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dbonn009

Why Personalization Is the Future of Hotel E-Commerce – Skift - 2 views

skift.com/...the-future-of-hotel-e-commerce

shared by dbonn009 on 08 Sep 18 - No Cached
  • he hotel industry has an opportunity to transform the direct booking process using website personalization. Doing so can help deliver a more efficient and customized booking experience, resulting in better conversion ratios and the opportunity to further cultivate relationships with guests.
  • Personalization in the hotel industry has ceased to be a trend. Today, it’s an obligation.
  • Back in 2015, American Express Travel reported that 83 percent of millennials would allow brands to track their habits in exchange for a more customized experience
  • ...16 more annotations...
  • And earlier this year,
  • Deloitte Consulting published the white paper
  • noted that “–truly knowing your guests –what they have told you, what they request, what you have learned, and what should be implied –should yield larger results.”
  • using new technology-driven tools to help them streamline the booking process and create a more seamless guest experience.
  • When potential guests are shopping on a hotel’s website, there’s a clear opportunity before a booking is made for properties to demonstrate the acute attention they’ve paid to individual guests’ preferences. This is accomplished by using website personalization technology, allowing hotels to automatically and intuitively suggest particular room categories, package types, and even rates tailored to each user’s expectations.
  • he results of these improved personalization efforts are numerous, including higher booking probability, increased user satisfaction, and a greater likelihood of repeat visits to the website, leading to better brand loyalty. Taking these steps can even offer hotels a further tool to take more control of their distribution decisions, rebalancing their e-commerce strategies between direct and non-direct channels.
  • Building Loyalty is an Investment
  • over-relying on OTAs for cash customers hurts profitability.
  • Today’s personalization technology can also help hotels to optimize the conversion rates for direct bookings.
  • If this analysis shows that more users are bouncing from the site instead of booking, it may be time to consider new tools.
  • “When users leave a hotel’s website, they’re likely to have forgotten the details after visiting multiple other hotel-related sites,” he noted. As Upneja believes, personalization tools are one method to prevent this. “Appeal to them on the spot with personalized offerings like the right price, the right room category and the right amenities before they can move on.”
  • Personalization tech is increasingly an essential tool to rethink online bookings. But in order for it to succeed, there needs to be alignment between the personalization of the booking experience and the hotel’s curation of more traditional on-site amenities like service and design.
  • That site is available on both desktop and mobile, and in English and Spanish, the primary languages spoken by the hotel’s two main markets.
  • Using IP addresses also enables the Viceroy Los Cabos to personalize resort packages to users in locales suffering from bad weather.
  • “Ideally we want to sense that behavior and adapt the site for them, showing them customer reviews, social media posts, food and beverage photography – things that we know will be a strong call to action for the customer to continue through to making that reservation.”
  • Today’s hotelier recognizes the value that personalization has on the guest experience. The more guests feel that every aspect of their experience was tailored exactly for them, the greater the likelihood that they will spend more on property and return again and again.But in today’s competitive market, truly savvy hotel executives realize that it is no longer enough to only customize during the guest stay. Personalization needs to extend to the booking process, where the right tools give hotels the means to increase conversions, build better loyalty and customize content in order to deliver more direct bookings.
  • miamigol on 08 Sep 18
     
    On my previous article about Oraculo, the world's first predictive algorithm for hotels, I described how personalization in hospitality is no longer a trend but an obligation. By posting this new article I wanted to dig a little deeper into tailoring guests needs through e-commerce. In 2015, American Express Travel reported that 83% of millennials would not object to have their habits tracked if they get a more customized experience. This strong message has prompted the hotel industry to develop and implement website personalization technology that suggests, intuitively, specific room categories or packages to online lookers. Since building loyalty is an investment, improving the direct booking ratio is now the main goal of the industry. From experience, when I travel I try to stay at the same hotel and book directly from the hotel website. The most important thing to me when I shop around is furniture and bathroom. Although these are not generally specified in detail in room descriptions, the brand I'm loyal to is usually very consistent with my needs. If new technology would give me a more personalized stay somewhere else I would definitely change my membership. I have friends who don't travel much except for vacation and long weekends. They are lookers who go to online travel agencies (OTA's) and bounce from site to site trying to find the perfect place. The article explains this newer technology will be crucial to prevent lookers from bouncing to other websites, and encourage them to book directly from the hotel and avoid OTA's. The idea is to make it so personalized that it will be appealing on the spot. These new technologies not only can tailor room types and resort packages based on IP addresses, but it can customize your TV programming based on your web history. Personalizing the guest experience during the stay is no longer enough. Data shows that in order to build loyalty and make the customer return, personalization has to begin in the booking pr
  • kayshap96 on 16 Sep 18
     
    This article describes how personalization of eCommerce can bring better profits, because it is helping guests personalize how they would like their stay. This is more efficient for the guests because it is ensure they get what they want, like if they want to be around certain theme parks, or if they want their rooms a certain way. They even have options where you can fit guests language barriers, like if they speak only spanish they can change the language so spanish speakers can also ensure they have their preferred stay.
  • dbonn009 on 28 Jan 19
     
    This article explains the importance of website personalization. Here, vital information is stored for current and future use of consumers. It is important for industry professionals to have access to this information but protect it from reaching outside entities.
ghoafat

The Albion Hotel Miami Beach Leaves PBX Behind for Cloud-Based Virtual Communications, ... - 1 views

hospitalitytech.com/munications-business-analytics

shared by ghoafat on 25 May 20 - No Cached
  • Despite the wide variety of excellent features and services the hotel was able to offer guests on property, The Albion Hotel Miami Beach suspected it was losing some telephone reservation business due to the poor quality of its phone service.
  • Staff members at The Albion Hotel Miami Beach worked daily with a 15-year-old analog PBX that was both inflexible and expensive to support.
  • In a fortunate turn of events, Ray Pasquale, CEO of Unified Office, became a regular guest at the hotel.
  • ...8 more annotations...
  • e never thought that a business communications system could help improve our overall operations, but this one did,”
  • The hotel implemented Unified Office’s Total Connect Now℠ (TCN℠), a managed business communications service that integrates voice and video communications, messaging, service-level monitoring, business continuity, and business analytics tools into a seamless, high quality, and reliable communications service.
  • The service also provides hotel staff with real-time performance analytics and the latest in work-flow choreography as well as automated notifications for reservations and scheduling.
  • This flexibility means a human is always available to speak with new and returning customers. Hotel staff can also easily manage and configure every aspect of the service remotely via Unified Office’s TCN℠ Operational Management Suite™ (TCNOMS™) web-enabled portal from any device.
  • change the messages played to customers while they are on hold, and they can change their own voicemail and text messages themselves whenever they want.
  • nified Office’s call choreography feature will send incoming calls from customers to a pre-defined group of people in a certain dept
  • If the first person who receives the call is unavailable, others will be able to answer the call wherever they are, on any device, even if they are out of the office.
  • Unified Office’s HQRP™ platform solves the quality and reliability problems inherent with cloud-based VoIP/UC offerings. HQRP™eliminates the need for costly dedicated phone circuits such as T1 access lines, MPLS tunnels and other expensive legacy techniques that are typically used to try to create quality and reliability.
  • ghoafat on 25 May 20
     
    This article is about The Albion Hotel in Miami Beach. It talks about how they were losing business due to their outdated PBX (Private Branch Exchange) phone system. It was not reliable. They switched to a cloud based system called TCN (Total Connect Now). They are now, not only saving money, but they are able to work from anywhere at any time. This shows the benefits of cloud computing!
  • keoctave on 29 May 20
     
    In the hotel world, as technology is ever evolving and change it is most times necessary to keep up with change. This hotel was at least 20 years old in the business what worked back then to five years ago even one year ago may not work today. Granted not all hotels need to be tech savvy but if that's the majority of their clientele due to their location they may want to keep up to date to ensure that they are meeting their customers needs.
dstro007

Some 15 million online bookings are scams by rogue websites - 0 views

www.traveldailynews.com/...ome-15-million-online-bookings

scams rogue websites online hotel bookings security issues hospitality technology

shared by dstro007 on 03 Oct 15 - No Cached
  • When it comes to booking a hotel, it pays to go straight to the source. A new study conducted by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) reveals that one in three people are worried about online booking scams, which affect millions of unsuspecting consumers.
  • Early estimates suggested that some 2.5 million hotel bookings a year were affected by deceptive practices through rogue third-party online travel agency (OTA) affiliates who pose as direct hotel booking sites.
  • six percent of consumers who have booked hotels online had the experience of thinking they were booking directly with a hotel, but found out instead that they were booking with an online hotel booking site posing as the direct site
  • ...13 more annotations...
  • translates to some 15 million hotel bookings that have been affected
  • translates to more than $1.3 billion in money going to bad bookings, meaning consumers are not getting what they want and need, not to mention suffering inconveniences, lost room charges, and cancellation and booking fees
  • Another 20 percent of respondents who have booked hotels online reported that they were “not sure” if they had also been scammed.
  • This concern was raised by the Federal Trade Commission
  • These practices also damage hotel reputations and reduce consumer confidence in the online booking process.
  • 14 percent could not get a refund for a cancellation
  • 17 percent were charged unexpected or hidden fees
  • 15 percent did not get their rewards points
  • 14 percent were charged an extra booking fee
  • 32 percent got a room that was different than what was expected
  • Nine percent had reservations lost or cancelled
  • Three percent had their identity or private information stolen
  • The study confirmed that, in order for travelers to be certain they are getting what they want and need, without the frustration and worry, most feel it is better to book directly with the hotel. A majority of those who have booked a hotel online say that they prefer dealing directly with the hotel (56%).
  • dstro007 on 03 Oct 15
     
    So, for the consumers that are used to booking their vacations by themselves, I don't think this article applies to you. For the ones that are trying to save money by not going through a travel agent, I think thesis the article for you. A study conducted by AH&LA shows early signs that almost 2.5 million bookings for hotel properties made online through "fake websites" are being accounted for. This is a huge security issue. Consumers are booking their travel thinking that they are getting certain room types, ample amenities, amazing discounts, and good deals, but turns out they are just getting scammed. Other then not making the clients happy, this also hurts the reputation of the hotel property because when things don't go our way or something happens, we tend to blame the property. And in today's society, most take to the internet to voice their opinions in addition to speaking with the hotel; and bad word-of-mouth is the last thing our industry needs. Also, this can lead to loss of revenue. The survey stated that 56% of customers prefer to book directly with the hotel. It is always recommended to book directly through the property themselves, but for the new guys, how are they supposed to differentiate the difference between real and fake websites? 
shoss003

