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aquin206

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.
djohn304

How Proximity Marketing Can Aid Businesses - Forbytes - 0 views

  • The development of technology provides new opportunities for businesses to grow.
  • Our smartphones have changed how we shop, work, socialize, and live. It’s no wonder that so many businesses are taking on the challenge of proximity marketing.
  • The aim of proximity marketing is to deliver marketing campaigns to consumers in close proximity to retailers, restaurants, or other locations of interest to target messages.
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  • The idea of proximity marketing is that a specific message can only be communicated to the right person by its proximity.
  • Enhanced customer experience: Using a proximity marketing strategy enables your company to personalize the customer experience in a way that varies your offerings based on the customer’s past, present, or future location and behavior. App utilization: Using proximity ads to provide valuable info and offers can improve user interaction with a business’s app, which can be a place for users to read regular updates and withdraw discounts, etc. Cost-effectiveness: Mobile proximity marketing is a cost-efficient way to target ads to the desired audience. Customer relationship boost: Proximity ads help businesses better understand the needs of their customers. This allows them to meet these needs to enhance relationships and interactions.
    • joshli2022
       
      Benefits of proximity marketing.
  • Businesses of all sizes use proximity marketing to engage with potential customers,
  • The aim of proximity marketing is to deliver marketing campaigns to consumers in close proximity to retailers, restaurants, or other locations of interest to the target audience.
  • method of location-based marketing via a company’s use of their customers’ location is a foundation for a proximity marketing strategy.
  • as long as they’re physically near to the business. It makes ads more practical and efficient, as well as more personal.
  • Near field communication (NFC) proximity marketing is a marketing tactic in which retailers put a chip on the product that works as a transmitter and connect to in-store visitors’ mobiles to send them various info about certain products.
  • designed to identify the customer profile and send the message directly to the person.
  • n the form of coupons or discount cards, advertisement banners in the store, or a personalized advertisement on a store companion website.
  • this is done by utilizing mobile location tech technologies, such as GPS. But technologies such as Bluetooth and WiFi also serve this type of marketing.
  • A hyper-local sales campaign is one in which a local retailer maximizes their geographic location to house a specific sales event and makes use of the surrounding local culture to generate interest.
  • WiFi proximity marketing is integrated with in-store marketing to provide guests with personalized, customer-activated content based on their proximity.
  • Using proximity marketing technology, the ad campaigns reach a more personal level with their audience, adding a more engaging and personalized touch.
  • One such method is radio-frequency identification (RFID) proximity marketing. It allows companies to embed a unique identifier on their product, insert it into the RFID proximity marketing imaging system, and then automatically customize their targeting.
  • granting you a valuable asset: consumer data. When a customer wants to log in to your WiFi network, ask them to provide their email first so you can reach out to them later and send personalized offers.
  • meaningful data points like demographic, location/geography, platform, and time.
  • GPS-based proximity marketing. Also called geo-targeting and geo-marketing, this tactic lets companies identify and engage customers based on their location. It is mainly used in retail, services, and real estate.
  • Those locations – your local grocery store, fitness club, a particular bar- can leverage that information to send you exclusive offers and promotions.
  • Beacons, easily installed in every store and retail space, use an electrical signal to identify customer location and transmit data to them through Bluetooth.
  • calculate daily traffic patterns and broadcast promotional messages to individuals nearby, making product recommendations or simply notifying them of discounts and beneficial deals.
  • Modern business owners rely on digital marketing channels for both growth and retention.
  • Beacons can create interactive experiences and offer valuable information (such as displaying discounts) to smartphone users as they walk near to encourage them to stay or shop longer or make a purchase.
  • However, this technology is still considered to be one of the most expensive ones for marketing purposes.
  • There are less expensive proximity marketing solutions for budget ad campaigns. For instance, QR (Quick Response) Codes are a powerful tool that allows companies to create digital proximity marketing opportunities by simply creating one and hanging it on the wall in the store.
  • mobile browser detection. When visitors arrive at your website, many factors are taken into account, including their IP address, browser, and device. Every time a visitor to your website activates their mobile phone or pulls up your page on their laptop browser, you have a chance to reach out and, potentially, monetize them.
  • Enhanced customer experience: The use of a proximity marketing strategy enables your company to personalize the customer experience in a way that varies your offerings based on the customer’s past, present, or future location and behavior. App utilization: The use of proximity ads to provide valuable info and offers can improve user interaction with a business’s app, which can be a place for users to read regular updates, withdraw discounts, etc. Cost-effectiveness: Mobile proximity marketing is a cost-efficient way to target ads to the desired audience. Customer relationship boost: Proximity ads help businesses better understand the needs of their customers. This allows them to meet these needs to enhance relationships and interactions.
  • hotel visitors can receive information about the hotel and the various offers it has. Also, as guests are looking for the best cafes or restaurants for a good price, hotels can partner with local bars and restaurants and inform the guests of the deals they could get.
  • Businesses are uncovering the benefits of marketing to clients in their proximity.
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    This article is about the concept of proximity marketing that supports sales and marketing development in business operations. First, the idea of this marketing strategy is to reach out to the right consumers based on mobile techs and GPS techs. Second, the four types of proximity marketing are by components, application, geography, and key players in general. Third, the benefits of proximity marketing are enhanced experiences for the guests. Applicational utilization. Cost-effectiveness on the mobile marketing, then the guest relationship improvement will be one of them to benefiting the company's business growth.
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    In these days of technology advancement, proximity marketing is one of the best ways for marketing. The only disadvantage is potentially using someone's information without permission. As long as permission is granted, it would be fine.
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    Proximity marketing is a mode of location based marketing that uses the customers location to their advantage when distributing advertisements for their business. There are several different types of proximity marketing solutions that can and are currently being used by the most popular brands right now. There is wifi proximity marketing, radio frequency identification proximity marketing (RFID), near field communication proximity marketing (NFC), GPS based, beacon based, and QR codes. Using these methods of marketing hold benefits including enhanced customer experience, app utilization, cost effectiveness, and customer relation boost. There is an option for everyone in terms of cost and many industries are using them more and more, inclusive of the hospitality/tourism industry. In my opinion, the previous ways of advertising are becoming obsolete and the market for competition is growing and growing and growing. We all have likely encountered one or more forms of this type of marketing, and we likely will continue to in the future.
marylauren1717

