic direction.
  • The literature identifies the advantages of aligned human capital as a means to accomplishing sustainable competitive advantage for enterprises.
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    This article is a research paper did by Amir and Beer-Sheva. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the impact of technology on the human resources function in organizations, in general, and in hospitality firms, in particular. At the beginning, it introduced the role of human resources department in organizations for decades. And the trend or changes in contemporary human resources. Then it came out that we cannot skipped the effect of technology on the HR function, especially in tourism and hospitality industry. So, next it gave the definitions of HRIS by introducing technology. And list some advantages and challenges of using HRIS. In the end, it listed how technology put infusion across HR function, including recruitment, selection, training, performance evaluation and compensation, payroll, benefits and pension administration, labor relations and outplacement.
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Disadvantages of GDS - Hotel Property Management System Software - 0 views

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    There is always a negative side to a positive. As GDS has a lot advantages for hotels, there are a lot of negatives to consider as well. It is certain that GDS is an asset in the hospitality industry but a hotel for example might choose to seek bookings through other means because they are trying to cut costs. Some of the many reasons why hotels don't choose to use GDS are money, priorities, industry stagnation, declining audience and controversy. I will touch upon money, priorities and controversy which I found are the most important. For money, the price of GDS alone may be a drawback for some properties; this money could be invested in other areas of the property instead of GDS. For priorities, retaining guest in a hotel should more important than bringing new guests through GDS. For Controversies, GDS is known to monopolize the business travel market because some companies claim that their fees are unreasonable. To summarize this, there is not just one way to do things nowadays. As GDS could be advantageous for one property, it may not be for another one. GDS is not the only answer when it comes to managing bookings and there are a lot of plenty options. Therefore a manager should know what choice to make by finding a balance through the positives and negatives of GDS.
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HSMAI Article - E-Commerce Now And In The Future - 0 views

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    Electronic commerce is a booming business during these years. For example, the United States attributed $300 billion in transactions in 2002. There are two types of E-commerce through Internet, one is Intranet and the other is Extranet. Also, according to the former data, E-commerce is becoming more and more importance. Among e-commerce transactions, individual transactions donate a lot. There are lots of benefits about the E-commerce. Through selling on the Internet, they often have lower transactions costs. Also, E-commerce is faster and more convenient so that shoppers are able to take a lot of time to buy. Although there are lots of benefits, there are still drawbacks like searching better prices. Organizations usually go through four phases, including Web Presence, Web Service, Web Transactions and Integrated Web. The purpose of the first one is marketing enhancing. The second one is setting for responding to product and services inquires. The third one make company get their Web Sites ready for transactions. The last one creates the value chain among the customers. In the future, there will be greater integration of Web Sites with backend customer databases and other business information systems. The organizations are developing micromarketing decisions at individual level. At the end, the article also listed a lot of questions about the issues about the e-commerce in the future.
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    Did you know that by the year 2016 e-Commerce buying and selling online would have made over 8.6 billion dollars! This article discusses the e-commerce currently and its future trends in the hospitality arena, which is one of the fastest growing industries to date.
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Event Planning - Technology Solutions - 1 views