Speedy Check-In Lets Hotel Guests Bypass Front Desk - 1 views

www.nytimes.com/...-guests-bypass-front-desk.html

shared by shoss003 on 29 Aug 13 - No Cached
  • The hospitality industry is moving toward more automated check-in systems
  • “Customers are used to A.T.M.’s at the bank instead of tellers, checking in for airplane flights online, and they are now looking for that same efficiency when they arrive at a hotel,” Mr. Craig said. “No one wants to wait in line for the front desk anymore.”
  • an upset customer posting to Twitter, Facebook or TripAdvisor can easily share bad impressions with a wide group of people.
  • ...8 more annotations...
  • automated check-in was also a plus for hoteliers who wanted to assign additional duties to the front desk staff. “When a guest checks in late at night and the same employee can make sure the check-in goes smoothly and also sell them something to eat,” he said, “the hotel has saved money on staffing, increased its revenue and increased customer satisfaction.”
  • The different check-in methods are meant to provide options for guests, not to supplant any,
  • “Leisure guests here for shopping, dining and culture may want the opportunity to talk with our front desk associates to get some quick recommendations, versus a person here on business who may prefer to check in though the Web or self-check-in kiosk,
  • welcoming, like coming to a friend’s house
  • remove the physical barriers between the guests and the staff
  • hides the technology but uses it to prepare for and personalize each check-in.
  • orientation takes place at the same time as check-in
  • “There’s a lot of preplanning, technology and communications going on behind the scenes, but humans are the most important part of hospitality, so we keep the technology parts hidden
  • Ashlee Livingston on 29 Aug 13
     
    This article is giving the reader a look into the new check in procedures being implemented by hotels across the world. This "speedy check-in" allows for guests to by pass the traditional front desk check in and instead opt for check in via kiosks located in the lobby or even checking in before arrival. The automatic check in trend began as a way to relieve guests from having to wait in long lines when arriving at their hotel to check in . The option for speaking with front desk associates is still there but would rather serve as more of concierge, with suggestions on restaurants and questions regarding any leisure activities within the city or hotel itself. Some hotels are also taking the approach of personal greeters who approach the guest upon arrival, making the check in process more like a welcoming into a friends home. Overall I love the idea of being able to bypass hotel lines, especially during holidays when lines tend to get quite long or when arriving to a hotel fairly late in the night. Being able to arrive and head straight to the room allows for smoother check-ins and more efficient use of front desk associates. The personal greeters also provide more of an at home feeling. Guests can feel like they are personally being cared for as opposed to just being another occupied room. 
  • shoss003 on 02 Sep 14
     
    As we move into a technology focused society hotel needs to follow the trend of what travelers want and how to streamline using technology. This article describes how hotels are implimating kiosk in their lobbies to offer their guest a quick and easy way to check-in without having to make the line at the front desk. The hotels goal is to leave the "hotel embassador" and/or front desk for guests that have special requests or questions about their stay. They reference a hotel in Boston that has taken the electronic checkin a step further. They email the guests prior to arriving at the hotel two codes. The first code is to be used at the front door to enter the hotel, and the second code to enter into their hotel room keypad. They interviewed President and General Manager of NCR Corporation's travel business about these types of services. He stated that they offer travelers the same speed and quick services as ATM machines at banks or kiosks at the airport for quick checkin. He went on to say that they expect that type of service when traveling. Mr. Craig even touched on how a travelers feedback is even more important due to social media. One bad review can affect the hotel instantly after they tweet, post, etc. In the article they also interviewed Glenn Haussman, editor of the online trade magazine Hotel Interactive. He stated that with the use of the kiosk and express check-in the front desk staff can offer a more personal experience by doing other tasks. For example they mentioned a late check guest might want a snack or something to relax after a tough flight. By the staff not needing to check them in can go get the guest a coffee, or something to eat; this making the experience feeling more personal. The article states the Hyatt chain has implemented their kiosk in almost all their properties in major cities. They still offer a more traditional check-in as well. They went on to say some chains are using greeters with ipads to check guests in as they ente
cleon087

How technology is transforming hotel point-of-sale systems | Hotel Management - 3 views

www.hotelmanagement.net/...how-technology-changing-pos

hospitality pos

shared by cleon087 on 20 Jun 18 - No Cached
  • Technology has transformed point of sale into point of experience
  • elf-ordering via their smartphone by the pool or wherever they happen to be and increased guest satisfaction with guest payment
  • Because the staff members have appropriate intelligence readily in their hands, personalization can happen
  • ...21 more annotations...
  • easy to summon service in “non-F&B” areas
  • The card data is processed only by the payment gateway to/from the acquiring bank and only the final transaction approval code is passed to the POS, without the card data
  • The hotel F&B space continues to show growth, with overall consumer spending increasing 4.9 percent in 2017 and showing a robust 5.5-percent annual growth since 2011
  • associated mobile apps have the potential to increase top-line [food-and-beverage] sales in hotels by 5 [percent] to 10 percent without significant costs
  • hotel food-and-beverage revenue per occupied room increased 1.6 percent during 2017. F&B RevPOR reached $105.56, up from $103.93 in 2016, according to STR.
  • POS vendors have moved away from storing card data on their application and network. Many vendors no longer pass through or process any card data on their POS systems. Rather, they link and integrate to certified payment gateways. Payment devices are encrypted and secured, and client card data is always encrypted and totally separated from the POS terminal.
  • Technology is allowing for an extreme and pronounced change in point-of-sale systems
  • Mobile POS provides several benefits for hotels and guests alike. With mobile POS, the speed of service is dramatically increased because the staff can bring mobile ordering directly to guests, anywhere on property
  • POS technology has been a great partner in these efforts by making POS systems easier than ever to use, and mobility plays a role in impacting the increase in consumer spending, Wisell said
  • Call-for-service technology, deployed tableside and in under-serviced areas such as lobbies, coupled with mobile ordering apps, offer hotels an opportunity to increase sales
  • Mobile POS also lays the groundwork for future integration with artificial intelligence or customer-relationship-management systems.
  • “Hotels can spend millions of dollars on a remodel but if they don’t have the right point of experience, it can still result in a one- or two-star rating,” he said.
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 27 Jun 20
       
      This shows that importance of POS, and how it can transform a business for the good or bad.
  • Mobile is now
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 27 Jun 20
       
      People are starting to expect this, they even want more of a variety of different ways to pay that can be determining if you get business or not.
  • Hinojosa said
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 27 Jun 20
       
      Were always looking for a way to make the experience more personalized and this is one way.
  • with
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 27 Jun 20
       
      When guest get their food quicker and accurately this helps the experience and revenue.
  • they are the face of the property
  • u recognize them and are honored they are here with you again.”
  • “Whenever a guest is seated in the lobby and wants a take-away coffee, they can order one and not only when a staff member notices the guest in a restaurant,
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 27 Jun 20
       
      This is really good because it is hard as a front desk agent to give attention to the guest since the moment they step in but with this they can request their snack or drink that they want.
  • While there is interest in the potential of AI and chatbots for roomservice and self-service ordering, these are not yet ready for a widespread rollout at this time, Wisell said.  
  • “Data scientists can be used in the back of the house on the kitchen side, too—optimizing the production line,” he said. “Looking at the analytics behind the performance will reduce the wait times in the front of the house.”
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 27 Jun 20
       
      This will optimize performance
  • hotels don’t want to cross the line into creepy.
  • anonymous on 20 Jun 18
     
    Mobile POS has boosted F&B growth due to the ability to complete sales much faster and from non-F&B serviced areas of the property. The mobility contributes greatly to the increase in customer spending. With this mobility, companies must ensure compliance with PCI standards, and ensure that no credit card information is stored directly on the POS terminal. The article also touches on the subject of tokenization, and the usage of technology to secure a "token" rather than actual card data aids in reducing security risks.
  • ...4 more comments...
  • aycasa on 25 Jun 18
     
    This article was about how technology has had a great influence on point of sale systems within the hospitality industry. According to a senior director of product manager at Agilysys, Mike Hinojosa, he states that technology has transformed point of sale into point of experience. I personally agree with this because lately I expect hotels to have the latest in technology when it comes to POS and when I encounter a poor POS I automatically think they lack in providing the best for their guests. This article talks a lot about how mobile POS provide benefits for both parties and how it has increased guest satisfaction. "With mobile POS, the speed of service is dramatically increased because the staff can bring mobile ordering directly to guests, anywhere on property." According to this article, POS systems help boost F&B spending growth and they have become more secure throughout the years. "The hotel F&B space continues to show growth, with overall consumer spending increasing 4.9 percent in 2017 and showing a robust 5.5-percent annual growth since 2011, according to Technomic". It's said that mobile POS has helped F&B growth because it gives users the ability to into quicker sales and in different areas throughout the properties. For example, a waiter walking around a pool taking orders instead of having the guests walk to the poolside bar to place an order. Collecting payment has also become safer and easier with POS systems because of the PCI standards.
  • chinneegyyal on 02 Oct 18
     
    Technology is allowing for an extreme and pronounced change in point-of-sale systems. The speed of service for the guest in a hotel has dramatically went up because of point of scale systems. It is more convenient and quicker for guests to get things or to order things.
  • zxu009 on 24 Apr 19
     
    This article is about the employment of technology in the hospitality industry.
  • anonymous on 03 Jun 19
     
    This article is about how technology is transforming the POS experience by providing a more advanced security solution and a mobile platform. The article highlights how this new technology supports both the client and staff experience. The technology also provides a financial benefit in increasing sales by 5% and reducing cost by 10%.
  • jeanique13 on 19 Jun 20
     
    POS Technology has developed majorly over the past years. Growing developing offering mobile devices that can help workers pace themselves and generate more sales. These programs also offer extra data security to protect the clients information against fraud. This device is perfect for sport arenas, bar, golf course and more open outdoor and large venues that cater to voluminous crowds.
  • cleon087 on 27 Jun 20
     
    This article is about the benefits of technology in POS systems. It shows how the technology can personalize the experience of the guest by having them be able to order from the moment they step into the lobby. The article also discusses how all the technology is good but in the hospitality we are walking on a fine line that we don't want to cross to creepy with biometrics. Technology offers efficiency in speed and will give a better experience. Not only this but it talks about how POS is becoming more secure, and how people want to pay in different ways.
diana morales

