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This article shows how hotels are using technology to improve their loss prevention and security systems. Hotels, like the ARIA in Las Vegas, are implementing radio frequency identification systems (RFID) to efficiently track their employees' uniforms. This specific hotel has the advantage that it is a new hotel and therefore can start with a blank slate, versus other hotels that will implement it as their budget allows. The RFID chips are sewn into the uniforms and then entered into the inventory system. This allows the hotel to monitor where and in whose hands the uniforms are. Other hotels, like the Arnold Palmer in Orlando, are using RFID for security. The RFID locking technology audits locks and tell the hotel when and who entered a room. In addition, sophisticated cameras with intelligent software are being used throughout different points of hotels' perimeters to safeguard guests. These sophisticated technological breakthroughs are only efficient if organized data management and communication processes are put in place. I think that the use of technology to better monitor theft and security is a great area for hotels to invest their money on. The use of cameras to detect alarming fast speeds of boats near hotels with ocean perimeters is not something that guests look for when deciding on hotels, but it is an added feature that adds value to the hotel in the long-run and one that can save lives.

This article talk about the IT in hospitality industry. They give a example of the India. The number of the India's travel and tourism industry is grow 8.4% in 2008 and will be 8% more increase between now and 2016 according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. The hospitality industry should know the customers needs and the goal of the meeting them should be figured out in such a way that the cost of offering the service(s) does not pinch the company balance sheet i.e. variable costs should not show fluctuations northwards. Marketing gurus would always adhere to one statement for advice: cost need to be justifiable through high probability of ROI. The selection of technology in itself is a vital step. Another global feature that is extremely important is a detailed guest, group and company records. Used with a variety of customized reports, these detailed records allow precise targeting of various marketing efforts to improve occupancy rates, increase yield and enhance strategic planning. Each module should have a customizable report selection menu. The reports should have provision for sorting and filtering of data to enable viewing of the exact information might be required at a moment's notice. A good PMS enables a hospitality enterprise to increase revenue and occupancy, improve guest loyalty and reduce costs by centralizing and streamlining your operations. Forward-thinking properties have already begun building a network infrastructure that offers the flexibility and scalability to adapt to the ever-evolving guest, staff, and property management needs. Ajay Goel, Senior VP - Industry Business, Strategy, Operations, Cisco Systems India & SAARC opined, "These next-generation infrastructures are based on a converged network. They integrate with today's solutions-such as reservation, surveillance, and billing systems-and support the newest applications and technologies. The goal is to take advantage of tomorrow's opportunities while protecting e

The JW Marriott Marquis Miami and Hotel Beaux Arts Miami are three Marriott hotel brands that have been combined as the setting to create a revolutionized guest experience experience with the use of technology throughout the property. Not just technology here and there, but rather technology as the primary provider of the experience. This is evidenced by the conference room amenities: Virtual Meetings by Marriott, mobile video concierge, world's largest video powered by Cisco, digital signage, and wireless IP phones for guest use (which allow guest to order room service, check the weather, special offers, etc.). The goal and vision of the property is to allow guests to experience the advantages of technology to interact with other guets, co-workers, and hotel employees, in hopes that they will enjoy new ways to communicate, as well as have more fun. The hotel has already experienced several benefits and other favourable results: a one-of-a-kind experience for guests, effective marketing of hotel services, operational efficiency from working with one vendor, and increased guest safety thanks to 70 surveillance cameras deployed throughout public areas of the property and monitored by Cisco, who will notify hotel personnel immediately of any emergencies.

This article was very interesting and it was about how safety security is very important to the hospitality industry. This article also explained how a study shows the safety and security systems work in the hospitality industry. They also said that it is very important to update the emergency plan because you never know when something going to happen in the hotel and you always have to be ready for anything. This study just showed how an effective information system could prevent and being well prepared can definitely help prevent any emergency.

The article is a study that was conducted in regards to the security management within a hotel and how an effective security system can help in preventing accidents or emergencies from occuring. The main priority of a hotel or any establishment, besides the service provided, is having an effective emergency plan set in place to be able to respond and overcome a crisis. International hospitality being a focus over the recent years, has suffered crises, risks, and disasters causing negative impacts on tourism and the community. Hotels should "issue a check-list concerning a hotel's vulnerability to emergencies caused by natural disasters (hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis) or man-made crises (terrorist attacks, explosions, fires, spill, food poisoning)." Another part of the plan is to focus on the loss prevention aspect of a hotel by implementing information technology to secure or improve security. On technology mentioned was biometric to increase the hotel information system and also to help reduce cost and improve the way we recognize criminal activities. With the hospitality industry being one of the most vulnerable industries to crimes and disasters, it is important to recognize, improve and update the plans set into place to ensure accurate information. While it's impossible to say that these preventions are going to stop these problems from happening, it can help other learn about the proper steps to handling these situations. I personally think that as much as employers suggest different way, it's the job of the loss prevention team in every industry to construct a plan that address as many issues and conduct trainings that would help to prepare us for these occasions. Trainings are going to be the best way to properly analyze a problem and improve on the emergency plan set.