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    The article highlighted the five top technologies that are quite effective and beneficial for events: 1. Smart phones: Smart phones have the ability to look up suppliers when on the move, for example the ability to respond to emails as well as monitor and respond to the social media. Another benefit is the ability for to do list and scheduled to be created. This is very critical in the time management of events. 2. Saas Cloud Application (software as a service): The advantage is to have access form any web enabled device. This will reduce printing cost and provide the ability to customize reports. Meeting Planners can use Saas to link event management system with customer relationship systems eg. Saleforce. This allows efficient data transfer to both speakers and attendees. 3. Virtual Events: Webiners like gotomeeting.com give participants the ability to attend meetings from multiple locations. This can be save time and money. The only drawback in the personal interaction however, for quick group meetings and presentations this can be quite convenient. 4. Social Media and Viral Marketing: One out of every three persons spend three or more hours on-line per day. The sharing of events though social media sites is highly beneficial for both planners and attendees. Smart planners get participants to market to people within their network. 5. Ipads and Tablets: No more big boxes of binders to ship home form a conference. This means huge saving for bit planners and attendees. Access for information can be controlled at registration point. Information is easily transferred to ones device
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    With more and more people adopting smartphones, ipads and tablets, event planners should look into purchasing a mobile event app for their attendees to use at their event. This not only reduces paper waste, it also reduces the high costs involved in printing event guides and brochures for the event. It is essentially a virtual event guide that's available in the palm of the attendee's hands.EventMobi actually offers an interactive mobile event app for conferences and tradeshows. They allow event planners to fully customize and manage their content at an affordable price
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    With this technology event planners can work more efficiently and provide great options for their clients. In addtion event palnners can cut expenses while taking advantage of technology and improve their communication within their suppliers and clients.
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    I agree every event planner I met at SOBEWFF was on their Ipad 24/7- you sort of feel out of the loop without one. However while observing the benefits of new technology, increased response rates and efficiency, there were still issues that required a phone call rather than an e-mail. In the planning stage this technology is all very helpful but the day of personal interaction is required. Also as far as CRM event planners are still very hands on in terms of making their presence known through face-to-face interactions. The industry still relies heavily on personal relationships.
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    This article talks about the 5 most important tools that an event planner needs to use. 1.Smart phones- this one is an easy one. We all know how important our smart phones are to us. Smart phones allow us to have so many different applications at our fingertips. 2.SaaS cloud applications-"software as a service" these applications have opened up a new way to view things in the event planning industry. These applications allow the planners to use their ipads and tablets to allow them to connect with other applications like salesforce, to deal with customers in an easy manner. 3.Virtual events-these events like "webinars and live feed "have become popular it gives viewers the sense of being at the event. Webinars are also very popular because it allows planners to get more people to "be" at the event for a lower cost. 4.Social Media- because sites like Facebook and Twitter have become so popular it makes sense that this would be important to events because people are often commenting of places they have been to. 5.iPads and Tablets-because they add a sense of simplicity and organization to the madness that is party planning
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Portable PMS solutions improve hotel operations | Hotel & Motel Management | Find Articles - 1 views

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    "Portable PMS solutions improve hotel operations" mentions both the benefits and drawbacks of using PMS. It is clear that there are many advantages considered, but also some real obstacles has been shown, which is not only the price. The smart system is the right solution for not having problems with the use. For instance, The Virtual Front Desk would improve the quality of service and enable to control from anywhere. Further, hotels no longer with reservations issues such as overbooking . There are some new software that has been widely applied in hospitality industry. Finally, while the cost of wireless is going down, the benefits of this technologies are going up
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Why You Need a POS System in a Restaurant - 0 views