Evolution In Travel Agent Industry | PRLog - 1 views

www.prlog.org/-in-travel-agent-industry.html

rise evolution agent industry travel demand sales increases

shared by diana morales on 29 Jul 12 - No Cached
  • The travel industry is growing 23% faster than the world economy and will continue historical growth for the next 18 to 20 years.
  • Years ago, when you wanted to go on vacation, there was only one option. You had to hoof it down to your local travel agency and browse through some travel brochures.
  • Then, a few things happened. First, the airlines decided they didn’t need travel agents anymore and they pulled the plug on agent commissions
  • ...6 more annotations...
  • Then, the second thing happened. The advent of the internet connection changed the face of travel forever. Information is readily available 24 hours a day about any aspect of travel you can imagine - from luxury yacht trips in the South Pacific to staying at a youth hostel in Europe
  • In the wake of the home-based business revolution, many travel agents have moved their businesses to their homes.
  • The travel industry is growing 23% faster than the world economy and will continue historical growth for the next 18 to 20 years.
  • First, the airlines decided they didn’t need travel agents anymore and they pulled the plug on agent commissions .
  • Then, the second thing happened. The advent of the internet connection changed the face of travel forever
  • Now, there is so much information available to consumers, they’re often left floundering in the sea of travel offers. Travel agents are skilled at cutting through the hype and emotion-driven marketing of suppliers. They have learned how to match travelers with vacations they will treasure.
  • Casrine Kelly on 29 Jul 12
     
    The travel industry has evolved over the past years. In the article it talks about how travel was limited in years gone by and you had to physically sit in a travel agent office in order to book your vacation. They were the only one who had all the information about travel. Then came the evolution of the travel industry and now everybody can book their vacation online with or without the help of a travel agent.
  • diana morales on 31 Jul 12
     
    The article here explains the evolution of how we used Travel Agents back in the day and how we got to a point where we no longer needed travel agents. Back in the old days if anyone wanted to fly to another country or state, we went thru travel agents so we can get a booked flight and car services etc. Now we do everything ourselves. We find out information on our own and book and print our own tickets. Why? because of the internet. The internet will teach you anything and will give you whatever you are looking for. According to the article , people are overwhelmed in all the information provided by the internet that they cant decided where they want to go or where they want to stay at. So business is coming to travel agents. We feel so busy now and days that we give all the work to someone to do everything for us.
xsun015

The Future of Hotel Security - AOL Travel Ideas - 0 views

news.travel.aol.com/...the-future-of-hotel-security

shared by xsun015 on 30 Oct 12 - No Cached
  • 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;}
  • The new thing is contact-less Smartcards and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) cards that need just be waved to allow room access.
  • But travelers worried they will constantly have to traipse back to reception every time they lose their card need not despair. Security systems in some hotels do away with cards altogether.
  • ...8 more annotations...
  • "I think that you will begin to see more hotels going to RFID and smartphone entry before using biosystem recognition," says Wolfe. "These systems are expensive, and there are many consumers who just don't want this information stored somewhere -- for a variety of reasons."
  • Systems that track the other qualities that make each human unique are in development as well.
  • Yet more card-free security systems are on the way.
  • 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. With 700 employees and an annual $16 million payroll, the system offers benefits such as employee time-theft monitoring and prevention for the hotel. But travelers aren't that concerned about employees taking an extra cigarette break. What it means for you is that the system includes alerts if unwanted people are on the property and a response time of mere seconds if there's an incident. Customer service is heightened as well: Returning guests will be recognized and greeted by name. And with 1,200 rooms worth of luggage in transit, the system makes it a lot easier to find lost or misdirected bags.
  • not everyone wants to be on-camera, all the time. With concerns about "snooping" and a Truman Show-like lack of privacy, might guests feel that systems such as this are too intrusive in our hotels? "
  • Technology is opening new doors to hotel safety, and the way 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. The new thing is contact-less Smartcards and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) cards that need just be waved to allow room access. Much 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. Travelers may even be able to save preferences on the cards, from pillow type to floor choice. RFID cards are already in use at New York's Plaza Hotel, and Starwood Hotels are considering introducing them into their hip Aloft and Element properties. But travelers worried they will constantly have to traipse back to reception every time they lose their card need not despair. Security systems in some hotels do away with cards altogether. "In addition to Radio Frequency Identification, there are also systems that use a smartphone, such as an iPhone," says Frank Wolfe, CEO of Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals. "When a guest checks into a hotel and provides their phone number, they get an encrypted sound code via text message." You can then play back the code to unlock your room door.
  • Systems that track the other qualities that make each human unique are in development as well. Movement-activated video-capture systems were showcased in New Zealand in September 2010. Researchers are at work on devices capable of recognizing an individual's gait or walk and even their DNA. Frank Wolfe says, "If you want to go 'way out there', there 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," says Wolfe. Quite common in Japan, vascular-recognition systems such as this are still "several years off," according to Wolfe. "I think that you will begin to see more hotels going to RFID and smartphone entry before using biosystem recognition," says Wolfe. "These systems are expensive, and there are many consumers who just don't want this information stored somewhere -- for a variety of reasons."
    • xsun015
      xsun015 on 29 Sep 14
       
      Nowadays, more and more hotels pay attention to IT security. They use high technology security equipment to protect the security of hotel and customers. These equipments will record every details about the hotel and customers. One one hand, this is a way to protect the security of the hotel. But they forget to care about the customers' feeling. Not all customers like it. Some customers want to protect their privacy. So I think that hotel needs to  consider the boundary about the hotel security. Keep the benefit and privacy for the customer. Then compare all the security devices, which is the best.
  • Yuri Kim on 30 Oct 12
     
    This article is about the advanced hotel security achieved through improved technology. Today's hotels tend to integrate the existing technology with high-tech methods, such as iris scanners and digital facial-recognition, to increase security. There are newly introduced contact-less Smartcards and RFID cards. These cards enable people not only to pay for service but also check-in and check-out on a cruise ship. Thus, there is double security system that uses their Smartphone to unlock the door in addition to RFID cards. Even, card-free security systems like finger print entry system and an iris scanner are in progress. These systems are developed for providing guests as well as increasing their property security by identifying employees. Moreover, a camera system that verifies individual's identity through tracking the human unique characteristics like a gait, walk, and DNA is being developed. However, any novelty and valuable technology is useless, if the consumers do not accept. Therefore, considering guest's unwillingness, hotels are going to employ RFID or Smartphone entry system first, not biometric systems. Lastly, the low tech, such as hotel staffs who get in-depth training and awareness of guests and staff and your fellow travelers who are interdependent on one another, is one of the greatest security measures in addition to biometric and high-tech method ironically.
  • ...3 more comments...
  • Yichen Yang on 31 Oct 12
     
    The hotel security will be raised to a new and next level with s lot of new technology. The plastic key will be innovated to smartcard with RFID. By usting the smartcard, the customer can stay easier by using it to check in or check out, also to choose the type of the pillow. Also, without the smartcard, the smartphone also can be that role and will become more popular and more easier. The card free security systems are on the way. The fingerprint may be used to enter the room. The Houston's largest hotel has a facial recognition that can identify and track guests and employees. This system will improve the security and the business. However, not everyone wants to be on camera, it sometimes depends on the background of the customers. New security measures will become such a part of our daily life that they will become the norm. One of the greatest security measures of late is actually low tech.
  • Mariana Sales de Jesus on 03 Nov 12
     
    The article highlighted reports the advancements in technology in the hospitality industry. These technologies are presented as security features as well. The highlights are about RFID cards, biometrics, hand scanners, iris scanners, facial recognition and even veins scanners. RFID cards is presented also as a security feature, however, it may give margin to a lot of fraud. Facial recognition systems are presented with a lot of emphasis and could be a great security feature if monitored for unwanted people. Some hotels have introduced iris scanners for special rooms such as presidential suites. Biometrics are being installed in hotels where your key card or credit card is replaced by your fingerprint. In order to add security, these hotels have added a password after fingerprints are placed on the reader. This extra security step will change consumer's perspective and maybe increase acceptance. The author also mentions that customers may not accept intrusive methods. The facial recognition seems to be a great advancement in hotel security; however, customer may feel uncomfortable to know that they are being recorded on cameras at all times. It is also mentioned that this may be a cultural issue. London was mentioned because it is very common to find security cameras in public areas and street in London . The main message transmitted is that no matter which one but technology and security will be taken to next level in the next few years. Security will have to move along with technology to avoid the downfalls of technology. It shouldn't hindrance the guests' security.
  • Mikaela Vourtsis on 18 Mar 13
     
    It's amazing how technology can aid in hotel security and this article describes just that. The future will be bright with all the new and innovative security opportunities for the hospitality industry. The main points of security mentioned in this article include the finger print entry system where they would have a touch screen where a guest would put their finger and that's how they would get in their room, saying goodbye to key cards. There is also a system that can track a person such as a movement activated video capture, where it can actually recognize an individual. Another security system that is coming into development can identify guests, employees, and suitcases. For instance, if a suitcase was lost or misplaced the system makes it easier to find the lost bags.
  • yiran DING on 19 Mar 13
     
    The uniqueness of human has been used for security tech in many ways, such as finger print, movement pattern, blood veins etc. And facial recoginition system is used by Hilton Americas-Houston now. It can be used to track guests, employees and even suitcases. However some customer feel unconfortable for the survillance everywhere and don't want to be on-camera all the time.
  • Yawen Zheng on 22 Mar 13
     
    The article described the future of hotel security systems. The security level is more and more important in hotel, for customer when they travel to a unacquainted place they need a safe hotel to guarantee them safety. Not only the security systems but also the details in everywhere the hotel management team must be pay more attention.
areut002

5 Advantages to Taking Your Event Registration Online | Active Network - 0 views

www.activenetwork.com.au/...-event-registration-online.htm

Hospitality software

shared by areut002 on 08 Jul 17 - No Cached
  • increasingly competitive
  • While the growing trend is to take all aspects of event management online with event registration software, many event organizers are still wary that that their participants will be scared away at the thought of submitting their data online.
  • Quick and easy registration for the participant.
  • ...11 more annotations...
  • can take days or even weeks
  • Automatic confirmation emails.
  • same look and feel as your site so that the registrant feels like he has never left the website
  •   Online data submission is secure
  • peace of mind and also reduce the administrative work required
  • you should inquire about their security standards and the safeguards they have put in place to guarantee that your participant's data is held in a secure environment.
  • Real-time reports.
  • until the very last days of the registration period.
  • data flow into the database in real-time.
  • Using less paper is good for the environment.
  • "Green Event"
  • areut002 on 08 Jul 17
     
