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This article indicated a kind of building structure and material for reducing the energy usage. Green building includes employing responsible, energy-efficient means in creating living, working and storage structures. Green building reduced energy usage by installing insulation. And this article introduced GREENGUARD certification to enhance the green movement. GREENGUARD Certification guarantees that the insulation is tested to ensure that chemical and particle emissions meet stringent indoor air quality pollutant standards. Considering the green hotel, this can be reducing the energy usage of hotel operation, the owner could be save cost, also save the environment.

It was recently brought to my attention that Donald Trump has expanded his portfolio with the $150 million dollar purchase of Miami's Doral Hotel & Country Club. I was casually watching the coverage of the 2012 World Golf Cadillac Championship on NBC and saw Ivanka and Donald on the screen but just brushed it off because of their well known passion for golf. To be honest, it was more exciting for me to see Watson fall to Rose after missing a birdie putt in the playoff round. Anyways, after searching Market Watch for 'IT Investment' and 'RFP' I stumbled upon this article and it all made sense. I am now pleased to summarize the exciting $200 million dollar investment Mr. Trump made with intentions to "reposition all aspects of the resort" resulting in a "greatly enhanced guest experience." Although not explicitly stated, I assume this investment will also include a 'renovation' of the current IT structure of the hotel and country club to increase productivity, revenue and ultimately ROI. Linda Robertson, from the Miami Herald, reported on March 8th that Mr. Trump stated, "to have 800 acres in a city like Miami -that opportunity will never arise again." It will be interesting to see how The Trump Organization follows through on their investment and achieves their goal of making Doral a "world-class facility benefiting of the resort." This article also mentions that The Trump Hotel Collection had been selected by GSA as the preferred developer for Washington D.C.'s The Old Post Office after an "exhaustive" Request For Proposal review. After researching the topic I could not find for what exact reasons he won, besides money. I will take a further look into the news. A lot of exciting new developments for The Trump Organization in the recent few months.

This article is definition of telecommunication network. It introduces the basic segments of telecommunication network, and lists the types of telecommunication network. At the last, it also offers some example to show the telecommunication network. From this article, I can know the function of terminals, channels, processors, computers and control soft wares. And there are three main components in the structure of telecommunication network. According to the different geographic area, the telecommunication network has different types.

The hospitality industry can be extremely overwhelming if all departments are not in sink because one department depends on the other. In order to increase efficiency and service delivery various hardware and software systems have to be implemented. For example: an application for making hotel reservations which is used to check availability of rates and rooms could be NovaPlus from multi system incorporation. This program provides access for the guest and allows hotel management to modification accessibility to discounts on base rates. Another software needed in the hotel industry is the point of sale which the PlacePoint program can be used from multi system incorporation. In this program employee/guest can place orders in the menu and it is known to be structured as user friendly. One of the most important applications in the industry would be the Property management application which is where all the guest contact information, preferences, revenue management and room sales strategy are located. Overall there are a numerous of software and hardware necessary in order to run a hotel efficiently. From my own experience I have worked with 3 different PMS systems, Brilliant, Epitome and Opera, it just seems that after learning one system I find that it was better then the last one. As technology advances I have found that the more updated PMS systems like Opera , work much better and have facilitated my working environment and user friendly. Whatever the previous systems lacked in efficiency for the employee, the new system definitely gained.

The hospitality industry consists of a service industry that includes lodging restaurants event planning transportation and so on. It relies heavily on the availability of leisure time and disposable income. It all requires the aid of facility maintenance, direct operations, housekeepers, kitchen workers, etc in which they all serve the industry in different ways. So this program helps runs a hotel business for example a lot smoother for the guests and hotel management. These PMS programs although not always reliable if there were a power outage, are all well structured and efficient. Epitome for example is backed by highly effective training, may offer considerable value for money and is continued by ongoing support and assistance.

This article discusses the types of information Technology that is used in the Hospitality industry. These systems are needed, to make sure the business runs seamlessly without problem. Most of the systems rely on each other to run properly, and different departments need these systems in order to make the whole business work together efficiently. The essential Technology needed is Computer Software and hardware. Reservation Technology for booking guests. Property management application, POS Systems, and applications for Food and beverage and conference management.