Austrian Hotel First to Feature Rooms with Minimalist Locks | News | Hospitality Magazi... - 0 views

  • VingCard Elsafe, the global leader in hospitality security and part of the ASSA ABLOY Group, has installed the world’s first invisible door lock at the 5-star Hotel Bristol in Vienna. Essence by VingCard is a revolutionary concept in hospitality security, taking minimalist design to the extreme by eliminating all lock hardware on the door. Essence encases all electronic components inside the door itself to make the access devices practically invisible to hotel guests.
  • VingCard Elsafe’s suite of RFID locking systems feature contactless access control via Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) encoded communication and secure anti-cloning software. Additionally, VingCard Elsafe RFID solutions are designed to be easily adapted to Near Field Communication (NFC) technology that is expected to be in widespread use globally within a few years and which will enable travelers to use mobile devices as room keys. Both communication protocols are compatible with Essence by VingCard locks.
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    VingCard Elsafe provides electronic locks, in-room safes, and advanced energy management systems for hotels. At the Hotel Bristol in Vienna, the first invisible door lock has been installed, taking minimalist design to new heights. Without compromising the security of hotel guests, VingCard Elsfae is able to the hide the lock components from the user, allowing for a more sleek door.  WIth the use of RFID and secure anti-cloning software, this solution is designed to be adapted to Near Field Communication technology which will allow guests to use their mobile devices as room keys. Besides aesthetic advantages, Essence by VingCard Elsafe minimizes integrated installation and maintenance. 
Paulette Grant

Disney Taps Contactless and NFC Technology as it Seeks to Connect Customers to Its Fant... - 0 views

  • Perhaps most valuable for Disney is the personal information it hopes to collect from use of the wristbands and from the Web site and app, on an opt-in basis. Personal information could be encoded on the chip of the MagicBands, allowing, for example, Disney employees to greet young visitors by name, according to published reports. The costumed employees might have a hidden contactless reader, though the bands reportedly will store “no personal identifiable information,” Disney reportedly said.
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    The article highlights the dramatic change that Disney will effect to increase customer service at the theme park using the Near- Field Communication technology (NFC). This technology which is presently been use by hospitality firms and other industries will allow Disney to eliminate the need for room keys, credit cards, and paper tickets. Customers will be given a wrist band which will be tied to the Disney websites and all accounts numbers and IDs created on the website will be embedded in a chip that is also embedded in that wrist band. All you will need to do is just give it a tap and boom! You are given access to rides, movies, restaurants, kiosks and other attractions within the park. According to the report this saves customers and Disney tremendous amount of time but the real deal behind this is to gather more personal data about customers, and track all the activities you engaged in plus the things you bought. Personal information could be encoded in the wrist band so that an employee or even mickey mouse could greet you by name. All this technology sounds very good but what if I lost my wrist band and it gets in the hands of someone else. The article states that the wrist band can be remotely deactivated if lost or stolen. You and I know that when you having fun at Disney no one will be looking at their wrist every five minutes to see if a wrist band is still in place. If someone found my lost wristband and I notice two or three hours later who will be responsible for all these charges racked up by someone else? I really like this technology because I hate having to wait in long lines; anything that would make my life easier I will pay for it. Having said that I do believe that there are facets of this amazing technology that still needs to be tweaked.
Sherine Mattison

How Smart Devices will Change Hospitality Technology | By Les Spielman - 0 views

  • In the hospitality industry, "Near Field Communications" (NFC) now has an even more secure network that assists the utilization of total hotel security, individual room monitoring for the HVAC system, more bedside controls for lights, electronic drapes, monitoring who is at the door, fire and smoke security, excessive electrical usage, all centrally monitored by management and the individual guest, from network controlled smart devices that we all carry. Imagine a typical hotel (which already exists today). Your smart device is already registered with the hotel or hotel chain. You walk into the front door of the hotel and there are sensors by the entrance/exit. You press the hotel's "app" that is on your mobile device, you have now checked into the hotel, without going to the front desk. The hotel's system sends your smart device an arrival confirmation along your new room number. When you reach your room, the app opens the door using NFC. Look ma, no keys needed. The door security device registers your arrival time along with the device's ID info. In the meantime, the HVAC system now sets the temperature of your assigned room to the temperature from your profile. Housekeeping and the concierge are notified.
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    With security now becoming an issue in the hotel industry, especially western hotels that operate in different parts of the world, "NFC (Near Field Communications) now has an even more secure network that assists the utilization of total hotel security." This will be monitored by the guest and management. The smart device has to be registered with the hotel and when the guest walks in and presses the hotel the guest is checked in. An arrival confimation is then sent to the device along with the room number, this app is then used to open the door. The arrival time is registered and the utilities in the room are set based on the guest's profile. "Housekeeping and the concierge are notified."
Tamara Lang

Point of Sale Technology: New Developments - 0 views

  • Hotel
  • A hotels Point of Sale (POS) system is vital to the running of the business and crucial to how a hotelier monitors things like sales, bookings and staff performance. Recent advances in technology have helped to revolutionise the hospitality sector, decreasing service times and increasing the efficiency of sales when completing transactions.
  • The growing trend of a new technology called Near Field Communications (NFC) is hoped to eliminate the necessity for customers to carry money or credit/debit cards to pay their bills. This NFC technology allows consumers to use mobile devices to process all their transactions, for instance by swiping their smartphone across a special kiosk at the counter, with all the information sent to a central processing system for payment.
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    This article was very enlightening on the recent advances of POS technology in the hospitality industry and the new developments that keep evolving. The article presents areas were recent advances have helped to improve the "effectiveness of a business and relationship with their customers". As stated in the article with the use of "cloud-based systems, the latest i-trends and the growth of Near Field Communications", the hospitality industry POS technology will move very far. Three key areas were discussed; "Point of Sale on the move" which referred to using a browser on any mobile device to obtain necessary information while you are on the move or away from the business. The second area was using a POS system on a tablet or smartphone that would be able to provide more useful information than tradition POS systems in a lightweight manner with more flexibility. I can attest to the real need for this advancement because working in an establishment that has the traditional POS systems has proven when there is a problem trouble shooting can be very difficult. A process as simple as getting your technical support team to make changes in your POS system can be a nightmare, when your system does not have updated software. We experienced that issue this week, when technical support attempted to access the system and could not locate the license agreement after hours of searching for a key we found a device that was attached to the printer cable in the back of the CPU. All of the unnecessary time spent on that one event could have been eliminated if some of this new technology was in place. The last area the article referred to is "Marrying POS and NFC". This new development is hoping to eliminate the need for carrying money or credit/debit cards and enable consumers to use mobile devices to process all transactions. I believe this would be very beneficial in the hospitality industry not only from the point credit card fraud but also it eliminate
glope143