    This brief article highlights 5 major points of the advantages of taking event registration online since there is still a lot of conern with doing so. First and foremost, peoeple love things being easy and hassle free, and with the inevdible techonolgy that is always around, it is jsut that easy. On top of that, confimation emails will be sent out within 24 hours, usually right after booking, to ease peoples minds that they are in. They get to plan out their event and get orginized in their minds and in real life. A big worry is how secure is this? It is benificial to do your reseach on where you are booking to ensure they are legit and have precautions to make information is safe. Additonally, real time reports allows for the event to understand who is going, deomgrphics, and the amount of people going. Lastly, a growing trend is going green, by doing this they can say they are a green event, if they take other measures, for eliminating paper applications.
kteme001

I.T and E Commerce of Hospitality Industry - The WritePass Journal : The WritePass Journal - 0 views

writepass.com/...mmerce-of-hospitality-industry

E commerce IT Marriott Travelbot technology software

shared by kteme001 on 28 Jan 18 - No Cached
  • There is a great demand for information from customers and hospitality service provider so hotel industry stared adopting computer based IT facilities to enhance its operational efficiency, control and reduce costs, and improve service quality
  • A new Internet-based procurement system which is considered flexible and user friendly has been implemented by IHG group. 
  • Problems with Micros 1)       When the systems crashes down then the checks has to be manually posted which is like duplication of work and time, there are even discrepancies sometimes and in that the company loses the revenue. 2)      If there is a crash, it needs to be done by the help of a main server computer. But if the problem prevails there is a need to contact the vendor for his service. 3)      The micros system sometimes get frozen which affect the overall performance of the server and the team.
  • ...9 more annotations...
  • One of the key elements of this research involves the “user friendliness” of the system.
  • Technologies used at Marriott Hotel Company website Point Of Sale-Micros Property Management System-Opera Central Reservation System-Marsha SAP for accounting and Payroll Fire Panel Door locks CCTV Blue Cube -Time Clock (Employee attendance) Cetral Reservation System
  • Professionals want the latest technology at their fingertips, from fax machines to Internet services
  • The new system has enabled the IHG group for excellent quality control.  In this respect, IHG claims that they are able to obtain high quality products at low costs via the Internet.
  • Marriott’s early commitment to high-performance processing, scalable storage and business continuity made the transition to an integrated reservations/Web solution error-free.
  • Now is the time for hospitality companies to take advantage of the opportunities available in creating a new value added customized online travel shopping experience for customers.
  • This travel bot will create a custom experience that suits the particular customer needs offering a range of services including hotel rooms, restaurant tables, airline seats, and rental cars.
  • However, there is still much room for improvement in speed, reliability, and adaptation to new technologies
  • If data is managed properly, the technology can assist hoteliers and restaurateurs in projecting the lifetime value of guests, creating increased loyalty, resulting in an increase in market share. 
  • kteme001 on 28 Jan 18
     
    This article helps us to better understand the information systems being utilized, why they are important and what difficulties they bring about. In the Hospitality Industry, customer service is put at the top of the list of must haves. With customer service comes knowing information about your customer and without Information Technology services put in place, these expectations will never be met. Having a computer based IT is crucial because it allows the employees to work more proficiently which in turn creates a better experience for the guest. Multiple hospitality leaders have been applying fully Internet based technological systems within their organizations. IHG group has implemented an easy to use system so it is simple for every position within the hotel. For a company like IHG with over 500 hotels, it was imperative they eliminated the manual system to provide better quality control. Because of this system they can get better quality products at lower costs. Although this new system is much more user friendly, the overall cost involved is still not confirmed but this system is still predicted to have positive impacts long term. For example at Marriott Hotels, they use a company website, POS Micros, Property Management System and Central reservation system just to name a few. On top of stellar service and quick/ easy information submissions, guests are looking to have the best technology at their disposal to use. Things like computers with full internet access, printers and fax machines to make sure they can still be functional while displaced. An advanced system called MARSHA is being used as a reservation system and stores the rewards system information for Marriot guests. Micros-Opera is a popular property based system provider and has become common within the hotel industry. Vendors usually use this since it gives them the ability to connect to other vendor's applications. MICROS 9700 HMS is the most popularly used point of sale system. There are some
galca008

How the cloud is disrupting the hospitality industry | Lightspeed POS - 1 views

www.lightspeedhq.com/...isrupting-hospitality-industry

Cloud Technology hospitality

shared by galca008 on 21 Jan 18 - No Cached
  • Now, years later, technology is once again making its mark. The hospitality industry is at “a tipping point in terms of cloud adoption”, with hoteliers expected to invest 7 – 8% more in cloud technology over the next 2 to 3 years. The current and future impact of cloud-based solutions is huge: it’s revolutionizing the way hoteliers run their businesses and interact with their customers.
  • A Frost & Sullivan study showed that business can save 50% with cloud computing solutions. The apparition of the cloud and its flexible pricing has slashed businesses’ hardware costs, making it possible for even hotels with small budgets to run an advanced management system.
  • With a cloud-based system, hoteliers can meet these evolving demands. Firstly, they can offer personalized experiences with the help of captured customer information. The cloud lets hoteliers record this data – their preferences, transactions and behavior – every time the customer interacts in some way with their hotel, such as ordering room service, eating in the hotel restaurant or even booking a day trip or spa session.
  • ...3 more annotations...
  • Secondly, they enable you to provide guests with the convenience and seamless experience they expect, even before they step into the hotel reception. Armed with a cloud-based system, you can give your guests the convenience they now expect from a hotel stay, such as booking rooms on their mobile phones or accessing their room from an app, to name a few examples. This personalized service will help you meet the needs of the evermore connected modern traveler and gain a competitive advantage.
  • Cloud-based software gives hoteliers a hotel management system that facilitates rather than restricts business operations. Unlike their on-site predecessors, cloud-based hotel management systems are entirely scalable – they have an unlimited capacity to expand. They give hoteliers the agility and freedom to add or remove resources in line with their growth and scale their hotel management systems to the services they offer.
  • One of the biggest strengths of a cloud-based hotel management system is that it can be easily connected to other software applications, even if these applications don’t share the same provider. For hoteliers, this capacity and the possibilities that it brings are revolutionary. They now have limitless flexibility to work with the vendors of their choice and can bundle applications together thereby creating a truly customized management suite that meets their needs.
  • galca008 on 21 Jan 18
     
    This article introduces cloud technology and its implementation in the hospitality industry. The author highlights the positive impacts of using cloud-based management systems in hotels. One of the benefits is that it cuts IT costs by 50% by using cloud solutions, without needing to spend on expensive hardware and IT personnel for upgrades for example. Another plus is that the data collected from guests through the cloud is being able to provide better guest experiences. If you can understand what the guest desires through the data collected then you can give them a more customized stay. The use of the cloud also allows for each business to customize their features as they desire, to scale it up, scale it down, and add or remove features they use or not. Finally, cloud-based programs are able to better connect and integrate with other programs due to its flexibility. My opinion is that this technological advancement in the hospitality industry has been a breath of fresh air. It has made the labor inherently easier and more reliable, the information it houses seems limitless, and its affordability makes it possible for smaller scale hotels to be able to implement it as well. I think this has been one of the best advances for our industry.
aycasa

8 Benefits of Using RFID Wristbands for Resorts and Attractions - US Blog - 0 views

www.idcband.com/...wristbands-resorts-attractions

shared by aycasa on 17 May 18 - No Cached
  • aycasa on 17 May 18
     
    As technology is advancing, the hospitality industry must also stay on top with the latest trends. Hotels and theme parks using RFID wristbands have gone in the last few years. "RFID Systems are advancing, and more companies than ever are offering these solutions to the leisure industry. This helps drive prices down for operators looking to take the plunge into RFID." The article mentioned 8 benefits of using RFID Wristbands in the hospitality industry. The 8 benefits are: improve guest check- in and entry, go cashless, a hands-free experience, family freedom, security and control, make a social splash, one wristband to rule them all, and lastly, data and insight. As mentioned in the article, Disney World released their wristbands, MagicBand, in 2013 and they have been a hit ever since. I personally worked at the main entrance of Disney's Magic Kingdom and it was much easier and quicker for the guest to enter the theme park with their band rather than an actual ticket. Those guests with wristbands already had them out and were ready to tap the band and touch their finger on the glass. Versus other folks where the parents had the ticket cards for their whole party and once they got to the entrance they had to look for the tickets, pass them out to their kids, and then collect them from everyone once they entered the park. Not to mention, they would have to pass the tickets back out o everyone if they are going to use a FastPass for one of the rides. RFID systems are not new to the industry, as they have actually been used for hotel key cards for many years, however, now they have given them a better use. RFID wristband users may use their band to enter theme parks, hotel rooms, and music festivals, and they can use them as a credit card to pay for things on the property. It's a huge advantage to use these wristbands because it is much easier to wear a band than having to carry around a room card, ticket and a credit card, especially at theme parks o
vmorr026

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

www.aurecongroup.com/...ng-the-very-latest-trends.aspx

shared by vmorr026 on 06 Sep 16 - No Cached
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • ...10 more annotations...
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • amichellemagluta on 06 Sep 16
     
    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.
  • lkastwood on 27 Aug 17
     
    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
  • vmorr026 on 26 Sep 17
     
    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.
teresaricks

How the cloud is disrupting the hospitality industry | Lightspeed HQ - 2 views

www.lightspeedhq.com/...isrupting-hospitality-industry

shared by teresaricks on 30 Aug 18 - No Cached
  • back in the 40
  • first hotel management system Hoteltype
  • n the 90s
  • ...25 more annotations...
  • first database management systems
  • The hospitality industry is at “a tipping point in terms of cloud adoption”, with hoteliers expected to invest 7 – 8% more in cloud technology over the next 2 to 3 years.
  • Cloud-based hotel management systems
  • hosted by the vendor’s server rather than the hotel’s
  • On-site hotel management software, managed by the hotel’s IT team, comes with considerable upfront, maintenance and running costs.
  • business can save 50% with cloud computing solutions
  • limitless flexibility to work with the vendors of their choice
  • cost of general operational and maintenance fees,
  • are part of the package and covered by the vendor
  • personalized experiences with the help of captured customer information
    • npate083
      npate083 on 08 Sep 19
       
