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Dongyun Oh

First Hotel in U.S. to Recycle All Soaps - 0 views

ehotelier.com/...item.php

hotel

shared by Dongyun Oh on 06 Feb 13 - No Cached
  • Dongyun Oh on 06 Feb 13
     
    Laguna Beach welcomes more than 6 million visitors annually to its sandy shores. Now visitors who stay in the beachside city's 22 hotels and lodging establishments will be inadvertent participants in a citywide effort to recycle all of the soaps, shampoos, hair conditioners, lotions and bath gels that are left over after a night's stay. Starting Monday, Laguna Beach becomes the first city in the nation to have all of its hotel properties with more than 20 rooms participate in Clean the World -- a Florida-based nonprofit that provides recycled hotel soaps and hygiene products to those in need. Montage Laguna Beach, Pacific Edge Hotel and Best Western Laguna Brisas are among the 18 participating hotels, along with four of the city's six bed and breakfasts, for a total of 1,229 rooms. In an average year, with an estimated 75% occupancy rate, Laguna Beach hotels generate 336,000 bars of soap and a slightly lesser number of shampoo, conditioner, bath gel and lotion bottles, all of which were previously thrown in the trash. Working with Clean the World, those hygiene products will be reclaimed by the housekeeping staff and set aside in a separate receptacle to be shipped to a Las Vegas processing facility. The bars of soap are cleaned of hair and paper, sterilized, ground into pellets and pressed into new bars of soap that are distributed to non-governmental organizations in 45 countries that do not have ready access to soap. The bottled amenities are likewise reclaimed. If they're full, the bottles' exteriors are sterilized and redistributed to homeless shelters and soup kitchens inside the U.S. If the bottles are 25% empty, the plastic is recycled or potentially upcycled for use in other products. Founded in 2009, Clean the World has 1,200 partner hotels across the U.S. and Canada, 126 of which are in California, including the Disneyland Hotel, Disney's Grand Californian Resort & Spa and Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel in Anaheim. Since joining the Clean th
anonymous

Internet Marketing and Distribution Trends Impacting the Hospitality Industry from 2007-2010 | ehotelier.com News Archives - 0 views

ehotelier.com/...item.php

shared by anonymous on 07 Nov 12 - No Cached
  • Not only creating mobile friendly hotel websites, but sending marketing messages via mobile technology is becoming more and more important in hospitality. 1 billion mobile devices were shipped in 2006. The majority of these new devices provide broadband Internet access. The ability to instantly identify a user's geographic location allows marketers to provide a highly personalized marketing message and experience.
  • anonymous on 07 Nov 12
     
    this is a old article but there is a good view for future marketing of hotel. that is mobile marketing. with more and more people using the smartphone, the apps for marketing will be a great way to expand your markets. airilines already use this technology to provide travel alerts concerning weather changes and flight schedules. why hotel can not provide such apps for customer. we can see that ther are several third part apps for booking and resevation already popular. so, how about a hotel creat their own apps for customers for the renovation and promotions. i think it will attrack more people to focus on you and bring more business for the hotel.
rebecca Bonet

Keeping hotel locks safe | Hotel Management - 1 views

www.hotelmanagement.net/...keeping-hotel-locks-safe-18180

shared by rebecca Bonet on 02 Nov 12 - No Cached
  • Our Classic magstripe locks do not store critical security information within individual locks, such as master key information, and any service device must authenticate itself through diversified encryption methods to gain access to the lock software
  • VingCard Elsafe’s locks can also detect tampering and work to alert hotel security staff using the company’s VISIONLINE system. “[The VISIONLINE system] incudes alarms to alert the hotel front desk if someone attempts to tamper with a door lock as well as providing real time alerts to the hotel’s security staff when activity is detected that a card is being misused,”
  • Other alarms include detecting that a door is forced open, left open, or ‘mule tool’ intrusions when a door is opened from the inside handle without an occupant in the room.”
  • ...18 more annotations...
  • VingCard Elsafe provides comprehensive training on the technology for the hotel staff and encourages everyone who will have interaction with the locks to participate
    • TIANJIAN ZHANG
      TIANJIAN ZHANG on 03 Nov 12
       