How This Conference Used N.F.C. Technology to Drive Traffic Around Its Exhibit Hall - 0 views

  • When the organizers of Intuit’s QuickBooks Connect conference initially decided to use near-field communication (N.F.C.) technology on attendee badges for this year’s event, which was held October 22 to 26 at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center in California, they had several goals in mind.First, they wanted to automate the process of tracking continuing education credits for the attendees; second, they wanted to make it easy for vendors to track leads at their booths; and third, they wanted a way for attendees to gather information from vendors and sessions electronically, rather than in paper form.
    • glope143
       
      This conference held in 2016 is a perfect example of how technology can assist in making an existing (and adequately functioning) event model even better. Each attendee's badge included near-field communication chips that allowed for knowledge on where attendees spent most of their time, granted vendors an easier way to access lead information, and made the conference more green by having promotional information sent electronically. The structure of the meeting didn't change with this technology, attendees still visited vendor booths learning about new products and exchanging contact information, but the entire process become more efficient with this added technology.
  • And then they came up with an additional function: Due to the event’s growth, Intuit had to spread the 112 exhibitors across two halls for the first time this year. N.F.C. created a fun way to ensure the more than 5,000 small business owners, accountants, and developers in attendance would spend time in both halls.
    • glope143
       
      Having been part of a team who organized a bridal exposition this past year, I understand the fear of having attendees only congregate in one area if two halls are involved. This not only reflects negatively on the event team because effort put into hall #2 goes unused, but the vendors located in the under-visited hall may be resentful and place blame on the business organizing for "favoring" those vendors placed in the more trafficked area. Intuit's idea to use NFC technology as an incentive to attract guests to hall #2 was both creative and smart. The business used various prizes and raffles to encourage attendees to move into hall #2 and scan their badges to win a prize.
  • By using the N.F.C. technology in this game-like way, O’Brien said it helped attendees become comfortable with the new technology. “We wanted to teach that the value was beyond the exhibit hall,” she said. “We wanted there to be ‘delight’ reasons to scan, so there was the kiosk or to get pictures.” The N.F.C. was integrated into the event app, which O’Brien said had a 91 percent adoption rate this year, much higher than at the 2015 event.
    • glope143
       
      Both NFC and RFID technology are increasingly popular in the corporate event planning industry as the technology is user-friendly even for those who have never interacted before and provides vast opportunities for the users to collect data. This data is useful for the following meeting in terms of budget, staffing, marketing to attendees, and vendor response.
Marcos Oliveira

Mobile Restaurant POS Technology Helps Payment Flexibility - QSR magazine - 0 views

  • With smartphones getting smarter, smaller, and speedier all the time, concurrent advances in mobile point-of-sale technology are presenting restaurants with the opportunity to make their POS systems mobile.
  • There are now numerous POS platforms that leverage the iPhone and other mobile devices, including Android-powered smartphones and tablet computers like the iPad, so that restaurants can process payments in the field with a credit-card reader
  • Traditional POS has been very regimented and costly, but mobile is very adaptable, not only in terms of payment but in terms of marketing tools from an ever-growing number of third parties.”
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  • While mobile POS is often touted as a boon to full-service restaurants—it can allow customers to pay at the table through a credit-card reader attached to a mounted iPad, for example, and waiters can log orders on a smartphone that zip back to the kitchen at 4G speed—the technology also has service-oriented benefits for quick serves
  • Beyond mobile POS’s value as a portable cash register is its potential as a conduit for invaluable consumer insight. Whereas restaurants are able to glean very little personalized information from credit-card transactions, they can learn a lot when customers use the mobile payment apps or opt in for an array of alerts and updates via their smartphones.
  • The mobile POS … allows us to capture valuable data that gives us a better idea of our customers’ spending and buying habits
  • mobile POS platform called Sage Payment Solutions for processing credit cards
  • Smartphones open up very exciting opportunities when it comes to business-consumer communication
  • As mobile POS technology evolves, an operator will be able to send coupons to opted-in customers’ phones based on their shopping habits or geographic location.
  • the potential of mobile POS far outweighs the peril. The technology is in its infancy, and new developments are on the horizon. These include near-field communication, which allows smartphones to share data with other devices that are in close physical proximity, and EMV cards, which have microchips that allow them to interface with mobile phones.
  • “mobile technology is in the first inning
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    With smartphones evlving and getting smarter, smaller and speedier it is allowing for advances in mobile point-of-sale technology especially in the restaurant industr. There are now numerous POS platforms that support both iPhone as well as android. Tablets and iPads are also supported so that restaurants can process payments in the field with a credit card reader. Traditionally POS have been very costly and structured; now with mobile technology the flexibility is convenient, fast and user friendly. New applications allow restaurants to store customer spending patterns without retaining their personal credit card information. the use of smartphones also opens up very exciting opportunities when it comes to business-consumer communication. Restaurants can send text messages containg discounted coupons to their establishments. The key is to not over do it as customers may become annoyed with too many text messages. This article delat mainly with the restaurant industry but did mention the evolution of technological advances with the use of smart phones. Form personal experience I have used my iphone and ipad to conduct credit card transactions utilzing squareD which provides free of charge a mobile credit card swiper that is connected to the microphone port of either the iphone or Ipad. there is not monthly contract or fee. The only charge is 2.5% per settled credit card transaction and the amount is automatically deducted from the batched amount and within 1-2 business days the funds are deposited directly into ones checking/savings account. This is convenient, fast, and easy. I have been able to secure payment right on the spot instead of either handling cash which is always a ahzard or the risk of accepting checks. the use of smartphones and tbalets have revolutionozed the way business is being conducted making it fast, easy, and convenient to both cutomer and busoness owner alike.
paige rosenberg