      Cloud based services will also allow the hotel to enhance the guest experience. The customer information can be captured and be shared through multiple outlets in a building to ensure the guest is receiving the best service possible.
  • With traditional software, hoteliers are limited to standalone software packages
  • Cloud-based applications are offered as software as a service (SaaS)
    • npate083
      npate083 on 08 Sep 19
       
      Using cloud services will allow businesses to save on hardware installation cost as well as maintenance and running costs. According to this article, businesses can save 50% of their IT costs by switching to cloud services.
  • cloud-based hotel management systems are entirely scalable – they have an unlimited capacity to expand
  • One of the biggest strengths of a cloud-based hotel management system is that it can be easily connected to other software applications, even if these applications don’t share the same provider.
    • npate083
      npate083 on 08 Sep 19
       
      Cloud services allows the flexibility of using multiple vendors of your choice, as opposed to traditional software that did not offer that type of flexibility.
  • The reality is that with traditional hotel management software, adding and removing resources is difficult and hoteliers are essentially stuck with one system until the license expiry date
  • The hospitality industry is at “a tipping point in terms of cloud adoption”, with hoteliers expected to invest 7 – 8% more in cloud technology over the next 2 to 3 years.
  • Cloud-based hotel management systems – or, simply put, systems hosted by the vendor’s server rather than the hotel’s – give hoteliers a single, scalable system from which to manage every aspect of their hotel business.
  • A Frost & Sullivan study showed that business can save 50% with cloud computing solutions. The apparition of the cloud and its flexible pricing has slashed businesses’ hardware costs, making it possible for even hotels with small budgets to run an advanced management system.
  • SaaS hotel management systems are pay-as-you-go. Therefore, rather than having to pay a large sum for a long-term commitment, hoteliers can pay smaller amounts on a regular basis.
  • The cloud lets hoteliers record this data – their preferences, transactions and behavior – every time the customer interacts in some way with their hotel, such as ordering room service, eating in the hotel restaurant or even booking a day trip or spa session.They can then use this data to make suggestions based on the customer’s preferences and behavior.
  • Secondly, they enable you to provide guests with the convenience and seamless experience they expect, even before they step into the hotel reception. Armed with a cloud-based system, you can give your guests the convenience they now expect from a hotel stay, such as booking rooms on their mobile phones or accessing their room from an app, to name a few examples.
  • with traditional hotel management software, adding and removing resources is difficult and hoteliers are essentially stuck with one system until the license expiry date. You’re in a contract, with very little wiggle room.
  • Cloud-based software gives hoteliers a hotel management system that facilitates rather than restricts business operations. Unlike their on-site predecessors, cloud-based hotel management systems are entirely scalable – they have an unlimited capacity to expand. They give hoteliers the agility and freedom to add or remove resources in line with their growth and scale their hotel management systems to the services they offer.
  • One of the biggest strengths of a cloud-based hotel management system is that it can be easily connected to other software applications, even if these applications don’t share the same provider.For hoteliers, this capacity and the possibilities that it brings are revolutionary. They now have limitless flexibility to work with the vendors of their choice and can bundle applications together thereby creating a truly customized management suite that meets their needs.
  • Cloud-based technology gives hoteliers the key to run smart businesses that are in tune with modern-day travelers, and more profitable.
  • klint005 on 30 Aug 18
     
    This article speaks on how cloud systems are changing the hospitality system in a BIG way. Listed below, are how it is doing so successfully: Due to Cloud-based applications being offered by a vendor, there is no expensive hardware to install which makes it a reoccurring system for smaller hotels to be able to use such an advanced system. They allow guests to maneuver through their stay stress-free and giving them the convenience of not having to go down to the front desk to ask questions or make any food orders and these cloud systems record their behavior which allows the hotels to give them suggestions on where to go, what spa treatments to get and of course, what food to order. It also allows hotels to integrate software with various vendors unlike the traditional ones being used. With this, hoteliers can now have a customized management suite to meet all of their needs.
  • ...1 more comment...
  • Olivier on 27 Aug 19
     
    Cloud computing software basically allows hotels to build their own IT infrastructure. Cloud computing is expanding in the trends of hospitality software allowing hotelier to operate their hotel management system with just a computer and a web browser wherever they are on real time. In addition one of the main advantage is the ability to integrate other vendor's software into their own opening a seeming less opportunity to work with whoever they desire. Cloud computing allows a cost reduction on the IT department as well as a better connectivity with guest demands and expectations.
  • npate083 on 08 Sep 19
     
    This article summarizes the benefits of switching from a traditional software system to a cloud based system. Some of the benefits the article mentions are low costs, better guest experience, and more flexibility. The article highly suggests that in the next few years most hoteliers will be switching to a cloud based software system.
  • teresaricks on 25 Jan 21
     
    This article gives an in depth look at how cloud computing is enhancing the hospitality industry. It gives a variety of pros to cloud computing and compares cloud computing to traditional or older ways of using servers.
abroo041

Must-Know Event Technology Trends for 2020 | Social Tables - 3 views

www.socialtables.com/...event-technology-trends

shared by abroo041 on 09 Jul 17 - No Cached
  • In addition to speeding up registration time, incorporating RFID technology into events will help with both qualitative and quantitative data analysis, thereby making it easier for planners to target what worked during their event and what didn’t.
  • Though event apps are admittedly helpful, they now have a new hurdle to face. Producing an application to be used for one event is costly, time consuming, and inefficient, as users must learn how to interact with the app for each new event attended. Phone storage space is very important to consumers. Many are hesitant to download an application that they will only use once. Thus, event apps that can continue to deliver value to customers beyond the date of the event itself, are going to become a huge trend.
  • RFID also has the potential to allow attendees to become more engaged with the event across various social platforms.
  • ...71 more annotations...
  • Menu options, travel directions, appointment updates, facial recognition software and contact information are just the beginning of the very real ways that event planners will soon be able to use wearable tech.
  • Event technology trends aside, the number one thing for any event professional to remember, is to let your tools work for you, rather than the other way around. The purpose of implementing advanced technology is to make your life, and the life of those whom you plan events for, as easy as possible.
  • 5G will also make it more feasible to incorporate the cutting-edge into event experiences.
  • Projection mapping is the act of creating an augmented reality experience with the help of projectors.
  • this visual technology proves to be an efficient and cost effective way to create optical illusions in nearly every location.
  • event technology adoption can increase attendance by 20%, increase productivity by 27%, and decrease costs by as much as 30%.
  • branded apps provide limitless opportunities to interact with consumers right on their own phones
  • Apps can be customized to appear as if they were created specifically for events or stays, while offering functionality that serves to enhance and personalize the attendee experience.
  • Planners can utilize branded multi-use apps to connect with attendees and engage them on a variety of levels before, during, and after the occasion.
  • Event spaces can create customized apps to enhance experiences and share things like helpful facts, historical tidbits, and even the personalities of their unique employees,
  • Because they’re often cloud-based, these programs also provide accurate, customizable, and collaborative project planning that’s accessible by all managing parties
  • With event diagramming software, both event planners and venues are able to map everything out visually
  • provides helpful tools like drag-and-drop diagramming, 3D walkthroughs, and seating software on a single platform.
  • Hotels especially can use apps in this way, allowing guests to control their rooms from their phones and even communicate with chatbots to find nearby attractions.
  • Projection mapping5GBranded multi-use appsEvent diagramming
  • It also opens up new possibilities for app developers to push the boundaries of current event tech trends
    • abroo041
      abroo041 on 23 Jun 20
       