      Nowadays, locks security is an essential issue in hospitality industry. Actually, most hotels upgrate their locks systems with advanced technology. The role of technology in the security sector is fundamental, but despite the rapid technological progress, one thing has remained constant: the importance of trust. Whether hoteliers wising up to the fact that they've bought what could be called a flawed security system will be willing to trust the supplier of said equipment for a fix.
  • After installation, hotels must work to keep their staff trained and their system upgraded to keep pace with the latest security issues. 
  • As hotel locks become increasingly automated, preventing them from becoming vulnerable to security concerns has become a top priority for hoteliers.
  • As hotel locks become increasingly automated, preventing them from becoming vulnerable to security concerns has become a top priority for hoteliers.
  • When VingCard Elsafe moved the industry towards RFID technology, security was one key driver, and our primary focus was to add additional security to the RFID card to prevent cloning. To that end, VingCard Elsafe hotel locking systems do not work with cards that have no anti-cloning capability.”
  • As hotel locks become increasingly automated, preventing them from becoming vulnerable to security concerns has become a top priority for hoteliers
  • , preventing
  • As hotel locks become increasingly automated, preventing them from becoming vulnerable to security concerns has become a top priority for hoteliers
  • As hotel locks become increasingly automated, preventing them from becoming vulnerable to security
  • “  Our Classic magstripe locks do not store critical security information within individual locks, such as master key information, and any service device must authenticate itself through diversified encryption methods to gain access to the lock software ,” Shea said. “  When VingCard Elsafe moved the industry towards RFID technology, security was one key driver, and our primary focus was to add additional security to the RFID card to prevent cloning. To that end, VingCard Elsafe hotel locking systems do not work with cards that have no anti-cloning capability.”
  • VingCard Elsafe’s locks can also detect tampering and work to alert hotel security staff using the company’s VISIONLINE system. “[The VISIONLINE system] incudes alarms to alert the hotel front desk if someone attempts to tamper with a door lock as well as providing real time alerts to the hotel’s security staff
  • VingCard Elsafe’s locks can also detect tampering and work to alert hotel security staff using the company’s VISIONLINE system. “[The VISIONLINE system] incudes alarms to alert the hotel front desk if someone attempts to tamper with a door lock as well as providing real time alerts to the hotel’s security staff when activity is detected that a card is being misused,”
  • For instance, a ‘wandering intruder alert’ warns hotel security personnel when a card is presented to a number of different doors.  Other alarms include detecting that a door is forced open, left open, or ‘mule tool’ intrusions when a door is opened from the inside handle without an occupant in the room.”
  • After installation, hotels must work to keep their staff trained and their system upgraded to keep pace with the latest security issues.  
  • VingCard Elsafe provides comprehensive training on the technology for the hotel staff and encourages everyone who will have interaction with the locks to participate ,”
  • As with any hotel upgrade, hoteliers understand that renovation and upgrades are a regular part of running their business
  • Looking past RFID solutions for instance, VingCard Elsafe has made our RFID locks compatible with next generation technologies, like Near Field Communications (NFC), providing our customers with an easy upgrade path at reasonable cost.”  
  • Michael Anthony on 02 Nov 12
     
    This article discusses the security issues with room keys. These hotel locks will not open with cards that are read as duplicates or duplicatable. The locking mechanism has been specifically designed to alert the front desk and secuirty departments in the event these locks are tampered with. I'm sure at one point or another we have all experimented with our room key and tried to open other doors. A system like this will prevent activity like that.
  • ...2 more comments...
  • Yingjie Cao on 03 Nov 12
     
    VingCard Elsafe, the global leader in hospitality security and part of the ASSA ABLOY Group, announces that it has phased out the use of brass metal plating and painting in the manufacture of its locking systems, opting instead to use a more eco-friendly process to color stainless steel. VingCard Elsafe has adopted a new method of metal coloration called physical vapor deposition, or PVD, an environmentally friendly process that involves vaporizing an alloy onto stainless steel within a heated vacuum. PVD requires no chemicals and produces no waste or hazardous materials of any kind, resulting in no environmental impact whatsoever. The PVD process has other added benefits, as well. PVD-treated surfaces have high wear resistance for discoloration, and the stainless steel adds enhanced anti-corrosion properties. Besides eliminating the negative environmental effects of the brass plating process, the move by VingCard Elsafe to simplify its lock manufacturing process has had other related green benefits. By doing away with the need for secondary surface treatments of the locks, new product components are now supplied directly from metal stamping to the point of use in the assembly line. This means less shipping and transportation is required for product manufacture, resulting in a diminished carbon footprint.
  • Xue Yan on 03 Nov 12
     
    VingCard Elsafe is a new kind of lock system, which contains RFID technology and is compatible with the Near Field Communications. It has several advantages compared to traditional magstripe locks. First of all, it can add security to the RFID card and prevent cloning, which is much safer than the traditional key card. Another is that it can detect tampering and know when and where staffs use the lock. It can send alert to the front desk. Moreover, the front desk can know when the door is forced open. However, before using the lock system, training program should be provided. So this new kind of lock system brings safety to the guests and to the hotels.
  • rebecca Bonet on 03 Nov 12
     
    This article talk about the issue that hotel are having with their security system lock for guest room. These cards are easy to duplicate. The new system will alert front desk or security if the lock has been tampered with. Other alarms include detecting that a door is forced open 'mule tool' instruction when a door is open from the inside handle without an occupant in the room.
  • Gaby Belardo on 04 Nov 12
     