The Future of Hotel Security - AOL Travel News - 1 views

  • Technology is opening new doors to hotel safety
  • Yet more card-free security systems are on the way
  • eventually new security measures will become such a part of our everyday lives that they will become the norm.
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  • Systems that track the other qualities that make each human unique are in development as well.
  • here are some systems being explored that can allegedly sniff someone, and also systems that can recognize the pattern of blood veins on a human being which are apparently unique to the individual,
  • new thing is contact-less Smartcards and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) cards that need just be waved to allow room access.
  • Kimpton's 190-room Nine Zero Hotel in Boston was the first hotel to install a biometric iris scanner back in 2004
  • we navigate hotels is set to change in the blink of an eye. Or the swipe of a cellphone. Or the print of a finger. With futuristic systems like scent and iris scanners and digital facial-recognition, hotel security is being taken to the next level. #plain_module { width: 590px; height:170px; border: none; float:left; margin:0px; font-size:12px;} #plain_module img {border:none; width: 13px; height:14; border: 0px; margin:0px; } #plain_module .mini_main { margin: 0px; padding:0px; width:585px; height:220px; repeat scroll 0 0} #plain_module .mini_item_header {padding:10px 0px; margin: 0px 0px; font-size:16px; color: #555555; border-bottom:1px dotted #CCCCCC;} #plain_module .mini_item {padding:5px 0px; margin: 0px 0px;} #plain_module a { color: #49A3CA; text-decoration:none; } #plain_module a:hover { color: #F98419; text-decoration:underline;} span.gray {color:#949494;} .mini_main li{list-style-type: none;background-image: url(http://www.aolcdn.com/travel/bullet);background-repeat: no-repeat;background-position: 0 1px;padding-left: 10px;}
  • Those plastic key cards that once seemed so innovative will soon go the way of the actual key
  • "In addition to Radio Frequency Identification, there are also systems that use a smartphone, such as an iPhone,"
  • When a guest checks into a hotel and provides their phone number, they get an encrypted sound code via text message
  • Many industry watchers are keeping an eye on Houston's largest hotel, the vast 1,200-room Hilton Americas–Houston. The hotel has a facial recognition system that can identify and track guests, employees, and even suitcases
  • 1,200 rooms worth of luggage in transit, the system makes it a lot easier to find lost or misdirected bags.
  • Returning guests will be recognized and greeted by nam
  • "Hospitality all over the world has become more aware of past vulnerabilities that they might have had and have closed these holes by more in-depth training and awareness of guests and staff," he says. "In today's society, all travelers are becoming interdependent on each other for safety and security."
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    This article talks about the future trend of the hospitality security, which is technology is opening new doors to hotel safety.  The author introduces some different technologies such as Contact-less Smartcards and RFID that hotels like New York's Plaza Hotel are currently using. Finger print or cellphone wipe technology is also used instead of card, which should be more safe. Some hotels even use video-capture systems to make sure the security is perfect. After introducing these technologies, the author also talks about the privacy issues. Because some customers are not willing to be on cameras. However, though some of them are concerning about this issue, an expert predicts that new security measures will eventually become such a part of everyone's everyday lives that he or she will become the norm. All in all, this article gives us the trend that more and more technologies will be used for hotel security in the future.
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    I think PR representatives should address the privacy controversy surrounding radio frequency identification technology with a safety campaign. This may help consumers realize that they are not in the privacy of their own home when they are in the hallways of hotels and cruise ships and the cameras/tracking could help protect them. As long as the data collected is not misused these technologies will continue to be present in these locations.
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    It's pretty important for the hospitality industry to present these new technologies as wonderful security measures. People could be put off by knowing they have to swipe their finger to get into a bathroom. The success of these technologies depends on effective marketing and proven security measures that ensure collected information about a traveller will not be used in unethical ways.
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    Interesting article it is. Security is always the big issue for hospitality. I would like to stay in a hotel that is using finger print as the key card of the hotel because i believe that is much safer than cards that anybody can access my room by using the card.
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    In this article all of the new trends for hotel security are described and examples of where they are being implemented are given. Thanks to technological innovations hotel safety is heading into a whole different level. Now key cards are being change to more sophisticated ones that need just to be waved to open a room door. In the near future it is expected for these cards to be used as a payment method and to check-in and check-out. In the U.S biometrics technology is starting to be used by a small number of properties not only for guests to access their rooms but for employees. Facial recognition systems with the ability of tracking guests and employees are also being implemented. This system helps to improves customer service as it helps to really understand guest's preferences, as enormous amount of information can be extracted as they are constantly being monitored. Other technologies are also being developed. The most amazing ones are the systems that track other unique human characteristics as the way a person walks or it's DNA.
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    The technology of hotel changes very fast, such as swipe of a cellphone or print of a finger, or the contact cards that need just be waved to allow room access. It is like the cruise world's one card system, these cards may soon make hotel stays easier by allowing guests to pay for services, as well as to check- in and check-out, through a single device. If customers lost their cards on cruise, the radio frequency identification and smartphone will provide customers their code via text message, so they can play back the code to unlock your room door. But more card free security systems are on the way. If you want to get into your room at New York's SoHo Loft , you are going to have to lift a finger. The Nine Zero Hotel in Boston us the technology to make the property safer all round ,that means non-staff members and intruders can not access the property. Systems that track the other qualities that make each human unique in development as well. The Houston's largest hotel has a facial recognition system that can identify and track guests and an annual $16 million payroll ,the system offers benefits such as employee time theft monitoring and prevention for the hotel. But with 1200 rooms worth of luggage in transit the system makes it a lot easier to find lost or misdirected bags The Wolfe feels that in addition to the biometrics and high-tech methods currently being deployed ,one of the greatest security measures of late is actually low tech.
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    The full name of RFID is radio-frequency identification. RFID is the use of a wireless non-contact system that uses radio-frequency electromagnetic fields to transfer data from a tag attached to an object, for the purposes of automatic identification and tracking. Some tags require no battery and are powered by the electromagnetic fields used to read them. Others use a local power source and emit radio waves (electromagnetic radiation at radio frequencies). The tag contains electronically stored information which can be read from up to several metres (yards) away. Now RFID in hospitality industry as a tool is used for improving service quality, customer satisfaction, market share, and profitability. As the new technology apply into hotel security, the hotels change their ways in the blink of an eye, or the swipe of a cell phone, or the print of a finger. With futuristic systems like scent and iris scanners and digital facial-recognition, hotel security is being taken to the high level and some of the luxury hotels begin to use RFID system. Usually customers will worry about lose the card of hotel. Then they can not open the door and even need to pay extra money to buy a new card. But now security systems in some hotels do away with cards altogether. Because of RFID system, customers can use the iPhone connect with the system. When a guest checks into a hotel and provides their phone number, they get an encrypted sound code via text message. Guests can play back the code to unlock your room door.
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    i think there are some factors to consider. Customer Service - Many opportunities for "great" customer service are lost if guest and employee interaction is diminished. In many cases, the front desk staff give the first impression that a guest experiences. This first "experience" can be crucial for referring the guest to other property amenities, i.e. spa, restaurants, lounge, pool, attractions, etc. Often, the front desk staff are acting as the concierge and resolvers of guest issues.
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    this article talks about new technology that is being implemented throughout out US and the world. Old key cards are now going to be replaced with even older standard keys or the radio frequency identification card that can be waived in front of the door to gain access. Also, there is a technology that will sent an encrypted sound text to guest;s cell phone, which when played back will open the door.  It talks about technology that tracks all employees, guests and their luggage.  There are several concerned that travelers have about their privacy, but article stated that it all depends on the type of the traveler.  Also, the face recognition technology used in Houston's largest hotel remembers guests names and when they return, guests are greeted by name.  Article concludes that even with all this technology, the best security is provided through interdependence of travelers and employees.  
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    Technology in the hotel travel and tourism industry will be changing drastically in the near future, from the swipe of a cell phone, print of a finger, facial recognition, iris scanners, security is going to be taken to the next level. the plastic key cards will soon no longer exist. Radio frequency I'd cards are the new thing, where guest will use this for preferences for everything, from charging things to your room, preference of floor type to pillow choice, chick in and out etc. systems that track the other qualities of a person instead of using a key or card are in development as well. There are research going on how to open the door and. Lose wi just the persons walk and movements. Some people think these new security technologies are awesome, while some think they are not, people dont want to be watched 24/7while on vacation they just want to enjoy there stay. But in today's society all travelers are becoming interdependent on each other for safety and security.
cborregomarsh