Like any industry, the field of tourism and hospitality must be competitive and technologically advanced. The article addresses six technological trends within the hospitality industry. 1. Virtual reservations - A significant number of patrons reserve their hotels via a computer or mobile device. Thus travel booking websites have become more popular. 2. Virtual check-in and ordering - Check-in kiosks cut down on customer wait time (long lines, short staff, etc.). More hotels and restaurants will be making use of these technologies. As technology advances, consumers shouldn't be surprised to see more futuristic options such as voice recognition, fingerprint and retina ID. 3. Travelers with multiple devices - Hotels have to be conscientious of this fact in terms of room design, public (hotel) space and structure. Customers want to feel secure that they (and their devices) can be properly accommodated. 4. Hospitality staff with multiple devices - This trend is a win-win for employees and customers. Employees can better meet the needs of their customers no matter their location (poolside, bar, lobby, etc.). Also, by collecting data, businesses have a better understanding of customer needs and preferences. Customers have the freedom to be more mobile (in any area of the hotel) without feeling disconnected or not being able to have their needs met. 5. High tech meeting and public space - Hotel meeting rooms and lobbies are receiving technological make-overs to accommodate users who rely on multiple devices. This is great for business as it creates an environment that is conducive to conducting technologically advanced meetings and conferences in a comfortable setting. 6. Online reviews - These reviews are crucial to businesses as well as consumers. On the business end, companies will be able to gauge their effectiveness in all areas via honest customer feedback. Consumers have the opportunity to make better choices after reading reviews based on ot

FIFA has paid noticeable attention to the environmental impact of the World Cup since the 2006 World Cup and green management has increased with every World Cup since with the biggest plans already staged for years 2018 and 2022. The Green Goal environmental program has been in effect since 2005 when FIFA partnered with Local Organizing Committees (LOCs) in order to champion green initiatives. This program has been adapted for every World Cup since. The program combines the resources of host cities, governmental departments, local environmentalists and international partners. Now, FIFA is implementing green initiatives into the bidding process for 2018 and 2022 by requesting information pertaining to the reduction and control of negative environmental impacts from bidders prior to making a decision on where to host the World Cup. In my opinion, FIFA has adequately worked towards environmental sustainability over the past ten years and has powerful plans to continue and improve green initiatives going forward. Previously, the indoctrination of the Green Goal program in 2005 laid the foundation for green goals and growth. Each subsequent World Cup has relied on a Green Goal program to set and measure environmental initiatives. Also, FIFA has already begun working on the Green Goal for 2018 and 2022 by requiring potential host destinations to incorporate environmental sustainability into the management structure of the mega-event. Management is required to set measurable objectives in six key areas: water, waste, energy, transportation, procurement and climate change. In addition, potential host destinations are required to plan and explain how they will incorporate stakeholders and the community via an Environmental Advisory Board. All of these aspects must be outlined in the bid submitted for consideration by FIFA and will be weighed heavily during the host location decision process.

FIFA's decision to use involved green standards as part of the bidding process for World Cups 2018 and 2022 is ingenious. The rigorous standards and expectations eliminate cities that are unwilling or unable to do the research and prep work required for the environmental concerns associated with such a large and prestigious event. However, these same circumstances caused increased competition between the remaining cities and come with some sort of financial cost. The increased competition between potential host cities and the associated higher costs pertaining to the implementation of green strategies may be seen as negatives to involved commercial/government entities and community conservatives. The following comparison explains how this may be so. Companies often design buildings with minimal closets despite having a large need for storage space. The philosophy behind this is "closets don't make money." On the contrary, entertainments space (i.e. Casinos), larger sales floors (i.e. Car Dealerships) and management offices are all spaces in which money is generate and therefore income is maximized by maximizing the "money-generating space" and minimizing spaces (i.e. closets) that do not do so. Similarly, green initiatives guarantee extra expenses and do not generate a significantly increased income. Some entities may view green initiatives as "closets." In conclusion, FIFA is a powerful force in the green initiative campaign. The organization has worked tirelessly the last 15 years to implement and improve environmental initiatives related to the World Cup. Despite the outside chance that a significant portion of the population will view green initiatives as costly non-necessities, I believe that FIFA's Green Goal program will be a success. It provides an expanding platform for each subsequent Word Cup by requiring environmental initiatives to be implemented at the management level and begin at the earliest point possible: bidding.

