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This article speaks to importance of consumers to have seamless experiences with Hotels through their entire journey. It speaks to the need for data driven management that integrates multiple sources to afford the tools to the front line to contextualize recovery, offer solutions and to communicate with guests by their preferred channel of communication. It cites the example of Marriott and Salesforce partnership and how the implementation is approaching the guest experience through multiple touch points through the deployment of guest management solutions that leverage AI, CRM and analytics to make interactions meaningful, relevant and human.

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.

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

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.

Naples Grande Beach Resort (a personal competitor for my property) has upgrades its PBX system and chosen Cloud5, a cloud based system that allows for on-going integration that does not degrade over time. As stated in the article, "With Cloud5's hosted solution, our systems are always current with the latest software functionality, without the need to purchase future expensive upgrades or interrupt hotel operations. We're always operating with the most advanced features that allow us to deliver fast, reliable guest service across our expansive resort. This upgrade has even reduced monthly telecommunications expenses which adds value directly to our bottom-line.". This very statement intrigued me as I recall when my property transitioned to HotSOS for our PBX software. Like most other softwares, integration with Opera our rooms system was a challenge and it was not without hiccup and initial challenges. Because it is not cloud based, the property does need to purchase upgrades and re-install in individual areas throughout the property. Our Sales team does however, work off an internet based software - Salesforce - and it allows not only for easier and seamless integration, but it also allows us to access it from home. It will be interesting to see how Cloud5 changes the guest experience for those at Naples Grande and how many other companies will begin moving towards this format of system.

The article highlights the hospitality industry's issues by not adopting and investing in new technologies and the solutions to those problems. In 2018 digital travel sales worldwide reached $694 billion, indicating that having an online presence is a must to reach and attract more travelers. Hotels have increased spending on marketing techniques with metasearch and online travel review sites to increase online visibility. A majority of marketing budget spending now goes into online activities. The goal is to drive more direct bookings, and these techniques, along with mobile sites, are effective distribution channels. In addition to this, hotels are investing in reputation management tools to maintain a positive online reputation. Over 95% of travelers read reviews before booking reservations, so having a positive presence is crucial. Technology is also driving the personalization of the guest experience. Investments into services like mobile check-in/check-out, keyless entry, smart climate and lighting control, location-based digital guided tours, and in-room tablets enhance guest satisfaction and provide a more seamless experience. With the emergence of the pandemic, this technology is getting pushed to the forefront of investments as must-haves to comply with new regulations and gain consumer confidence in coming back. This technology also collects data on your guest's preferences and behaviors, which will lead to better personalized services on their future stays. In addition to enhancing the guest experience, it also enhances your hotel operations. Investing in technologies increases employee productivity and improves operating efficiency.

In 2017, Royal Caribbean announced they were making a huge investment in technology that will make the cruisers' experience easier, more seamless and a lot more fun. They are developing a new app that will first include a cruise schedule and on-board activities. This app will eventually grow and include registration, excursion bookings and facial recognition plus games built in. Royal Caribbean believes to stay competitive you need to stay on top of technology and include it wherever you can. As of this article, the app was available on 2 of their ships and will hopefully be added to their entire fleet (including all 6 of their brands) within the next few years. The company believes in creating this technology from within the company and outsourcing as little as possible.

An article which discusses 6 major technology investment trends within the Hotel industry that are key to staying competitive for modern hotels. The article takes into account several aspects of information technology, including security, mobile data, and even energy conservation, and goes into considerable detail about why each is important.

In 2016 many different hotel brands will begin to feature mobile bookings and check in options, to room access. This new feature will be a vital in helping with the check in and check out process. This will help alleviate the pressure off the front desk when the hotel occupancy is at its highest. 84% of operators are planning to get the technology in 18 months. However, in my opinion this will be really good because working in the hotel industry for 7 years i witnessed front desk being very overwhelmed with guest check ins. With the latest technology in 2016 the mobile check in feature can make everyone's life a bit smoother providing a seamless process to an amazing stay at your hotel of choice.

