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.

Security is extremely important in the hotel industry and not just for guests but for employees too. Travelers are very sensitive to how secure the location and their accommodations are. Prioritizing hotel security has to be a top goal for all management teams. Some easy ways to make sure that hotels are secure is by updating room keys and locks. New lock systems come have integrated a system where the lock can be audited to read all the keys that have been used against that lock. Actively engaging with guests is really important. Although you may not get to know every guest it is good to talk with guests and get to know why they are staying with you. This helps spot any trouble when it comes. Another point I think was extremely important was having a clear emergency response plan. It is so important to not only have a plan but to regularly review, drill and update your plan so that in case of an emergency everyone is protected.

Any dining establishment can now take advantage of the convenience that online orders and takeout orders provide. These integrations present special challenges in keeping orders straight so it's necessary to know how the systems work. Takeout orders are sent directly to the POS. This delivery system improves accuracy. The ease of ordering makes customers happier and with the decrease in error customer satisfaction should increase. POS also present the opportunity for increased sales as the customer spends more time looking at the menu and doesn't feel "judged".

With the growth of OTAs there has been an increase in OTA fees. This does not mean however that hotels should not use OTAs to fill rooms. To optimize a healthy channel mix a hotel must look at certain distribution channel as not every guest is loyal to one brand. This is why avoiding OTAs is not a good idea. The optimal percent of OTA business depends on the hotel. One reason for hotels to pay special attention to direct bookings is that third-parties do not share data with hotels. In the lecture we learned that data means nothing but knowledge is everything. Since third-parties do not share information remarketing these guests is difficult. Additionally, guests who book with OTAs tend to be less loyal, travel less, and spend less.

This article relates to module 1 and how technology will continue to change the hospitality industry allowing guests to personalize their guest room preferences. The article also mentions how hospitality businesses are slow to make changes as they are scared to lose the human touch which was mentioned in the smartender video.