The hospitality industry is recognizing how imperative it is to run your hotel in a way where it will not only benefit you and your business but for the environment as well. Many hotels are making an effort to making an effort to become certified by means of having a going green business. In addition to certification, businesses in the hospitality industry are contributing to this go green effort by seeking specific goals and priorities. Hotels for example are focusing on how to save energy and water conservation, solid waste management, land use and indoor air quality. Changing basic hotel equipment such as toilets, solar heating, washing machines/dryers, refrigerators to "green products" can create a big difference in hotel energy costs and help save the environment as well. When a hotel owner applies for certification they are carefully inspected to verify compliance on how well the hotel manages their business efficiently by saving energy, water and disposing wastes properly for example. Even something so small as using the right cleaning supplies can have a positive impact on the environment. Not only does going green lower hotel costs but they also receive tax rebates, zoning permits and other incentives to persuade hotels to go green.

In todays world, where ecoturism is the fastest growing market in the hospitality industry, hotel managers and owners realize the importance of running their properties in an environmentally responsible way. These initiatives usually translate in to greater customer recognition and loyalty. Some of the ways they achieve this is thru certifications, such as LEED which focuses on improvements to buildings and structures in order to maximize operations such as energy performance, conservation of water and other resources.

In an effort to become more environmentally conscious, many hotels and resorts have taken major steps, from pre construction to customer requests, to reduce their "carbon footprint". These establishments understand the value of "going green" not just to increase their long term profits but also to cater to a growing demand for more environmentally friendly recreational outlets. Going green is more than just a fad. Therefore, it is imperative, to stakeholders, within the hospitality and tourism industry to make the necessary changes to maintain a competitive edge.

The premise of the article is based around the future of Quick Service Restaurants (QSR) and food delivery services within the industry. Within it is the premise it states that the Total Addressable Market for delivery will increase from $60 billion to $220 billion. Furthermore it notes that Amazon's acquisition of Wholefoods and the use of technology in more traditional restaurants may effect QSR performance. That being said though QSR like McDonald's, Dominoes, and Panera, have spent a considerable amount on their I.T structure to further compete with the trend.

Hotels rely on the information that is accessed through different intermediary systems that give each property information on their customers, as well as insight on their comp set. OTAs play a key role in assisting properties generate revenue, they have different processes in place such as pay per clicks or commissions involved when bookings are made through their websites. Marketing plays a key role in both OTAs and a properties direct website. Websites must be user friendly, easily accessible and have the ability to function on a mobile device. Majority of bookings are made online and and increasing amount are being made through a mobile device. Ensuring that each of these platforms creates a welcoming environment for each potential guest maximizes the chances of them booking.

An effective marketing strategy starts with knowing your customers and your goals. it is important to understand how to attract online shoppers, increase conversion rates, and have data mining tools to understand the customer's preferences and booking patterns to be able to develop a long-lasting relationship.OTAs and GDS remain an essential part of the industry, as they provide marketing exposure to a wider range of market segments.

Although this article circulates around hospitality, it just goes to show how broad networking has become in this day and age. Individuals from all over the work are using networks to connect with one another and form communities. Throughout the article, the author refers to Andrea Wittel's notion of network sociality and relates it network hospitality. The article goes on to state that Wittel's use of the term 'network' refers both to new structures of electronic connectivity and to practices of making social and professional ties.

This article highlights the importance of event registration stage. According to the survey, registration produces up to 48% of total event revenue. Thus, it is crucial for the event planners to make this stage easy and effective. As internet gives an opportunity to easily submit registration information online the event planners need to make sure that they make the whole process simple and convenient. First, mobile integration is very important. Since more and more people access internet from their smartphones and tablets rather than from their desktops, a great attention should be paid to the mobile compatibility of the service. The prefilled fields could be automatically offered to save registrants' time. Mobile integration could also imply automatic check-in with RFID badges at a conference or surveys that are pushed to the attendees' phones after they are checked in. To increase registration numbers some easy steps could be undertaken. The form could contain easy links to share the event on social media. The "no" registrants may be offered "regret surveys" and asked to reference those who might be interested to attend. Electronic event registration provides the event planners with plenty of structured personal information. It could be used for personalization and customization of services and further engagement of the attendees. So in my opinion, event registration software gives the event planners a powerful tool to engage the people coming to the event and make their experience unique by the means of customization and personalization. It also helps to keep the track of all registrants for further marketing.

This article has many ideas to incorporate "green" ideas into the physical plant structure of a hotel. For example, it suggests building your staff into a more "green" awareness. Also, it has several ideas on how to save energy and reduce. Additionally, it has numerous suggestions on building maintenance. For example, using the Energy Star Portfolio Manager will aid in waste tracking.