  • If you are planning a very small operation, such as bagel or sandwich shop, you may not need a POS system at the opening time, especially if you aren’t going to take credit cards
  • ou will need to replace parts, update software and eventually need to replace it entirely with a new model. New POS systems come with limited warranties and tech support, but just like every other piece of equipment, the problems always seem to start after the warranty has run out.
  • If it happens to crash and you don’t have a backup, then you risk losing all your data, not just sales, but profit and loss statements and payroll statements.
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  • POS system acts as a time clock, it can also help prepare payroll. This can save you a lot of money in your bookkeeping department. Along with the daily operations of running a restaurant, a POS system can organize profit and loss statement and sales tax.
  • Another benefit of a restaurant POS program is that it can track everything from food usage to the most popular menu items.
  • One benefit of a POS system is that it simplifies communications between the kitchen and the wait staff.
  • This makes swiping credit cards more secure for both the customer and the business. Servers are accountable for all their sales, and it is impossible to alter checks in the computer unless you have the password. This helps cut down on employee theft.
  • This computerized system allows business owners to track sales, cash flow, food inventory and can help simplify your bookkeeping enormously.
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    This article discusses the importance of having a Point of Sale, or POS, system in your restaurant and its many roles in the operations of the business. POS systems track all sales transaction up to the minute. It also accounts for all employees' operations. Of course, there are pros and cons to every system. One pro of a POS is the direct connection to the kitchen staff. Once the server places the order, a ticket is printed in the kitchen thus helping to eliminate miscommunication and create efficiencies between servers and kitchen staff. Another positive stated was a POS system helps cut back on employee theft since the system logs employee actions and makes it difficult to alter items in the system. Additionally, POS systems can help substantially with the bookkeeping operations. POSs can track and collect data regarding popular and unpopular food and menu items. The system also can help with accounting and show payroll as well as profit and loss statements. One of the drawbacks of a POS is the susceptibility to electronic issues, such as hardware failure or system crashes. If there is a catastrophic crash to the system, the restaurant could lose all of its sales data as well as payroll statements and other important documents. Therefore, having a backup is important, but expensive. Additionally, while the POS system typically comes with a warranty, it would be smart to have an IT person employed who can set up the POSs and update the device or software and address any problems the POS network may encounter. Again, this adds cost. In the end, Point of Sale systems are an overwhelmingly positive tool for the restaurant industry. However, restauranteurs need to be aware of the issues and plan accordingly to run a smooth operation.
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    This article talks about POS. POS-point of sales is a hardware that used in the hospitality industry, mostly used in the restaurant. It's a tool you can accept the payment of customers and count the transaction. Modern POS system provides a platform to help customers to enhance the experience. It's also an easy communication with kitchen and wait staff. It can maximize the revenue. But some issues are POS systems come with limited warranties and tech support. I think companies need to ask for help with the IT advisor In the hospitality industry, tough competition and thin margins, we need to get more value from POS.
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The Pros and Cons of IoT in the Hotel Industry | - 1 views

  • The Internet of Things is the network of physical objects embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and network connectivity enabling these objects to collect and exchange data.
  • “Third Wave of Innovation” following the Industrial Revolution and Internet Revolution.
  • The hotel industry has already started implementing IoT strategies into their properties to increase guest satisfaction, decrease unnecessary costs and labor, and increase productivity.
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  • top five trends
  • IoT Drawbacks in Hospitality
  • cyber-attacks and security breaches
  • “a smart energy management system knows when a guest room is unoccupied and can automatically adjust the temperature to reduce energy consumption by as much as 20-45 percent,”
    • herzencortes
       
      Energy consumption is only one aspect where IoT can help, but more so, it will help in maintenance, sales, and overall guest experience in the hospitality industry
  • The Internet of Things is the network of physical objects embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and network connectivity enabling these objects to collect and exchange data.
    • herzencortes
       
      The internet of things is a fascinating concept, in the future it will help companies collect more data than ever and then in turn this data will be use to cater to guests and market to a much more specific market
  • Guest-room Automation
    • herzencortes
       
      Guest room automation, in my opinion is the next big thing. Today we see air conditioners that can turn off when guests leave rooms, lights that dim with natural lights, and televisions that turn on and off depending on guests being or not present
  • Predictive Maintenance – Predictive maintenance takes preventive maintenance one-step further by using sensor data to recognize hazardous trends and alert the appropriate maintenance engineer before the issue escalates.
    • herzencortes
       
      Predictive maintenance is imperative to keeping a property in shape. By including IoT labor costs and maintenance costs can be brought down
  • Mobile Engagement –
    • herzencortes
       
      Social media is king, andhaving data that allows for properties and other companies to target their posts can make the difference
  • Hyper-Personalization
    • herzencortes
       