What Is Proximity Marketing and How Does It Work? - 0 views

  • location-based mobile marketing.It involves sending personalized messages to customers, or triggering other digital branded experiences, when their mobile devices approach a certain location
  • Proximity marketing is location-based mobile marketing. It involves sending personalized messages to customers, or triggering other digital branded experiences, when their mobile devices approach a certain location.
  • Geofencing technology lets a business send a message to a phone whenever it comes within a designated radius around a physical location.
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  • NFC lets a nearby phone securely communicate with an RFID (radio frequency identification) chip, so the chip can send customized information to the phone.
  • Beacons operate similarly to geofencing, but they work using Bluetooth technology instead of satellites and cell towers. A beacon is a device around half the size of a smartphone, and can send a Bluetooth signal within a 50–150 yard radius.
  • focused on customers who are already near your place of business, proximity marketing appeals to those most likely to purchase from you.
  •  
    Proximity marketing is a strategic way to market to your customer based on location. Through the use of NFC (Near-Field communication), Geofencing and Beacon, companies can send personalized messages, coupons or other digital branded experiences to customers within a certain radius of the place of business which is supposed to appeal to those most likely to make a purchase.
xwang023

Seoul hotel loans smartphones as room key | Hotel Management - 0 views

  • The idea of using smartphones as hotel keys has been picking up steam of late, especially as near field communication becomes more prevalent in mobile devices.
  • hotel launched the smart-key service on December 26, changing the locks and room controls in 16 of its rooms.
  • LG CNS and Hotel Skypark Central say this is the first time this particular technology has been used in a hotel anywhere in the world. 
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  • "Smart Green Platform
  • But some questions may make this possible trend less likely to spread
  • most importantly, how will guests who are less tech-savvy handle the new concept
  •  
    It's cool for me to use smartphones as hotel keys.I think it's easy to make guests understand what the new technology is and to use it in each check-in.In the end of the article we may face some questions from the guests. Such as will guests want an extra smartphone to carry, and will the rapid development of new smartphones and apps make any product the hotel purchases obsolete within mere ounths, and will the guests who are less tech-knowledge accept the new concept.
Sarah Black

A New Meeting Frequency - 0 views

  •  
    "A New Meeting Frequency" discusses near-field communication (NFC) and its gaining popularity with the meeting and event planning industry. This form of communication enables smart devices to have communication between each other; one acts as the writer, the other as the reader. According to meeting tech consultant Corbin Ball, "NFC marks the next step toward a cashless and paperless society".  Barclaycard and Chase, just to name a few, have adopted ISIS Mobile Wallet which lets customers make payments and collect rewards. "Industry professionals are beginning to see adoption in interactive events and business-to-customer trade shows", and are present in some current NFC applications. Contactless payment, automated ticketing, social networking, exchange of information (maps, business cards), registration, attendance access and control are some of the major ways this technology is utilized presently in the industry. Usage is slowly on the rise, particularly with regard to corporate networking events, and potential is huge.  NFC technology is extremely innovative, saves money and can be a great marketing tool.
rebecca Bonet

Study Touts Mobile Innovation as Major POS Influencer | News | Hospitality Magazine (HT) - 0 views