      The world of technology is advancing every day. As technology grows and advances, so does its use in the events industry. This blog post discusses some of the technological advances that have made their debut in the events industry and how they can improve an event, how they help the event planner and venue, and even shows us examples of how they are used in real life. It gives statistics on how these technologies have benefit events. For example, when the blog post speaks about gamification, it mentions that "gamified events see a 44 percent increase in engagement". The post is not only suggesting to us that adding gamification is a good idea for future events, but it shows us how well gamification works.
  • Knowing event technology trends—and adopting the most valuable ones—gives planners and venues the competitive advantage
  • Studies show that using event technology can increase attendance by 20 percent and increase productivity by 27 percent. 
  • Each match automates personalized actions, such as printing a badge with the attendees name, sending an email with a scannable lunch voucher, and finalizing a swag bag for their ticket-tier (no sense creating swag bags for no-shows).
  • The technology speeds event check-ins, improves security, and helps businesses at tradeshows collect more valuable leads by tracking attendee visits to booths.
  • can also use facial recognition to watch for crowd flow bottlenecks and collect session attendance data so you know what worked—and what didn’t.
  • The ability to support advanced tech like facial recognition makes venues more attractive to corporate planners. The technology also allows automation at certain access points, which means lower manpower requirements and lower costs. 
  • Properly integrated apps add value to events, providing attendees with more opportunities for networking, interaction, and engagement with peers, speakers, and exhibitors.
  • Offering tech to support projection mapping provides bang for the buck. There’s no need to physically construct or deconstruct any part of your exhibit hall to add this fun, popular technology to your toolbox and draw more events. 
  • This visual technology is an efficient, cost-effective way to create optical illusions on anything—from cars to landmarks to stages.
  • With tradeshow or conference maps, speaker bios, and schedules in the event app, there’s no need for bulky information packets. Push notifications in the apps help keep attendees informed and on schedule. Planners can also use apps to personalize the event agenda through live polling and attract event sponsors with the option of targeted attendee surveys.  
  • Event spaces can create customized apps to share helpful info like maps, historical tidbits, and even the personalities of their unique employees
  • Easy-to-use 3D event diagramming software provides accurate, customizable, collaborative project planning regardless of venue design or size.
  • Give clients peace of mind and leave nothing to chance on the big dayUpload a floor plan to work with, so you know the diagram is to scaleTake clients and stakeholders on 3D ‘fly throughs’ to clarify your visionPlan seating charts and manage attendees’ meal choices or other preferencesHelp staff easily identify and accommodate VIPs and guests with special requests
  • Sales reps can collaborate with planners in real time, share variations on the event proposal, and visually portray upsells.
  • Attendees can use this tech to follow slide presentations, participate with quizzes and polls, take notes, and engage in text-based Q&A. They can also view graphs, tables, videos, and other content; and follow website and social media links. 
  • Any speaker can keep an audience attentive and engaged with this technology, leading to good reviews and a successful event.
  • Supporting second screen tech for presentations is much less expensive than making physical upgrades that aren’t in the budget. 
  • This data underscores the importance of social media sentiment analysis in monitoring your brand and messaging, keeping an eye on competitors, and making improvements to services during and after events.
  • Tracking attendee activity on social media during an event provides actionable data to help you make adjustments in real-time
  • Replenishing food and beveragesEasing show floor bottlenecksDriving session attendanceAddressing technology issues (mobile apps, Wi-Fi, or audio/visual)
  • Venues can social media sentiment to promote popular services and learn where there’s room for improvement:
  • Wristbands and smart badges using near-field communication (NFC) chips keep disruptions and lines to a minimum, thereby increasing attendee productivity and engagement.
  • Access different event areasExchange information with peersReceive exhibitor marketing materialMake cashless purchases
  • Wearable tech helps you speed-up check-in, control access, and monitor attendee behavior with less staffing. It also improves ROI for exhibitors, who can drive attendees wearing the tech to visit a booth of interest based on an individual’s profile.
  • On-site staff can use real-time data to learn when they need to offer overflow rooms or investigate security breaches, such as non-VIP guests in restricted areas. 
  • Indoor wayfinding helps attendees navigate exhibit halls with ease,
  • gather useful attendee behavioral data, send leads to sales team members in real-time, and build attendee profiles to send targeted messaging
  • You can also incorporate proximity advertising options as a value-add for exhibitors and sponsor
  • Post-event, you can utilize IPS data to see where attendees spent their time visiting booths and attending presentations.
  • Adding hotel bars, restaurants, spas, gift shops, and other amenities to the location map can help drive additional revenue during events while improving the attendee experience
  • store attendee admission information on their person, helping to detect fraud and streamline access
  • Attendees can review their travels throughout a tradeshow and see who they interacted with, while exhibitors are notified in real-time when sought-after prospects come into their booth.
  • Planners can generate pop-up directions for attendees based on their location at an event instead of investing in producing/shipping/replacing physical signage
  • validates your event and highlights improvement opportunities by tracking session popularity, length of attendee visits to exhibitor booths, and strong tradeshow traffic.  
  • RFID and beacon technology helps security and general event staff do their job better in real-time, which is essential for building trust and streamlining crowded events
  • event planners are turning to venue sourcing platforms to connect with the perfect site for their particular event.
  • discover detailed venue layouts, capacity ranges, and on-site services
  • Venue platforms offer exceptional ROI and generate more leads through improved discoverability.
  • Convey elements that make your venue uniqueShowcase your event spaces visually with accurate floor plans, 3D diagrams, quality photos, and videosLeverage the success of past events with testimonials and social media accolades
  • artificial intelligence (AI) tech is using badge scans, social media info, and other behavioral data to match attendees with people they should meet or seminars they may want to attend. 
  • Instead of taking-up significant time pre-event and on-site manually recommending seminars, exhibitors, and sponsors to attendees, AI can do it for you—even in real-time—based on their profiles and preferences captured during registration. 
  • it requires transparency and advance notice about how you may use data submitted by attendees. 
  • Attendees entering the geofenced area triggers predetermined actions, such as event check-in, push notifications, or advertising related to the event. 
  • Planners can sell geofencing to exhibitors and sponsors to reach attendees at events, or even promote their event on attendee devices at a competing event under a separate geofence. You can also provide attendees with a better experience via seamless registration and check-in, along with automatic app downloads as soon as they walk on-site.
  • provides analytics, both post-event and in real-time to help you better understand things like the duration of an attendee’s time at an event and overall peak attendance. 
  • Hotels can serve ads promoting their brand, facility, and services to attendees at events
  • once a prospect visits an event website, ads for that event will appear on any subsequent websites the prospect visits, in the form of website banner ads, search engine results, and pop-up or push ads on mobile apps. 
  • Event marketing teams should develop relevant and creative ads with clearly visible event dates to convince prospects who have visited an event website, but haven’t yet registered
  • venues can use it to generate return visits from event planners
  • retarget attendees during events with offers for in-house services like food and beverage, spa, and discounts on extending their stay.
  • Gameplay creates an immersive attendee experience, while generating leads and booth visits for exhibitors via quizzes, scavenger hunts, and trivia on mobile apps.
  • Gameplay fosters a sense of common purpose; creates an environment of collaboration and trust; facilitates easier communication; and boosts attendee confidence. You can also gather information about attendee engagement and interests via game choices.
  • Promoting the use of gameplay on-site showcases a venue to organizations looking for facilities supporting team building exercises as well as immersive attendee experiences.
  • Event technology is a term used to describe all of the digital tools and software used in the events industry. Everything from check in & registration, to diagramming, to social media tools, and more can be considered event technology.
  • kdibe001 on 09 Jul 17
     
    RFID, event applications, wearable technology, virtual reality, and social media are upcoming popular uses for event planners. With RFID event planners are able to keep better track of the guests attending the event as well as keeping them more involved. I first heard of this a few months ago when attending an event and it described that a chip with RFID was placed inside the wristband-type ticket. For me, the most interesting thing is the wearable technology! Imagine an event where you can have directions given to you or a layout of the event right on your wrist! Also, the watch can notify you of events happening within an event or you can see order your food or see the menu. To know that soon enough it will be a norm for everyone to have some type of wearable technology and that event planners can truly get the guests involved through this use is exciting.
  • ...2 more comments...
  • nicolettevelez on 25 Jun 18
     
    This article discusses five major event technology trends. The first is RFID, which can assist in registration time but even more important is being used to gather both qualitative and quantitative data analysis. This kind of data acquisition is great because it allows for planners to analysis, study and understand what worked and didn't work for their events. The second is multi-use apps. These apps allow the event to incorporate important aspects like activities, scheduled break down, and speaker info all at once. Additionally these apps allow attendees to socialize with other participants, and expand their network. The other technologies are some that can definitely change the industry once they are fully integrated. These include: wearable technology, virtual reality, and social media.
  • linanzhang on 29 Oct 18
     
    Nowadays the event planning becomes more and more popular. With the development of event planning, we have 5 event technology trends shaping the future of event planning. The first on is RFID-radio frequency identification. In addition to speeding up registration time, incorporating RFID technology into events will help with both qualitative and quantitative data analysis, thereby making it easier for planners to target what worked during their event and what didn't. In this way, it will be easier to foster repeat attendees. The second one is multi-use apps. It's easy to use apps to solve problems. event apps that can continue to deliver value to customers beyond the date of the event itself are going to become a huge trend. The third one is wearable technology. Like google glasses should be a trend in the future. Facial recognition and contact information make the event planning more easier. The fourth one is VR. VR is a great way to up attendee engagement during events. The last one is social media. Social media will be a really important trend. Social media is more than likely the way that investors and sponsors will advertise your event.
  • samanthapoorman on 28 Feb 19
     
    This article introduces four new advances to technology that help ease the process of event planning. Projection mapping, 5G, Branded multi-use apps, and event diagramming.
  • zxu009 on 23 Apr 19
     
    This article shares the technology innovation with meeting/convention operations and how these technology help offer better guest satisfaction.
tcale003

5 Reasons Why You Need A Travel Agent - More Than Ever - 0 views

www.forbes.com/...d-a-travel-agentmore-than-ever

Travel advisors agent air expertise emergencies

shared by tcale003 on 26 May 20 - No Cached
    • tcale003
      tcale003 on 26 May 20
       
      Travel agents are considered travel advisors or consultants. Large corporations still use travel advisors for their travel needs. Travel consultants are needed for a multitude of reason including their expertise.
  • Travel agents are even more important to luxury travelers, who ironically often think they know a lot about travel and rely on their own misguided sense of expertise. But while a good agent is so vital that it is simply foolish to plan a high-end trip on your own without one, they can also help travelers of all budgets.
  • pros of using an agent: “They can find crazy deals”; “They will be your advocate”; “They’ll take care of the little things”;
  • ...13 more annotations...
  • The reality is that while it was widely predicted that the internet was going to kill off travel agents when digital tools were placed at every traveler’s disposal, that just hasn’t happened, for several good reasons.
  • a good travel advisor can often save you money.
  • true experts” and “They don’t usually cost extra.”
  • My tech savviest friends use travel advisors, and so does every major corporation - because it is the smart thing to do.
  • “Information overload, thousands of new hotels on the scene, all sorts of new cruise ships, passport and visa issues, weather, transit strikes, political unrest, natural disasters, travel insurance, travel providers going out of business, it’s never ending. How does one navigate all of this? To avoid the travel landmines that lay in front of you, you need to get a great travel advisor!
  • “They’re
  • good travel agents prefer to be called travel advisors, or sometimes travel consultants, and those are both totally accurate, but since most people still think of the industry in terms of travel agents
  • “Travel agents are a thing of the past - they primarily booked tickets and beds. Travel advisors have taken on a much more complex role - part psychologist, life coach, executive producer, concierge, fixer, dream maker, and ‘Blink Blink’ genie, with the multitude of services that they provide.”
  • Emergencies:
  • Expertise
  • VIP Connection
  • Extras
  • Better Trips
  • tcale003 on 26 May 20
     
    There are many reasons one still needs a travel agent. They are now called advisors or consultants because of what they can do and their knowledge. These advisors can assist with a multitude of things including emergencies, getting great deals on trips, They will be your best advocate when issues arise and at no extra cost to the consumer. In addition, a good travel advisors save you time and money on trying to plan you own trip. Travel agents who just booked flights and beds are a thing of the past, travel advisors play a much more complex role and provie a great variety of services.
kenziemoody