      Particularly with high end properties, personalization is an important part of building a recurring client base and differentiation.
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    More and more, hotels are using IoT (the Internet of Things) strategies. Just like we can use our phones to lock/unlock our house's front door, hotels can use different devices in their properties to boost a guest's satisfaction. Currently, some of the top IoT trends are: Guest-room automation, where a guest's room can change the temperature, switch on/off the lights, and do a few more personalizations around the room depending on whether or not a guest is currently in there; Predictive maintenance, where sensor data is used to prevent issues by recognizing dangerous trends and notifying maintenance before it gets worse; Mobile engagement, where guests can use their phones as room keys among other things; and Hyper-personalization, where rooms could remember a guest's room preferences (temp, lighting, tv channels, etc.) and then set up the room the same way the next time they stayed. However, the fact that all of this is internet-enabled means that there is also a significant risk of information being hacked into and stolen.
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The Disadvantages of Computerized Accounting Systems | Bizfluent - 0 views

  • But it’s easy to become excessively reliant on computerized accounting and to overlook the potential pitfalls of allowing a machine and a software program to store all your data and calculate essential numerical relationships.
  • Although computerized accounting systems use technology to calculate sums and store information, this data must be entered by humans, and these humans must be trained
  • Training staff on software programs can be expensive, and knowledge needs to be updated regularly because computerized accounting systems change, sometimes every year.
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  • Virtually every aspect of a computerized accounting system is costly.
  • You may also have to shell out funds for repairs, or hire professionals for training, custom software or to untangle especially complex mishaps.
  • Computerized accounting systems are vulnerable to cyber security issues.
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    As this week we are talking about electronic accounting systems, I found this article on the disadvantages of computerized accounting systems to be rather interesting. As mentioned in the article, many companies tend to become too reliant on computerized systems, which leads to them forgetting about the negative outcomes that may arise from using such systems. These disadvantages include high cost, from training staff to repairing/replacing the electronic systems. In addition, like any cloud-based system, a computerized accounting system can also make a company vulnerable to cyber security issues, such as hacking. Overall, while very advantageous, computerized accounting systems still have certain risks companies must address before deciding whether, or not to use them. 
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    I believe you found a very interesting article on electronic accounting systems. Even though the tendency is all about the positive aspects on electronic accounting systems, I enjoyed reading the perspective on this article which focuses on its drawbacks. Companies need to evaluate whether this investment is functional for them and weight the pros versus the cons. Additionally, the information on an electronic accounting system is sensitive, and it can make the company vulnerable to hacking and data breaches. These are very important points for managers to take into consideration while finding the right accounting system for them.
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Why you need a POS system - 0 views

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    This article discusses why a POS system is good for a restaurant and what are the benefits and drawbacks of a restaurant having a POS system as well.
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Carnival Corp.: Wearable technology to transform cruise experience: Travel Weekly - 1 views

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    Carnival has introduced a bluetooth band similar to what Disney offers. Ocean Medallion has the ability to track guest preferences so that Carnival Corp can better serve its guests. It can do everything from ordering your drink to paying your tab. Ocean Medallion will mostly affect guests shopping, gambling, and shore excursion experiences. Its big debut is set for November 12, 2017 in Fort Lauderdale aboard the Princess Cruises.
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    This is a great idea to incorporate into a cruise ships to enhance the experience for it's guest. The drawback to this however is that it could be dangerous for the customers financially as they are not seeing the money being taken from their account. It is not Carnivals issue necessarily, but one that needs to be given as a precaution before a guest receives the band.
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Handheld Wireless Point of Sale Systems in the Restaurant Industry PLEASE SCR... - 1 views