This article gives guidance on how to turn traditional into green hotels. It is about energy efficiency and how it can be improved in many ways affecting direct the physical plant of the company. It contains data with charts to explain in detail how energy efficiency affects expenses and costs structures, and how a business impact the environment. This article shows that improvements are estimated to yield savings in all areas, but the three most important are: 1) Heat and air conditioning; 2) Hot water; and 3) Lighting.

A quick look at the ways Airbnb and Uber are disrupting the structure of lodging and traveling. From the oversight perspective, these services are being scrutinized to determine whether they violate various safety, insurance, tax, pricing, and liability laws. The peer-to-peer (P2P) is already making major disruption in the industry by sharing of resources like sharing a car and/or a rented house.

This article describes with components of an MIS, specifically the physical ones. It explain what each component is used for and how they differ. I think this is important to understand first, to understand the purpose the hardware, software, database, personnel and procedures.

This article explains the importance of what a property management system should do. It is said that the PMS is the core of any hospitality company. The PMS gathers information about revenue, guests, staff, and any reporting necessary. Although the PMS is known to manage your company, it should also help with customer service and generate more revenue. I's important that todays PMS systems are available to all on their mobile devices, making it easier for guests. The PMS is also something that needs to be used for both front and back of the house functions, this includes house keeping and human resources. Lastly, this system should be compatible to all other forms of technology. I believe the PMS serves many functions to help ensure a company succeeds.

The article is about PMS acts as a centralized hub of vital information relating to revenue, guest engagement, staff efficiencies, and reporting.

Managing a successful hotel is not easy 一 Hoteliers are tasked with enhancing the guest experience, empowering their staff, and increasing their property's bottom line. It Should Be Mobile-First Modern travelers are going mobile, and mobility is «flattening» the hospitality marketplace. A mobile-first PMS can streamline various touchpoints in the guest journey, such as reducing long lines to the front desk. It Should Play Well With Others No technological platform is an island, and hotels cannot be run on a single siloed technological solution. It Should Optimize Revenue Traditionally, the role of the PMS was to help hoteliers manage their hotel's operational structure. However, today's PMS can do so much more than that.

According to 2020 Cybersecurity Trends to Watch, organizations that are attacked by ransomware are frequently impacted to a degree where operations may completely come to halt. Cytelligence has handled a significant number of cases where recovering from a ransomware attack is a very long process and getting data back and systems operational is only one step in the process. In addition, the increase in scammers presents a problem as there are several organizations making promises that cannot technically be true, but during the time of crisis, some of the structured decision-making processes are thrown out the window.These same decision-making processes are not structured to remove emotional decisions which are very prevalent during a ransomware event and may result in a decision that is not business focused and support sound economic outcomes. For example, if a company is suffering $100,000 in losses for every hour of being unable to operate, then a ransom demand of $200,000 which is equivalent to 2 hours of an outage should be considered in terms of costs and possible future business impact.

Despite women leading the way in scholarship and culinary education, they are suspiciously vacant at the top of the leadership ladder. According to Bloomberg, only about 7% of executive chefs are woman, and "67% of executive women are in support roles...as opposed to running their own line of business." This doesn't appear to be because of a lack of entrepreneurial spirt, as "405 of restaurants are women-owned businesses or WOB, and startups by women are growing much faster than the industry overall." This made me reflect on my own city, as I do see women in executive positions, such as Stephanie Izard, Sarah Grunenberg, and Mindy Segal, they all got to their positions in very different ways. Probably the most successful, with currently 7-8 restaurants, is Izard, she got her start by winning a reality tv show and then joining forces with two male business owners (BOKA). Grunenberg also started visa vi the reality TV route, and now eventually owns and runs a very successful restaurant downtown. Mindy Segal is the only woman executive in this group that has built her business, her cookbooks, her brand, and now her cannibis retail, mostly by herself. It is interesting to relate these women to this article because while they are all three incredibly successful, only one was able to pull herself there through the three points mentioned in this article. In order for women to break the glass ceiling in restaurants and culinary, they will need to accomplish three main goals: 1. Gain confidence, 2. Increase their aspirations, and 3. Learn and Maintain Financial literacy. The "grim reality (is) that 96% of WOB do not cross the $1 million in revenue...(and) fewer than 8% seek external financing. Women "receive less than 4% of Small Business Administration loan dollars and less than 2% of venture capital dollars. For confidence, this article recommends to women to learn how to advocate for yourself. Use coaches, practices public speaking, and learn how to pitch your business