Technology in the Hospitality Industry - Have We Gone Too Far? | By Court Williams &amp... - 3 views

www.hospitalitynet.org/...4092507.html

technology hospitality travel

shared by kenziemoody on 16 Jan 20 - No Cached
  • The hospitality industry is changing, and is rapidly becoming super high-tech.
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      The hospitality industry is changing, and is rapidly becoming super high-tech.
  • On arrival at their destination, guests no longer need to wait in line for the key to their room. They can now check in and out using electronic kiosks, online and mobile check-ins. Automated payments and the use of smartphones for keyless entry, making requests, online purchases, or even placing room service orders makes self-service an attractive option.
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      Arrival technology - On arrival at their destination, guests no longer need to wait in line for the key to their room. They can now check in and out using electronic kiosks, online and mobile check-ins. Automated payments and the use of smartphones for keyless entry, making requests, online purchases, or even placing room service orders makes self-service an attractive option.
  • With the advent of technology, however, many activities previously performed by live humans have been replaced by automated methods, mainly in the attempt to streamline functionality and improve service
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      With the advent of technology, however, many activities previously performed by live humans have been replaced by automated methods, mainly in the attempt to streamline functionality and improve service
  • ...23 more annotations...
  • With the rising popularity of online reviews, hospitality guests now have the ability to research any venue to see what others have posted.
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      Pro:With the rising popularity of online reviews, hospitality guests now have the ability to research any venue to see what others have posted.
  • Both review websites and social media platforms have become active gateways to global opinion, and travelers use these extensively to help them decide where to book
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      Pro:Both review websites and social media platforms have become active gateways to global opinion, and travelers use these extensively to help them decide where to book
  • Technology is shaping how lodgings and restaurants are found and booked
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      Technology is shaping how lodgings and restaurants are found and booked
  • Improving a guest's experience depends on the ability to identify the individual guest's preferences. The best way to determine these is by collecting data from first-, second- and third-party sources, combining and analyzing it effectively.
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      Data has enhanced guest experience: Improving a guest's experience depends on the ability to identify the individual guest's preferences. The best way to determine these is by collecting data from first-, second- and third-party sources, combining and analyzing it effectively.
  • guests can now control all the functions of the room from a single device
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      Pro: guests can now control all the functions of the room from a single device
  • We have also seen the emergence of cost-saving technologies that not only focus on guest loyalty but also reduce fixed costs and overheads.
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      Pro: We have also seen the emergence of cost-saving technologies that not only focus on guest loyalty but also reduce fixed costs and overheads.
  • statistics that show an undoubtedly positive response to technology,
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      Technology in the industry is well received
  • Biometric authentication offers the most secure method of proving identity that's currently available, and the hospitality industry has been quick to realize the need for this level of safety.
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      Technology has improved security: Biometric authentication offers the most secure method of proving identity that's currently available, and the hospitality industry has been quick to realize the need for this level of safety.
  • Theoretically, it should improve the customer experience, particularly through the use of data collected by using the various technologies
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      Theoretically, it should improve the customer experience, particularly through the use of data collected by using the various technologies
  • two-thirds of U.S. hotel guest respondents felt it was either "extremely important" or "very important" for hotels to continue investing in technology to enhance the guest experience.
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      two-thirds of U.S. hotel guest respondents felt it was either "extremely important" or "very important" for hotels to continue investing in technology to enhance the guest experience.
  • it seems travelers of all ages are keen to make the most of online hotel reservations and reviews
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      it seems travelers of all ages are keen to make the most of online hotel reservations and reviews
  • hey understand the need for (and value of) using technology to support the guest experience, and although they are rapidly embracing many aspects of this brave new world, they still need to be able to consult with a human being if required.
    • kaylaabad
      kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
       
      They appreciate t hey understand the need for (and value of) using technology to support the guest experience, and although they are rapidly embracing many aspects of this brave new world, they still need to be able to consult with a human being if required.
  • it seems travelers of all ages are keen to make the most of online hotel reservations and reviews
  • he experience is now facilitated by technological factors,
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 13 Jul 20
       
      The key word is facilitates, I think that technology has enhanced experience but should never replace the hospitality warm feeling aspect.
  • Baby Boomers who look set to remain the most prolific travelers for the next two to three years, and see if the numbers support the theory that technology has improved the hospitality experience.
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 13 Jul 20
       
      I think that technology is becoming a necessity in the hospitality industry. There is a need to be up to date. Especially if you want to attract the new generation of travelers.
  • But is it really an improvement, or has the industry gone too far? Do these changes enhance the guest's experience, or have we forfeited the true meaning of the word "hospitality" in the process?
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 13 Jul 20
       
      I think that the industry is just simply evolving with the times.
  • how much is it taking away from the guest's personal experience?
  • shows the reviews for companies in the hospitality industry are considered 48% more important and valuable than in other industries, which indicates the target audience takes online reviews exceptionally seriously
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 13 Jul 20
       
      I think that this just leads to different opportunities. Now you can show off on your social media how great your hotel is and its advantages. The only negative is how easily someone can write a negative review that might not even be true.
  • These have taken off extensively, with research showing one half of millennials, 26% of Gen Xers and 12% of Baby Boomers consider themselves "travel hackers," which means they believe they know all the best ways to use technology for good deals. Chatbots on booking websites enable the user to ask questions without even getting up from the sofa.
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 13 Jul 20
       
      People are spending more time looking for the perfect hotel and for the best price. I know I do this whenever I travel and most of the time becoming a member for something like the Marriott, will end up being the best deal.
  • The benefits of automation will soon become crystal clear.
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 13 Jul 20
       
      This just helps improve the service and you will still need someone at the front desk.
  • Guests can stream SHOWTIME shows for free through the app, without needing to input credentials or create a subscription. Anyone who prefers not to download the app can operate the same controls using a simplified, in-room remote device.
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 13 Jul 20
       
      I feel like this just enhances the experience and makes it more personal.
  • from notifications about special deals to managing their loyalty program account.
    • cleon087
      cleon087 on 13 Jul 20
       
      Investing in a well designed app for your company is crucial now.
  • e, for example, the system can automatically send the conference itinerary and a map of the meeting spaces to his or her device.
  • augu010 on 16 Jan 20
     
    The Hospitality industry have been greatly impacted over the years by the advancements made in technology. Customers have everything assessable by the click of a button or utilization of an app. Various software is being created to provide for quick and easy service but in turn takes away from the personal experiences.
  • ...1 more comment...
  • kaylaabad on 29 Feb 20
     
    "All of this indicates that while a hotel offering a truly connected experience is likely to be full of very happy, empowered guests, we can't quite replace the human touch completely just yet." Though technology is taking over the industry, it is important that we not lose or completely replace the humanity of the industry. While technology has enhanced the employee experience and guests do appreciate it, they also like to know that they have a human waiting for them should they have any issues. All in all, technology has improved the industry by enabling a more personalized and empowering experience and increasing the safety of the guests and employees.
  • cleon087 on 13 Jul 20
     
    This article is about the new advances in technology and investing whether it has been taken too far. It analyzes the new advancements such as apps where reservations are made. These new technologies have been made to enhance experience but not replace the warm feeling that hospitality gives you. The article concludes that we haven't taken it too far, instead it has made guest experience better. Especially when it comes to checking in, and not having to wait a huge line when you just want to get to your room.
  • kenziemoody on 30 Aug 20
     
    As we learned this week, technology is impacting the hospitality industry. As the article states- "improving a guest's experience depends on the ability to identify the individual guest's preferences." This reminded me of the Smart Bar video we watched this week. Technology can enhance the quality of experience. However, depending on the businness/ company- most people would be unwilling to put a an investment into tech unless they see a significant uptake from the technology. Even though technology plays a major role in the industry, it has not completely took over human interaction.
ldevaul

The Benefits of Hiring an Influencer for Hospitality Marketing | By Colin Hannan - Hosp... - 0 views

www.hospitalitynet.org/...4100855.html

social media hospitality pandemic COVID-19 influencers marketing hotel technology business tech travel

shared by ldevaul on 28 Sep 21 - No Cached
  • Influencers have been a part of modern hotel marketing strategies for several years now, and it could be argued that influencers have played a key role in traditional hotel marketing for many decades
  • Think of how The Ritz in Paris became synonymous with icons like Coco Chanel and Ernest Hemingway - who they've named their old world cocktail bar after.
  • Inspire an Established Audience
  • ...14 more annotations...
  • The right influencer should match both your brand values and the values of your audience, bringing an already-established crowd of relevant consumers to your digital door.
  • The audience's goal is to use that influencer's experiences to guide and inform them as they choose their next getaway destination - positioning your property as the place to be.
  • Educate Your Audience
  • Hotel guests can't get enough of reviews - the more in-depth, the better. An influencer can provide the most detailed content about your brand and the guest experience you offer through high-impact channels utilising video, blogs and photography.
  • The best influencers are seen by their audience to be unbiased and objective, which puts them in a position of authority and trustworthiness when it comes to purchasing decisions.
  • People follow influencers and engage with them because they believe they have a wider range of experience to better understand the brand, products and services they are talking about, similar to a professional hotel reviewer.
  • influencer marketing actively builds trust in your brand.
  • it's an ongoing challenge for hotels and hospitality marketing departments to keep coming up with something fresh and exciting - something their audience wants to see.
  • Good professional influencers really shine when it comes to this side of hotel marketing strategies. Not only do they have a deep understanding of what their audience (and therefore your audience) is looking for and what resonates with them, they are also creative specialists in finding fresh and entertaining ways to deliver this content.
  • leveraging their creative expertise is not only rewarding in terms of results, but helps to avoid critical missteps that can happen in a marketing strategy. You'll get more engagement, avoid the kind of faux pas that can cost you, and drive followers and leads to your website and social pages.
  • COVID-19 has made social media more powerful than ever before
  • Instagram, a primary platform for many influencers, saw some of the biggest increase in terms of use, with 2020 projections showing 14% growth - an additional 3 minutes of time per user on the platform per day.
  • One of the best ways of leveraging these changes in user behaviour work for your hotel marketing strategy is to get an established influencer who understands you brand and already has a relationship with your target audience to work on your campaigns.
  • Influencer Marketing is the Edge Your Hotel Marketing Strategy Needs
  • ldevaul on 28 Sep 21
     
    This article discusses the benefits of utilizing influencer marketing to give your hotel/restaurant marketing strategy a more competitive edge. They noted that influencers inspire an already established audience and provide inspiration to followers to live more fully and "experience something out-of-the-ordinary." I learned that the key to a great influencer is finding someone who matches both your brand values and the values of your audience. They also discussed how influencers add authority and trust and how they are seen by their audience to be unbiased and objective. This puts the influencer in a position of great trustworthiness when it comes to purchasing decisions. The article also discussed how influencers help marketing departments by coming up with fresh and exciting content that their audiences will want to see. Lastly, the article touched on that since the COVID-19 pandemic social media has become more powerful than ever before. People are spending an additional 3 minutes on Instagram per day. The best way to leverage this new increased usage is to get an established influencer who understands your band and who already has a relationship with your targeted audience to work on your campaigns. Overall, influencer marketing is here to stay and if carefully researched you'll see a strong surge of engagement on your social media platforms.
anonymous