  • that current POS were not well integrated into other IT systems (28%); that the POS is not ready to grow with their company (26%); and that it is difficult to add additional modules or functionalities to the current POS (30%).
  • negative perceptions of wireless POS have given way to a more positive outlook
  • E-wallet payment was the most widely recognized new payment option with 36% of respondents indicating they wanted it with their next POS.
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  • Three quarters of respondents reported that mobile POS capabilities were the top technology features they wanted for next POS solutions.
  • that current POS were not well integrated into other IT systems (28%); that the POS is not ready to grow with their company (26%); and that it is difficult to add additional modules or functionalities to the current POS (30%).
  • and this was echoed in the VSR study. Three quarters of respondents reported that mobile POS
  • echoed in the VSR study. Three quarters of respondents reported that mobile POS capabilities were the top technology features they wanted for next POS solutions.   Reasons for this vary from improving the customer experience (63%); mobile POS providing associates with better tools (54%); speeding up checkout (39%); and providing a more mobile workforce (32%).
  • Reasons for this vary from improving the customer experience (63%); mobile POS providing associates with better tools (54%); speeding up checkout (39%); and providing a more mobile workforce (32%). 
  • According to the report, restaurant operators have a wish list of anticipated POS platforms that go beyond mobile POS (49%).
  • Improving payment options remains also was named as an important—if not dominant— POS technology for many respondents.
  • All of these payment options require a POS that is PCI Compliant and capable of recognizing the new payment technologies. E-wallet payment was the most widely recognized new payment option with 36% of respondents
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     In the customer survey the mobile POS requirement is high, and the online payment is also popular among consumers. The trend is obviously and the development of such technology will become beneficial investment for the company.  
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    This article shows us the result of VSR Magazine's first annual "2012 POS Study". The result indicated some developments and some worries of end users. 28% current POS were not well integrated into other IT systems, the POS is not ready to grow with their company, and it is difficult to add additional modules or functionalities to the current POS. But it also indicated negative perceptions of wireless POS have given way to a more positive outlook. Most of them wanted mobile POS capabilities to be the top technology features for next POS solutions because of three reasons. Firstly, mobile POS is vary from improving the customer experience. Secondly, mobile POS providing associates with better tools. In addition, it speeding up checkout and providing a more mobile workforce. Most of them wanted E-wallet payment in the next POS. some others were interested in near-field communication payment, while very few people want future POS to recognize near-field communication coupons.
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    The article talks about the results of first annual "2012 POS Study." The study were POS were not well integrated into IT systems 28% that the POS is not ready to grow with their company(26%) and to the additional modules or functionalities to the current POS ( 30%). Secondly, the study also shows the negative perceptions of wireless POS have given way for positive outcomes. For example, they want mobile POS capabilities were the top technology features they want for the next POS solutions. According to reports, restaurant operators have a wish list of anticipated POS platforms that go beyond mobile POS. Finally, E-wallet payment was the most widely recognized new payment option, with 36% of respondents that they want it with their next POS.
rebecca Bonet

Keeping hotel locks safe | Hotel Management - 1 views

  • Our Classic magstripe locks do not store critical security information within individual locks, such as master key information, and any service device must authenticate itself through diversified encryption methods to gain access to the lock software
  • VingCard Elsafe’s locks can also detect tampering and work to alert hotel security staff using the company’s VISIONLINE system. “[The VISIONLINE system] incudes alarms to alert the hotel front desk if someone attempts to tamper with a door lock as well as providing real time alerts to the hotel’s security staff when activity is detected that a card is being misused,”
  • Other alarms include detecting that a door is forced open, left open, or ‘mule tool’ intrusions when a door is opened from the inside handle without an occupant in the room.”
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  • VingCard Elsafe provides comprehensive training on the technology for the hotel staff and encourages everyone who will have interaction with the locks to participate
    • TIANJIAN ZHANG
       
      Nowadays, locks security is an essential issue in hospitality industry. Actually, most hotels upgrate their locks systems with advanced technology. The role of technology in the security sector is fundamental, but despite the rapid technological progress, one thing has remained constant: the importance of trust. Whether hoteliers wising up to the fact that they've bought what could be called a flawed security system will be willing to trust the supplier of said equipment for a fix.
  • After installation, hotels must work to keep their staff trained and their system upgraded to keep pace with the latest security issues. 
  • As hotel locks become increasingly automated, preventing them from becoming vulnerable to security concerns has become a top priority for hoteliers.
  • As hotel locks become increasingly automated, preventing them from becoming vulnerable to security concerns has become a top priority for hoteliers.
  • When VingCard Elsafe moved the industry towards RFID technology, security was one key driver, and our primary focus was to add additional security to the RFID card to prevent cloning. To that end, VingCard Elsafe hotel locking systems do not work with cards that have no anti-cloning capability.”
  • As hotel locks become increasingly automated, preventing them from becoming vulnerable to security concerns has become a top priority for hoteliers
  • , preventing
  • As hotel locks become increasingly automated, preventing them from becoming vulnerable to security concerns has become a top priority for hoteliers
  • As hotel locks become increasingly automated, preventing them from becoming vulnerable to security
  • “  Our Classic magstripe locks do not store critical security information within individual locks, such as master key information, and any service device must authenticate itself through diversified encryption methods to gain access to the lock software ,” Shea said. “  When VingCard Elsafe moved the industry towards RFID technology, security was one key driver, and our primary focus was to add additional security to the RFID card to prevent cloning. To that end, VingCard Elsafe hotel locking systems do not work with cards that have no anti-cloning capability.”
  • VingCard Elsafe’s locks can also detect tampering and work to alert hotel security staff using the company’s VISIONLINE system. “[The VISIONLINE system] incudes alarms to alert the hotel front desk if someone attempts to tamper with a door lock as well as providing real time alerts to the hotel’s security staff
  • VingCard Elsafe’s locks can also detect tampering and work to alert hotel security staff using the company’s VISIONLINE system. “[The VISIONLINE system] incudes alarms to alert the hotel front desk if someone attempts to tamper with a door lock as well as providing real time alerts to the hotel’s security staff when activity is detected that a card is being misused,”
  • For instance, a ‘wandering intruder alert’ warns hotel security personnel when a card is presented to a number of different doors.  Other alarms include detecting that a door is forced open, left open, or ‘mule tool’ intrusions when a door is opened from the inside handle without an occupant in the room.”
  • After installation, hotels must work to keep their staff trained and their system upgraded to keep pace with the latest security issues.  
  • VingCard Elsafe provides comprehensive training on the technology for the hotel staff and encourages everyone who will have interaction with the locks to participate ,”
  • As with any hotel upgrade, hoteliers understand that renovation and upgrades are a regular part of running their business
  • Looking past RFID solutions for instance, VingCard Elsafe has made our RFID locks compatible with next generation technologies, like Near Field Communications (NFC), providing our customers with an easy upgrade path at reasonable cost.”  
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    This article discusses the security issues with room keys. These hotel locks will not open with cards that are read as duplicates or duplicatable. The locking mechanism has been specifically designed to alert the front desk and secuirty departments in the event these locks are tampered with. I'm sure at one point or another we have all experimented with our room key and tried to open other doors. A system like this will prevent activity like that.
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    VingCard Elsafe, the global leader in hospitality security and part of the ASSA ABLOY Group, announces that it has phased out the use of brass metal plating and painting in the manufacture of its locking systems, opting instead to use a more eco-friendly process to color stainless steel. VingCard Elsafe has adopted a new method of metal coloration called physical vapor deposition, or PVD, an environmentally friendly process that involves vaporizing an alloy onto stainless steel within a heated vacuum. PVD requires no chemicals and produces no waste or hazardous materials of any kind, resulting in no environmental impact whatsoever. The PVD process has other added benefits, as well. PVD-treated surfaces have high wear resistance for discoloration, and the stainless steel adds enhanced anti-corrosion properties. Besides eliminating the negative environmental effects of the brass plating process, the move by VingCard Elsafe to simplify its lock manufacturing process has had other related green benefits. By doing away with the need for secondary surface treatments of the locks, new product components are now supplied directly from metal stamping to the point of use in the assembly line. This means less shipping and transportation is required for product manufacture, resulting in a diminished carbon footprint.
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    VingCard Elsafe is a new kind of lock system, which contains RFID technology and is compatible with the Near Field Communications. It has several advantages compared to traditional magstripe locks. First of all, it can add security to the RFID card and prevent cloning, which is much safer than the traditional key card. Another is that it can detect tampering and know when and where staffs use the lock. It can send alert to the front desk. Moreover, the front desk can know when the door is forced open. However, before using the lock system, training program should be provided. So this new kind of lock system brings safety to the guests and to the hotels.
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    This article talk about the issue that hotel are having with their security system lock for guest room. These cards are easy to duplicate. The new system will alert front desk or security if the lock has been tampered with. Other alarms include detecting that a door is forced open 'mule tool' instruction when a door is open from the inside handle without an occupant in the room.
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    This article discusses the current state of hotel lock safety. Monitoring safety has changed as these locks become more automated. The article states that, "Hotel Management corresponded with Tim Shea, president of ASSA ABLOY Hospitality, for ways in which vendors are keeping hotel locks secure." Through VingCard Elsafe's locks, hotel security and safety has increased. VingCard says, "Our Classic magstripe locks do not store critical security information within individual locks, such as master key information, and any service device must authenticate itself through diversified encryption methods to gain access to the lock software." This is just one of the ways the locks increase security. The article also states that the system is cost-effective for hoteliers.
cmogu001