  • As surprising as it may seem, handheld ordering systemshave been around for over 20 years.
  • Handheld wireless POSsystems are a portable version of a POS system which is defined as thetime and place in which a transaction is made.
  • Customers are the reasons restaurants are in business, andthe time saved by using a handheld device (versus waiting in line toplace an order on a traditional POS system that averages over four min-utes per order)canbeusedtobetterservetheguests.
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  • thoseminutes equate togreatertable turnover andmoreprofits.It is these benefits which lead to cost savings and return on investmentfor the purchase of a handheld POS system.
  • Thereisahugemarketofover878,000restaurantsintheUnitedStatesalonebringinginaforecasted$440.1billionfor2004
  • Assurprisingasitmayseemhandheldorderingsystemshavebeenaroundfor over 20 years. The first handheld system that came on the market usednumeric keypads to enter the PLU codes from items and infrared transmit-ter/receivers to relay the information between the handhelds and the POSsystem.
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    Many restaurants are choosing to go to hand-held POS systems for the many advantages they provide. Perhaps the number one reason to chose a hand-held POS system is time saved. A restaurant can save up to four minutes by placing the order via a hand-held POS system. This leads to more selling opportunities, and greater time with the guest. Information on 86'd items is immediately available, and the system can suggest possible "upsell" options. Order accuracy is increased, because the order is placed right at the table as it is given. Drawbacks include the durability of the unit, considerable start up costs, and complexity of the unit. Many of the durability issues have been addressed, but the units are still pricey. Costs have come down as the technology becomes more widespread. The complexity of the unit still remains an issue, as servers tend to focus more on the unit and placing the order, rather than engaging the guest.
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    I have seen these work very well at Chick-fil-a recently. They utilize these systems during high traffic times by having two associates out in the drive through line taking orders along with the intercom. By doing this, they are able to take three orders at a time and the line is very minimal. If used correctly, this is a great system to have.
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5 benefits of modern accounting system for your hotel business - WhaTech - 2 views

  • As a hotelier, you need to adopt new technologies to effectively streamline this aspect of your business.
    • lvela051
       
      Technology is becoming the new normal, which hoteliers have to adapt to.
    • lvela051
       
      It is useful within a hotel but especially in larger establishments that generate a lot of business.
  • Budgets Compare profits (between current and past periods) Prepare financial statements, balance sheets Cash flow statements Payroll management Business planning and much more
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    • lvela051
       
      Besides creating statements, their responsibilities include:
  • Information such as how your room is priced compared to competitors, or the current month’s profit as compared to the previous month gives deep insights.
    • lvela051
       
      How it benefits the hotel?
    • lvela051
       
      The article addresses 5 great benefits that comes with modern accounting but does not take into consideration the drawbacks of using technology to calculate data.
  • 1. Automation and Accuracy: A hotel accounting system makes it easy for you to generate invoices, account statements, produce payslips, and much more.
  • 2. Access from anywhere:
    • lvela051
       
      This can be an issue, because it can compromise the security of the information.
  • 3. Information in real-time:
  •  4. Ease of use:
  •  5. Speed and efficiency:
    • lvela051
       
      Great way to be time efficient and also provide accurate information and a faster pace. Doesn't require the need to check manual spreadsheets all information is stored within a system.
  • Tech-savvy hoteliers have adopted cloud-based property management systems (PMS) to perform a host of tasks including accounting.
    • lvela051
       
      The merge between PMS system and accounting (financial) system.
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    Accounting within a hotel is very important because it helps to generate reports to determine the cash flow within a hotel. The article that I choose summarizes the changes that have occured that have affected the way accounting is done within a hotel. It touches briefly of how old school vs new school accounting is done. The way accounting was done a few years back was by being done manually with spreadsheets and needed more time to create invoices. As far as the new way accounting is done, there are accounting softwares that allow us to track real time numbers within seconds to determine budgets, statements and other reports. The idea of using the software is to create a more accurate and faster routine to have data represented correctly. It also mentions the integration of PMS and the hotel accounting management software to work together to make it easier for hotels to use. After reading the article, the idea of having these softwares put into place to make it "easier", also comes with the fear of having this technology backfire. With so many benefits being mentioned throughout the article, we would also have to analyze the negatives being hacking, malfunctions and other issues within having technology. Within a hotel, accountants have a lot of individual and group accounts that requires personal information and also deadlines. The use of accounting systems would help to facilitate the amount of data that is being processed and also ensure that its accurate to prevent any mistakes.
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