Future of Global Distribution for Airline Travel - 1 views

tourism.about.com/...ionSystemsforAirlineTravel.htm

shared by anonymous on 09 Feb 12 - No Cached
  • Imagine if every airline used a separate reservation system to distribute flight information, instead of the familiar global distribution systems (GDS) in place now
  • As travel professionals are aware, Southwest Airlines are not available in most systems for booking reservations. However, they do not negotiate with distribution companies to sell their product.
  • Then travel companies would be charged to have the Direct Connect system in the long run, thus paying for the opportunity to sell American flights.
  • ...10 more annotations...
  • American suggests that distribution companies begin using Direct Connect, powered by Farelogix. Travel professionals view this alternative concept as having to use a separate system for American Airlines reservations, possibly complimentary on a trial basis to the travel management company.
  • This may be the biggest travel industry news in the United States and beyond, since the deletion of travel agency commissions. There is also the possibility that more consumers will begin relying on travel agents to locate the best airfares.
  • They suggest it will make ancillary fees, such as priority seat and meal fees easier to track for business travel.
  • Imagine if every airline used a separate reservation system to distribute flight information, instead of the familiar global distribution systems (GDS) in place now. Individuals and travel professionals would have to compare flight costs on every reservation website or call each airline separately.
  • If every airline decides to utilize a different system and charge for their product to be sold, then travel companies may have to forward their costs to travelers, hence driving up the price of airfares.
  • American Airlines airfares can no longer be found on Expedia or Orbitz websites, or any site powered by Orbitz. These are two of many airline distribution sites that consumers can compare and book flights they choose. Each did not come to an agreement with American Airlines for a new contract to distribute American Airlines' product.
  • The contracts for the global distribution systems, Worldspan and Sabre, will be up for renewal soon this year. What will happen with American flights and air fares in those systems? Will American not be offered in those systems as well, if an agreement cannot be made? What happens if other airlines decide to join with American? This may be the biggest travel industry news in the United States and beyond, since the deletion of travel agency commissions.
  • Though this is a major obstacle for travel agencies and other travel management companies, travel agencies, being fearful of the outcome for consumers, are ready to stand their ground and protect themselves and consumers alike.
  • As travel professionals are aware, Southwest Airlines are not available in most systems for booking reservations. However, they do not negotiate with distribution companies to sell their product. For the most part, Southwest is self-contained and stands on their own, as far as distribution methods go.
  • As travel professionals are aware, Southwest Airlines are not available in most systems for booking reservations. However, they do not negotiate with distribution companies to sell their product. For the most part, Southwest is self-contained and stands on their own, as far as distribution methods go.
  • Marcia Brown-Kelly on 09 Feb 12
     
    It appears that American Airline is about to remove itself from the tradition global distribution system and introduce its own distribution system. American Airlines is advocating for distribution companies to utilize AA direct connect which is a direct link into AA's host reservations system. Currently American Airlines fares are no longer available on Expedia or Orbitz sites. This is because no contractual agreement was reached for the distribution of AA products. Travel professionals are waiting to see the result of this bold move by American as this has great implication for the future of airline distribution systems. If American Airlines pulls away from the mainstream GDS, consumers and travel specialist alike will be faced with the inconvenience of going to a separate reservations system to compare fares. Although travel professionals are now urged to use direct connect on a trial basis, the general feeling is that eventually they will be charged to sell American Airline flights. To defend this move American Airline is only saying that direct connect will make it easier for them to tract ancillary fees like priority seating. It was noted in the article that Southwest Airline for the most part is a stand alone reservations system but they do not negotiate with the GDS companies to sell their flights. It is therefore quite evident that this move by American is really to reduce expenditure by eliminating the middle GDS companies while increasing revenue by charging travel partners for utilizing direct connect. American Airlines clearly wants to globally control their distribution system and maximize revenues. Contract renewal for both world span and sabre are due and the experts are waiting to see if American will renew with them. Sabre is owned by American Airlines so its a wait and see game to see how all this will be panned out. The real problem for the consumers and travel specialists are that if other airlines are to follow this move by American the tra
  • ...2 more comments...
  • Rixon campbell on 03 Sep 12
     
    Global distribution systems (GDS) are used within the travel industry for the booking of flights a service that was once performed by travel agents. With the introduction of GDS many jobs were loss. Because GDS are contracted services with World- span and Sabre renewal and renegotiation of contracts may pose a problem. There are many pros and cons to the GDS for consumers such as booking of flights anytime and the loss of personal relations with the travel agents. According to Bonnie Burgess, the renewal of the GDS with world-span and Sabre is eminent which might create a problem for consumes if the negotiation falls apart. There was a similar situation Direct TV and the provider of many channels to Direct TV when they could not come an agreement, and, in the final analysis the consumers were the ones who suffered. Southwest and American airlines are two airlines who defended why they felt that booking directly at the website is the best options for travelers. The conclusion, is that there are advantages and disadvantages to the GDS. one of the overarching disadvantage is when there are difficulties with meeting of the minds in contractual negotiations.
  • Mariana Sales de Jesus on 15 Sep 12
     
    The article highlighted reports how hard would be for travel agents to work without and Global Distribution System due to difficulty to generate price comparison reports to customers. It is also mentioned that American Airlines Airfares are no longer posted to the two majot websites for price comparison (Expedia and Orbitz). American Airlines will be using another website called Direct Connect which will be complimentary on a trial basis. In order to have full access, customers or travel agents would have pay for a membership. The process will have a higher cost and will be more time consuming. Southwest Airlines is acting the same way. The intention is to avoid comparison and encourage direct booking with the airlines. This difficulties presented by hotels and airlines may require more usage of a travel agent to do research for consumers. GDS's contracts are up for renewal and the concern is whether or not airlines will get into an agreement where rates will still be posted on the system avoiding several searches in multiple sources.
  • mjbengo04 on 06 Sep 16
     
    This article explains the distribution route American Airlines is taking to sell their flights. Due to not seeing eye to eye with the two most probably used websites for travel, Expedia and Orbitz, American has now taken their products away from both airline distribution sites. American suggest that all travel agencies and distribution companies begin using Direct Connect, which is a system for only American Airlines flights. If this would happen, travel agencies and companies will then begin having to pay for the system in order to sell Americans flights. At the moment you can still book flights through other distribution sites, but until when will that be? They already stopped Orbitz and Expedia, what's not to stop the others. The future of global distribution systems will be up in the air if all airlines choose to sell their own systems to be able to sell reservations. The only positive that was pointed out in this article was that if this system takes over, then more consumers will have to go back to using travel agents to secure the best reservations for flights and such.
  • anonymous on 18 Sep 16
     
    With the contracts for major global systems, Worldspan and Sabre, being up for renewal in the near future, this article analyses the possible outcomes for airlines, and alternatives should they choose not to forgo continuing use of GDS
Jenna Rashbaum

Biometrics Provide Undeniable Time & Attendance for Beachside Resorts | Case Studies | ... - 0 views

hospitalitytechnology.edgl.com/...nce-for-Beachside-Resorts54650

biometrics hospitality resorts technology travel software

shared by Jenna Rashbaum on 24 Aug 12 - No Cached
  • Jenna Rashbaum on 24 Aug 12
     
    The La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club in California has had many problems with time cards for their employees over the past several years. They used to use swipe cards with bar-codes to tell when people were coming in and out of work but there are a lot of problems with that technology. If people misplaced their cards or knew they were going to be late so gave it to a co-worker to punch them in is not a very smart thing to have in the hotel. After a lot of problems with this system management finally went in a new direction. They decided to move to newer technology and go with Biometrics. The hotel now has a hand reader system that makes every employee get there hand measured to clock in. This technology measured length, width, thickness, and surface area of the hand to store in the system so it knows each persons hand every time they go to clock in any time there after. When going to clock in the system asks for the employee number and then is ready for your hand on the little screen for your scan. The entire process of this takes under 1 minute. This technology of the HandPunch 3000 not only allows the employees to clock in but also allows management to collect data for pay codes, tips collected, and to allow the employees to go back and view their past times in and out. This system is a very green way to go in the hotel industry because there is no paper for records of clock in times, and there are no swipe cards that need to be made for clock in times. Ever since this hotel got the HandPunch 3000 they have not had issues of other employees clocking in other people. The system of course had some glitches to it in the beginning but they were fixed immediately while the staff was there installing it. My only question to this article that is not answered is : since it is a machine that has to be plugged in, what happens if the power goes out? Can employees still clock in to work because the hotel still is functioning?
Linlin Mo

Visit Baltimore launches 3D map app for city tourists - Baltimore Business Journal - 3 views

www.bizjournals.com/...imore-launches-3d-map-app.html

tourist 3D map app

shared by Linlin Mo on 31 Aug 12 - No Cached
  • Ayers Saint Gross used a combination of satellite, GIS and aircraft imaging to create the 3D map, which can be constantly updated as new buildings arise and others are torn down.
  • Ayers Saint Gross is in the process of working with Apple and Android to create smart phone versions of the app, and could not give an estimate of when it would be ready for the public.
  • Not only does it allow tourists to navigate the city, but it also sells the city to potential clients interested in bringing their meetings and events to Baltimore, he said.
  • ...1 more annotation...
  • Potential visitors can search for rooms for conventions, find restaurants near their hotels and see nearby transportation options from the bird’s eye or a street view. Noonan can even create custom virtual tours to showcase local attractions that particular groups might be interested in, allowing new visitors to understand the lay of the land before they’ve set foot on it.
  • Linlin Mo on 31 Aug 12
     
    This article introduce a very nice, brand new 3D application that can help many tourists when they arrive, in Baltimore. As useful as the app may be to tourists, it's pretty sad that they have all these lovely features for one city and nowhere else.We can see that from google map to this 3D map, seems like it is a trend that the companies are developing theapplication of navigating tourists. However, I'm glad that they haven't revealed this app to the App Store or Play Store yet for the public because they need to expand their horizons before they even think to release it to the market. But as long as they improve this app and release to the public, it will be great convenience for the tourists.
  • Michael Anthony on 31 Aug 12
     
    I highlighted the two passages I found to be most interesting in blue. I read that the system will update it's self every 24 hours but I'm wondering if that would include the forecast and traffic conditions. Does this also offer some type of naviagation device weather it be by car or foot? Baltimore, can be a rather rough city at time. I know that it will high light tourist attractions, convention centers, etc. But will it highlight street names and areas that travelers should stay away from?
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