Google's Green Initiative: Environmentally Conscious Technology - 1 views

  • Progress depends on radical innovation
  • the company still released information detailing the progress of its environmentally-friendly initiatives.
  • an application plug-in that would help automobiles determine where you are going,
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  • This technology, called Prediction, maximizes fuel and power consumption, which effectively reduces carbon emissions
  • Google has made its environmentally-conscious initiatives well-known
  • French authorities have used Google’s mapping services to determine agricultural regions that should face water restrictions.
  • Google would be nowhere without its data centers.
  • managing to half their data center energy use through practical thinking, using the excess energy to power office complexes, Google has effectively cut down on its environmental impact.
  • Google is now providing information to indigenous tribes on deforestation, giving them the ability to track and prevent the atrocity from taking place.
  • cutting down on the emissions of data farms or having goats roam Google’s campus to eliminate the need for fertilizer and lawn mowers, the company has always strived to cut down on greenhouse gases.
  • Google’s long-term goal of running entirely on renewable energy is growing closer and closer.
  • Google is constantly searching for ways to ensure that it never consumes excessive gas.
  • Instead of trying to purge carbon from its systems, Google invests in “off-setting” its carbon emissions by investing in green initiatives that would not have the funding to survive otherwise.
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    This article expounds how Google is contributing to the future green advancements of the world by implementing them in their every day operations. Although developing next-generation consumer electronics is an extremely lucrative sector of technology, Google has shifted their thinking away from the immediate consumer electronics field, moving towards the development of green technology. The article further mentions Google's wide-range of environmentally-friendly initiatives which includes the development of an application plug-in that would help automobiles determine where the driver is going that in turn reduces energy use, incorporates renewable energy, and offsets carbon emissions. Also, despite the large amount of Google data centers, Google has managed to cut their energy use in half through practical thinking that included purchasing a wind farm in Iowa with plans of running entirely on renewable energy in the near future. The company also made it a point to cut down on greenhouse gases by having goats roam their Google campus to eliminate the need for fertilizer and lawn movers. In conclusion, by adopting unconventional techniques for effectively lowering its environmental impact, the company has become a model example for more companies to think outside of the box and focus on implementing green technology in an efficient and innovative manner.
angelamenoher

Mobile Commerce and Payments: Not Quite Ready For Prime Time? - 0 views

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    Despite the fact 50 % of guests use their smart phones to book hotels, recent research reveals they are not ready to pay for their rooms after they stay with the same phones. Near Field Communication (NFC) would allow guests to simply wave their phones at a kiosk to check out instantly paying and updating the hotels accounts. Fear of cellphones being stolen are the general apprehensions of this new technology that would eliminate carrying a credit card. After the smart phone market matures hotels airlines and restaurants will be able to take advantage of the swift mobile payment technology.
angelamenoher

Point of Sale Technology: New Developments - 0 views

  •  
    This article provides a brief overview of the emerging trends for hotel management information systems. The trends focus on easy mobile access, unattended point of sale, radio frequency identification and near field communications. An increasing number of hotel are using the the cloud for on the go mobile connectivity to their POS systems and revenue management software SaaS. You can manage your hotel from anywhere and be up to date instantly. This trend and the next eliminates the need for desk or office time. Lilipad has created an I-product that allows guests to perform their own transactions at I-Pad kiosk which eliminates time at the front desk. The other large emerging trend is tracking devices that can be implanted in phones or even loyalty cards that link to bank and credit card accounts replacing the traditional wallet. While other articles say there is no rush to cellphones replacing wallets just yet, hotels like Aloft are using RFID's in there loyalty cards eliminating the issue of room keys. Notice in all these trends that the face to face contact with guests that we hospitality students enjoy and train for is decreasing with every new technology.
Ruoxi Wang

Unlocking the future: Hotels to see new security technology - Hospitality Portal - Hote... - 1 views