(1 of 3) This Hotel Technology News article discusses the various technology advancements in Hotel Event Planning and what their effects were predicted to be for 2020. As the article states, "With each passing year, events seem to get bigger and better, boasting exciting new technology, catering to attendees' needs in finer detail, and bringing guests together in unique venue spaces for a variety of occasions." The event industry continues to grow as people continue to desire more unique, memorable experiences. Event planners struggle with advancing their experiences, but with the help of technology they are able to continue to grow each year. This process starts with the booking experience and Venue Management Technology has gained popularity in creating seamless booking experiences. "Whether marketing to a transient guest, event attendees, or a corporate group, hoteliers and event planners are in the business of meeting and exceeding expectations." With venue management technology, event planners are able to make memorable experiences starting with the booking of the venue all the way until days after the event. Venue management platforms provide everything to the event planners at their fingertips.

(2 of 3) The article continues on to discuss that while large events are extremely lucrative, venues must make sure to consider smaller events as well. "Ensure your venue space is equipped for events and meetings of various scale, and work closely with planners to ensure an attentive, personalized experience while bringing their event or meeting to life." Meetings are going to continue to grow so venues must continue to adjust and be equipped for anything a consumer might desire. This may include non-traditional events or venue spaces as well. While classic hotel convention spaces may not be as popular anymore, hotels are challenged to utilize and market their space differently to attract new consumers. With the event industry, as with any segment in hospitality, the ultimate purpose is to leave lasting impressions on guests. In recent years, the use of technology has been great in assisting this idea. Venues who have mastered creating a memorable experience have often done so by "using new-age features and platforms to create a frictionless event, engage attendees on a deeper level, and create meaningful, memorable experiences." Venue management tools are also used in making these experiences for guests. The article left readers with three takeaways. The first being that venues need to utilize technology to make them more effective in areas such as RFP response and the way that they offer their services. The second takeaway is that businesses need to evaluate their current technology partners and make sure to choose a partner that will allow them to best create memorable events. The final key takeaway is that venues must increase conversions and improve venue listings with things such as real-time availability and strategic pricing.

(3 of 3) This article was very interesting in its description of the technology used in the event industry and predictions for the future of events. It is quite apparent that this article was written at the beginning of 2020, though. I do believe the event industry was headed in this direction, but, as with the rest of the hospitality industry, I believe events will see a massive decrease over the next few years and then pick back up in the future. Due to the risks associated with Covid-19, consumers are not finding in-person meetings or events necessary. Many organizations have resorted to digital meetings and cancelled any events, causing a huge loss for the industry. I believe that as the rest of the industry recovers, events will slowly follow and eventually make their way back to their pre-pandemic predictions.

The article seeks to explore the advances in PMSs by reviewing past features and performance and looking towards the future advancements. The industry is facing a gradual but eventual change in integration. The article reflects on how legacy vendors have been slow to evolve due to infrastructure and using integrations to develop revenue. This puts traditional systems in a precarious situation that will leave them behind if they don't evolve. The new systems focus on using Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), cloud based systems, stacked levels of integration, marketplaces and middleware to work seamlessly with CRMs and CRSs.

In envisioning hotels in the 2030s, technology plays a transformative role for Accor's C-Suite. Executives emphasize "augmented hospitality," which entails highly personalized guest experiences driven by advanced technology. They anticipate a future where AI and generative AI enable micro personalization throughout the guest journey. From recognizing guests' preferences to offering tailor-made room settings, technology ensures a unique and seamless experience. Furthermore, technology is poised to revolutionize booking processes. Accor is exploring AI-driven marketplace platforms where customers interact directly with hotels. This shift eliminates intermediaries, offering real-time, personalized offers. Additionally, the potential use of NFTs for unique experiences and virtual exploration aligns with Accor's tech-forward vision. In essence, technology will be the linchpin in crafting memorable and individualized hotel experiences in the 2030s.