The following article does a great job outlining different aspects of cyber security within the hospitality industry. Security is one of the main departments that need attention and an additional budget in order meet todays security requirements. After doing some research, it is clear to see that all employees must have the same focus in order to provide the best security for their guest. Hotel security can provide things like: facility protection and control, guest and visitor monitoring and assistance, security command center monitoring (cameras, alarms systems and surveillances), maintain emergency response plan, etc. "Security has a difficult job of enforcing the rules and regulations of the establishment while making the guest feel welcome." The article goes over different security systems and what differentiates them, I thought that it gave a lot of insightful information into various cyber security systems.

The cloud will provide the digital infrastructure for the cities of tomorrow, where an estimated 6 billion of the world's population will live by 2045. A commercial aviation cloud will help airlines. A utilities cloud will automatically repair faults in the power grid to ensure a smooth supply of power to homes and businesses. A banking cloud will scan thousands of transactions per second to prevent fraud. The cloud will help society cope with growing volumes of data. High definition video will account for 89% of individual user traffic by 2025, of which image and video content will be for non-entertainment purposes. The cloud will support the emerging artificial intelligence technologies which will be adapted to mobile use, notably the cell phones which overlook PC sales in 2011. Although driverless cars are still a ways off, it will be realized soon, thanks to the power of the cloud.

"The Motorola Solutions 2011 Hospitality Market Barometer reveals that 91 percent of hospitality decision makers realize the increasing importance of mobile and wireless technology, while 78 percent recognize the role mobility plays in ensuring a competitive advantage for their business. As a result, hospitality venues are investing in new technology, as well as powerful wireless networks to handle greater data volumes and increasing demands for high-speed access from the customer and mobile workforce. "

The article analyzed why hotels do investment to It in 2011. It concluded three main reasons, which are elevating the guest experience, empowering the mobile worker, and enabling operational efficiency. It's already 2013 now and things can become different. Hotels should invent carefully according to its specific necessary and customers' necessary.

Dear team! I found an article, very old but to me, very actual and interesting about how the Internet Technology is improving and progressing, and the investment bring benefits only. In 2011 , only 4 years ago, we can see that the companies were having a clear plan to improve the communication system. By introducing wireless, tablets, WLANs , to improve network reliability... Today we have it all on hands. We are using all the devices online , wireless and with no problem to access. No cords on the floor, no telegrams ... Internet technologies is a big progress in our century and is developing and growing, by leaving some of us behind. :)

This article serves as an advertisement of a POS system that is promoted as being "priced right" while simultaneously providing more. It lists functions and features of the system, including Driver's License Identification, Remote Control, Surveillance, etc.

Talks about different ways to prevent fraud in different areas of the restaurant.

This article mainly focused on ways restauranteurs can avoid theft. For employee theft, inventory management, complimentary control and a POS system that can track the whereabouts of the items are good ways to deal with it. For dine-and-dash, the restaurant will be safer if adding surveillance and using a single entrance. Also, using credit cards is a nice way. For credit card fraud, preferring to use a "smart card" technology will be a vital way.

This articles is an eye opener on how lightly we take hotel security. There are several new technologies designed to prevent security issues and we do not consider them, simply because they are too expensive and we feel a false sense of security since our country is not located in the middle east. The reality is that deep inside we all remember 911 and we see news every day of how much hate some people have againts us. Security should be taken much more seriously.

The many aspects of security at hotels boil down to policy and technology. The policy element includes emergency planning and the individual procedures implemented by a hotel. Technology now plays an integral role in the security mix, from badging and staffing communications to electronic keys and surveillance cameras. Hotels are attractive places for criminals to target travelers, who are inherently more vulnerable. Best bet: Always assess a hotel neighborhood and facilities with the same vigilance as at home or in other public spaces. Help your meeting attendees understand the policies and potential risks before they arrive. Security Questions for Hotels: Will trade-show exhibitors require secure storage for any display items? Are there areas near a hotel that attendees should be warned to avoid? Are hotel employees CPR certified? Is defibrillator equipment available onsite? Are there any policies and procedures organizers should be aware of in the event of an emergency?