  • Your mobile can now literally be the key to your future and open many doors, thanks to a new technology that can have your cellphone talking to your locks.
  • Frequent travellers can now skip the check-in and check-out process into hotels, collecting keys at reception counters and spending time in lounges paying bills, thanks to Near Field Communication technology that makes mobiles do your work, says Sanjeev Anand, sales and key accounts manager, India, of VingCard Elsafe, supplier of hospitality security solutions worldwide.
  • His entry is automatically recorded on the front desk.
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  • The technology enables a user with an NFC-enabled mobile and a booking in an NFC-enabled hotel to breeze in and out, sans all hassles. After initial booking on arrival by flight, train or bus, the traveller's mobile is automatically loaded with an electronic wallet and encrypted code and hotel room number.
  • It can also be used to pay bills in his room or at the lobby kiosk without wasting time at the counter or stepping out of a room early to complete all formalities and hurrying to catch a flight or train.
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    This is an amazing technology. A customer can use his cellphone to do the reservation, check-in, enter the room and pay the bill. If  this technology can be widely used in this industry. It really can bring a lot of convenience to both the hotels and the customers. It is also very safe, because only your cellphone can open your room and the cellphone is also a identification of a customer. But there are two concerns. First is the cost of this technology and the hardware. It can be too much to afford for the hotels. Second, is it really that safety. What if someone lose his mobile?
ypere044

Apple Point-of-Sale Upgrade Signals Better Security, NFC Access - 0 views

  • EasyPay mobile point-of-sale (POS) system
  • the company has taken a pre-emptive strike to ensure the security of customer credit card transactions and prepare for the future possibility of contact-less credit card purchases
  • the device accepts chip-and-pin (EMV) cards, which offer the current maximum level of account security.
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  • NFC-equipped smartphone might be tapped to exchange information with the EasyPay device.
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    This article introduces the upgrade to the EasyPay mobile POS system used in the US by Apple. The company has improved it's POS system by choosing to use new hardware (the iPhone 5s) and enhancing the hardware with a hard shell, accepting chip-and-pin (EMV) cards as well as a pin pad, and a Near Field Communications (NFC) feature in which smart phones may exchange information with the EasyPay. The article also talks about the future of chip-and-pin cards, Visa and MasterCard may be forced to begin using chip-and-pin cards by October of 2015. There is also talks of Apple including NFC features in their phones making it easier for guests to pay, share pictures and documents. 
vmorr026

Technology in the hospitality industry - exploring the very latest trends - 3 views

  • Nowadays, hotel guests who travel with devices such as phones, tablets and computers no longer see Wi-Fi as a perk, but as a must-have when they check in at a hotel. 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). It 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.
  • Technology is advancing at a faster pace than ever before, and this is changing both the expectations of patrons as well as the way in which the hospitality industry conducts its business. Some of the trends in industry are leading to great improvements and savings for hospitality industry companies; while some are changing how hotel developers plan their buildings, infrastructure, management structure and staffing requirements.
  • 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.
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  • This technology is also ideal for self check-ins by guests at hotels as well as the next trend in this article: smart room keys.
  • 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. 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. Another innovative way to offer a keyless experience is through fingerprint-activated room entry systems and retina scanning 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 in place of key cards to control access to the hotel’s presidential suite.
  • Some hotels are already offering more futuristic experiences, with robots delivering any items ordered through room service to a guest’s door. 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. These types of digital systems not only make it easy for hotel staff to deliver items to guests, but it also offers a forward-facing digital experience to people who stay at the hotel. Infrared scanners are now also used to minimise disruptions relating to housekeeping (which is a common complaint from customers). Instead of hanging a ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign on doors or having cleaning staff wake up traveling guests with knocks and phone calls, 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.
  • Digital conference facilities Besides being able to offer high density Wi-Fi for conferences and meetings, hotels also need to be able to offer access to audio-visual (AV) and digital facilities for conferences. 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.
  • Mobile communication and automation In many airports, it’s no longer necessary to stand in a queue to check in and people are expecting the same kind of easy, technology-driven check-ins at hotels. 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.
  • Cloud services Being able to provide entertainment on tap and mobile content has led to the trend of hotels investing in cloud services. While hotels want to be able to offer digital content, they don’t necessarily want to invest in IT infrastructure and IT staff, making cloud computing the ideal solution.
  • Feedback on social media Technology has infiltrated almost every aspect of our lives and hotel developers need to realise that almost any person checking in at a hotel, resort, spa or lodge, will have a smartphone in their pockets.
  • Converged LANs to support multiple services Converged local area networks (LANs) will also help hotels to create more intelligent buildings. A variety of computer-based 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. If a guest is known to prefer his or her room temperature at 18°C with the lights dimmed to 65%, for example, this can be programmed before the guest checks in at the hotel.
  • Integrated, seamless experiences Technology doesn’t mean that customer experience can only happen online and through devices, check-ins and online comments. 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.
  • 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 that can lead to positive change and growth in the industry.
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    With technology evolving and changing at a fast pace it is changing both what consumers expect and how the Hospitality industry responds to these expectations as well as how they do business themselves. The article highlights the many trends in the Hospitality industry. These trends include the improving and overhauling of a Wi-Fi network, conference rooms that offer Audio visual equipment, Smart room keys and many other different trends.
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    In today's world we are surrounded by technology; however, sometimes we do not realize the extreme of which we are surrounded by until we stop and look around. The Hospitality industry is quickly adapting to the technologically world we live it. I read an article written by Jeff Robinson, Technical Director for Aurecon titled "Technology in the hospitality industry - exploring the very latest trends". This article was beyond interesting because it touched on some on the way technology has already changed the hospitality industry and ways it will be changing it for the future. Robinson tells us in his article that "some of the trends in industry are leading to great improvements and savings for hospitality industry companies; while some are changing how hotel developers plan their buildings, infrastructure, management structure and staffing requirements". This means its not only about the bottom dollar, but the experience of each guest when they stay at the hotel. Robinson also states the obvious fact that travelers these days do not see Wi-Fi as a perk, but more of a must have. Full access to audio-visual is also on the must have list especially for business meetings and conferences. What I found most interesting from Robinson's article was the introduction of the Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. This technology give you the ability to share information from a short-range frequency wireless communication. This technology is also ideal for self check-ins by guests at hotels as well as smart room keys.(Robinson) Hotel room keys have come a long way. From an actual key, key card in which you insert, to a key card you simply pass close to the reader and now the birth of the smart key. "Smart room access system allow guests to unlock their doors by simply swiping their phones across a keyless pad on the door.". (Robinson) Now how awesome is that. Robinson also talks about other new technology just as the future of hotel in room entertainment, hotels offering
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    It has been well described and defined that technology impacted the hospitality industry in which it has advantage and disadvantages. The update and development of software creates a change in the business. This justifies that better software leads to better customer service. For this development has given most business opportunity to grow as they give them better tools.
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