This article gives a great explanation of how these technologies are changing the industry. AR giving the guests a 'try it before you buy it' experience where guests can virtually visit a hotel room, and walk around 360. With the projections of how the demographics will travel and their demands, millions are now being spent on adding these technologies from the booking process though the entire guest cycle. Major hotel brands have begun implementing AI,AR and VR into their product offerings which shows there will be no slowing down anytime soon.

AI, AR and VR have increased their technology and their purposes inside the hotel industry over time. However because of covid and the necessities it got more trendy and became more useful. Know a days all of these technologies are used in many ways from helping the operations, to providing clients with a seamless and contact-less experience, with creating experiences for kids, showing details of the amenities in a hotel, tours to make reservations and unique opportunities to grow. These technologies will change tremendously in the upcoming years and will change completely the way the hospitality industry operates and how clients interact with it.

This article foresees the benefits of Ai, AR, and VR technology within the hospitality industry. It also provides statistical analysis of revenue and customer expectation. Additionally, it gives a prediction of innovations to come.

This article is about the top emerging technology trends within the hospitality industry. It was actually pretty interesting to read about certain trends that I had never heard of before, such as augmented reality. My main takeaway from this article is that hotels are focusing more and more on incorporating bigger and better technology as we delve deeper into the technological era.

This article went into depth about the recent technological innovations being seen within the hospitality industry and how these pieces of disruptive innovation are changing the way hotels operate forever. One of the main catalysts for an increase in the speed of change has been the COVID 19 pandemic. A move to touchless and more hygenic aspects of operations was essential to get businesses back up and running while investments in these innovations lead the way for more and more advancement. These changes are forcing the whole industry to evolve as the pressure to keep up with changes to food and beverage, guest services, and amenities are all being shaken by technological advancement.

This article talks about the different types of technology created based on the trends in the world of the hospitality industry. Hotels are not trying to continue to be a competitive with technology that appears to clientele. Not only it will entertain guests, but also assist with improving operations and accuracy.

The hospitality industry is finally realizing the advantages of Cloud Computing and are transitioning to it. Hotels want to deliver better guest experiences by providing contactless experiences from checking in to checking out. The on-premises PMS system is moving to the Cloud. This offers better security, reduced costs, universal access and much more.

This article discusses research that shows four hotel technology challenges in 2019. These challenged include Interoperability, Data Management, Security & Privacy, and Responsiveness. It argues that hotel management should be aware of these technologies because they can either help or hinder your business.

This is an excellent article that explores that businesses in the hospitality face in their day to day running. The challenges that the article points out identifies include the interoperability of hotel technology systems, the management of data, the security and privacy of data, especially in the current era of cloud computing, and the responsiveness of hotel technologies. Although hotel technologies improve guest experience and foster efficiency in hospitality companies, such challenges may adversely their efficiency, and thus, adversely affect guest experience.

This article discusses what we talked about this week in regards to the different types of technological disruptors in the hospitality industry. It discusses data management issues, privacy issues, and how responsiveness can be improved within hotels. This article will be useful for future research as I look more into artificial intelligence within the hotel industry.

The advancement of technology is improving daily. As a business personnel it important to constantly improve customer satisfaction and the operation of business. It is important to create a cost and benefit analysis on devices to overlook their operations. On the other hand, it should be a priority that it can develop improvement to the front and back office operations. Digital transformation has methods that can be used to enhance operations, in the area's of strategy, innovation, experiences, operations and trust.

The cloud has made hotel operations run smooth and seamless. Cloud computing has made hotels be able to reach their customers all around the world with their rates and information. it has given hotels the opportunity to scale up or down depending on the online traffic they experience in certain seasons. It has facilitated hotels to provide customers with a unique and customer experience by sharing their preferences across different properties using the cloud. It has helped reduce costs and simplify IT.

In the emerging "post-COVID-19 economy" hoteliers are having to make serious changes to current operations in order to make guests feel safe to travel again. The biggest tool in this is the reliance on cloud computing for a more contactless hotel experience. Hotels are now working directly with cloud computing companies to create seamless apps for the best hotel stay experience.