As hoteliers, the development of hotel is very important. While, as the premise of development, the security is the first consideration whatever you work in the industry and also when guests stay in the hotel. As the development of society, hoteliers are constantly renew their new technology for the safety and security of property.     The security staff should have confidence to build a secure environment for employees and guests. But they often are challenged to the hilt to be professional in distinguishing between the real guest and con-men.     To the guests' point of view, before they choose the hotel, the security of the hotel is an important aspect the guest would require. The travelers also stay with confidence for their stay. So an important factor that should be seriously thought of is the web-site in which you market and sell your hotel.

Terrorism attacks on international hotels have turned the industry's focus on security issues. No doubt about it, both government and hospitality entrepreneur pay more attentions on security after September 11, 2001. It is important for hotels enhance security by using technology. Hotels use Vehicle Management System to tab all vehicles entering the property. This VMS also can be tagged with the guest information, drivers' information and vehicle number. Hotel should use the guest history modules to store the information about every guest especially for those 'first time guest'. The information includes the copy of passport detail of the international guests, guests' flight detail, an emergency contact number and copy of photo registration cards. The house keeping module makes report of Sleep-out guest. This system can share the occupancy reports and nationality wise occupancy report automatically with local police. Also the incoming call can be tracked. Hotel should have a stringent recruitment procedure in place. Hotel can use biometric access to restrict employees only allowed access their working place. The gate-pass system, vehicle management system and biometric access control system ensure only authorized staff and vehicles are allowed into the property. The online central passport and ID card verification mechanism can automatically verify the document against data available with the security agencies. The communication engine can send message to stuff, supervisors, in house guests and authorized external security bodies about the emergency like suspicious guest, fake passport and so on. Effective use these technology can save the hotels from the worse that can happened.

This article gives us some tips on how technology could help enhance security at hotels. By summary the article, we can find out that the technology can help enhance security at hotels in maintaining copy of passport or ID card of all guests, noting an emergency contact number always, storing data at an off-site location for easy access in case of mishap, installing a biometric access control system for in-house and supplier staff, scanning baggage and maintaining baggage count of each guest and cross-verify on check-out, and monitoring sleep-out guest report closely. By using these simple technology, hotels can save a lot, and make hotels secure.

The hospitality industry is hassled by the terror attacks at luxury properties, so it is important to use technology to protect the guests. A Vehicle Management System can be used to keep watch on all vehicles entering the property. The property management system is used from check-in to check out to verify the baggage and guests. A stringent recruitment such as biometric access can prevent unauthorized staff or guests step into the specific area. Also, there is an online central passport and ID card verification can verify the guests' identification and give an alert on a fake ID or passport. All these measures can help to prevent worst things from happening.

This article gives an overview of security considerations of a cruise liner. Initially it cites a comparison between cruise security concerns and that of a hotel, which are basically the same, such as secure doors to cabins (rooms), having an exact record of all passengers and onboard staff, as well as having surveillance such as cameras taking constant video recordings. Whereas hotels are mostly open to outside traffic, cruise ships are limited only to those who have purchased passage, are working there, or are conducting business onboard. This has led to boarding procedures which are as stringent and detailed as those conducted when passengers board a commercial airline. Safety concerns for cruise ships have been a forefront concern since the 1985 hijacking of the MS Achille Lauro (See next comment) which led to minimal security standards issued by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The tragic events of 9/11 compelled US issuance of an International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) to strengthen security protocols. This includes requirements that any "ship over 500 tons…not (be) allowed into the United States unless their last ports of call conformed to ISPS code." The ISPS code, however, involves minimal adjustment for cruise lines currently in compliance with IMO rules. Newer ships are being constructed to include the infrastructure for video fibre optics and metal detection equipment. State of the art equipment will have crew member's photo and data available to be checked with each swipe of their ID card. Biometric fingerprint detection equipment is another safety layer that is available, but is not currently in use, although it will certainly be put into place promptly if a major incident occurs. The odds of such a major incident are high when considering the volume of cruise passengers in the last decade. Since other commercial ships have witnessed attacks, cruise lines are strongly advised to progressively

Additional information regarding the 1985 MS Achillies Lauro hijacking: http://www.britannica.com/blogs/2010/10/remembering-the-achille-lauro-hijacking-picture-of-the-day/

This article is a demonstration that technology is so rapidly advancing that there are machines communicating with machines; M2M communications. This article also brings to light that even though we are not aware it's happening, it is crucial to operating a successful hospitality business. M2M communicating makes many job functions normally done by humans and automates them to eliminate human error. Also M2M communicating can sense and monitor things that a human may not be able to catch in time. M2M is used in guestroom automation, energy management, pos and video surveillance. This technology can automatically respond to certain situations without waiting for a human to rectify the malfunction.

This article describes how a Hyatt hotel in New Orleans has increased hotel and guest security while making it easier for guests to get where they need to go. The increased security is vital for this hotel as it provides meeting and event space to guests. A lot of people make business deals in the hotel and it's important to them to know there are no unwanted attendees at their meetings and events. This is great for guests as they only need to know what their hotel/conference room number is. The hotel basically leads them directly where they need to go. This saves hotel personnel time they might have to spend giving people directions to their room. This hotel is very large so helping guests get where they need to go saves lots of time and frustration. This can also be a great cost saving move for the hotel. They may be able to eliminate some security personnel knowing the RFID cards and elevator security system will do some of the work for them. A surveillance staff is still needed but they should already have those positions on staff anyway. They could perhaps also see some energy savings as the Schindler system should be calling the most efficient elevator car. One thing I'm wondering about that is not addressed in the article is the security of the stairwells. They surely have to have stairwells for emergency situations. Can someone go into the stairwell from their floor and access other floors?

The article shows how a unified computing and communication system helps a company implement a new technology. While the new technology system is worth a multimillion-dollar investment; the benefits have provided the company excellent financial results. It allowed the company to consolidate 18 room reservation and telephone operations into a single location. Another advantage from the update is the capability for Station Casinos to connect 15,000 different devices which include some of the newer slot machines that have been installed. The new technology reduces downtime; this is an advantage as downtime could lead to potential monetary loss. Finally, the update while costing millions of dollars, the financial return on the investment is tremendously impactful to the company.

This article speaks about a seemingly successful turn around for a struggling casino group in Las Vegas after making multimillion-dollar investments for I.T. over a period of time. While it has not completely eradicated all their problems, Stations Casinos Inc., which operates 18 hotels, and casinos off the Vegas Strip has saved tremendously by providing a cohesive communication computer system that has allowed greater efficiency ultimately saving money. An example of efficiency is cutting down data center server racks from 12 to one. More advantages showed with reduced cost due to less power and energy being used to maintain more infrastructures. An upgrade in network allowed for their slot machines and security cameras to connect across the board. This is important because, " about 80% of revenue comes from slot machines," said Baltz. These are just a few advantages the Stations Casinos Inc., has experienced since their investment. After reading this article, it just goes to show how important the I.T. department can be to the profitability of a hotel, casino or other hospitality entity. Usually we think of the product or service as the revenue generators of a business, but this type of article shows that, by saving money, the trickle down effect of increasing profits will occur when you cut expenses.

If there was ever any question that IT investment could drastically benefit companies, this scenario is the proof. A group of struggling Las Vegas Casinos really turned there negative situation around with the use of new interactive technology. This interactive technology is not only beneficial in the hotel world, but apparently casinos as well. The possibilities for this technology are endless, as long as it continues to advance. Guests and costumers who continue to be satisfied with their enhanced technological experience, will give companies and businesses large profits. Just as the casinos had a drastic turnaround by utilizing technology, other groups will do the same.

Security is obviously very important in hospitality and technological advancements are helping to make hotel stays easier and more secure. The hotel industry is exploring options to that replaces the standard plastic keycards with new entry methods. One example is using smartcards or RFIDs, which stands for radio frequency identification. Smartcards and RFIDs work like a fast-pass at a gas station when quickly paying at the pump. The guest simply waves the card/key in front of a sensor granting entry. The guest doesn't have to worry about the card being deactivated by his or her cell phone and the hotel doesn't have to constantly spend on replacements. Another example is technology that allows us to enter our hotel rooms using our using our phones. Guests would download an app, receive a text message with an encrypted sound code and play it by the door to be granted entry. Using biometrics for entry is likely the ultimate level of technological security. Like in the movies, guests would have their physical attributes scanned including eyes, and/or thumbprint to identify a guest. Video cameras will always be a great form of security. Now that they're getting smaller and more vivid, surveillance makes the phrase "Big Brother is watching" all the more relevant by being a huge crime and incident deterrent. Technology is advancing rapidly and I can see some of these methods hitting mass markets sooner than we think.

This article talks about the new technologies applied in the hotel to keep safety. The first one is Smart cards/RFID that helps to open the door via sensor receiving. The next one is smartphone, personal belongings that help to open the door with encrypted sound code. Biometrics also can help by identifying personal physical traits. For hotels, security cameras is necessity.