    This article discusses the current state of hotel lock safety. Monitoring safety has changed as these locks become more automated. The article states that, "Hotel Management corresponded with Tim Shea, president of ASSA ABLOY Hospitality, for ways in which vendors are keeping hotel locks secure." Through VingCard Elsafe's locks, hotel security and safety has increased. VingCard says, "Our Classic magstripe locks do not store critical security information within individual locks, such as master key information, and any service device must authenticate itself through diversified encryption methods to gain access to the lock software." This is just one of the ways the locks increase security. The article also states that the system is cost-effective for hoteliers.
Alejandra Kravets

Norwegian Breakaway to Feature Line's Largest Youth and Teen Areas | ehotelier.com News Archives - 0 views

ehotelier.com/...item.php

shared by Alejandra Kravets on 09 Apr 12 - No Cached
Wei Ding liked it
  • “We know how extremely important it is for families to offer engaging, interactive programs for children and teens in a comfortable, well-equipped environment. Norwegian Breakaway will incorporate our biggest youth facilities with the best youth programming at sea with our new Splash Academy and Entourage programs.”
  • Entourage is Norwegian Breakaway’s high energy, exclusive teen zone for ages 13 through 17, located on Deck 16.
  • Alejandra Kravets on 09 Apr 12
     
    Norwegian Cruise Lines is launching a new ship next year "Norwegian Breakaway." Their main target market will be young adults and teenagers. It features the Splash Academy and Entourage that is a youth area dedicated specifically for three different age groups; teens, babies and toddlers, and a designated space where parents can play with their kids. Teenagers in the evening can enjoy the Entourage area that becomes a teens-only nightclub with a dance floor, large screen television and music, including a video jukebox. Using the latest technology Norwegian e-Youth tablet-based electronic registration allows parents to swipe their keycard and input a password to sign in their children to many activities and programs.
Alejandra Kravets

11 new hotel wonders - CNN.com - 0 views

www.cnn.com/...index.html

shared by Alejandra Kravets on 16 Apr 12 - No Cached
  • The 11 hotels on our list all opened within the last four years, and each is an example of awe-inspiring design in its own right.
  • Yas Viceroy Hotel (Abu Dhabi) This 499-room hotel was the first to be built straddling a Formula 1 racetrack
  • The structure consists of a pair of 12-story towers joined by a sweeping, 700-foot curvilinear skin of glass and steel -- actually 5,800 pivoting, diamond-shaped glass panels that reflect the sky by day and are illuminated up by an LED system at night.
  • Alejandra Kravets on 16 Apr 12
     
    This article emphasizes the importance of building structure in 11 Hotels around the world. How customers are attracted and willing to pay to stay in this unique hotels based on their inspiring architecture. Seven out of the 11 hotels are under $200 a night! The famous Marina Bay Sands in Singapore just opened in 2010, this trio of 55-story towers consists of 2,561 hotel rooms, plus a casino, museum, convention center, waterfront promenade, shops and restaurants. The towers are connected at the top by the cantilevered, two-and-a-half-acre SkyPark, home to gardens, 250 trees, a public observatory and a 492-foot swimming pool -- all perched high in the sky like a fantastical cruise ship forever suspended in midair
paige rosenberg

The Future of Hotel Security - AOL Travel News - 1 views

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

shared by paige rosenberg on 17 Feb 12 - No Cached
  • Technology is opening new doors to hotel safety
  • Yet more card-free security systems are on the way
  • eventually new security measures will become such a part of our everyday lives that they will become the norm.
  • ...12 more annotations...
  • Systems that track the other qualities that make each human unique are in development as well.
  • here 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,
  • new thing is contact-less Smartcards and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) cards that need just be waved to allow room access.
  • Kimpton's 190-room Nine Zero Hotel in Boston was the first hotel to install a biometric iris scanner back in 2004
  • 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
  • "In addition to Radio Frequency Identification, there are also systems that use a smartphone, such as an iPhone,"
  • When a guest checks into a hotel and provides their phone number, they get an encrypted sound code via text message
  • 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
  • 1,200 rooms worth of luggage in transit, the system makes it a lot easier to find lost or misdirected bags.
  • Returning guests will be recognized and greeted by nam
  • "Hospitality all over the world has become more aware of past vulnerabilities that they might have had and have closed these holes by more in-depth training and awareness of guests and staff," he says. "In today's society, all travelers are becoming interdependent on each other for safety and security."
  • Fang Shu on 17 Feb 12
     
    This article talks about the future trend of the hospitality security, which is technology is opening new doors to hotel safety.  The author introduces some different technologies such as Contact-less Smartcards and RFID that hotels like New York's Plaza Hotel are currently using. Finger print or cellphone wipe technology is also used instead of card, which should be more safe. Some hotels even use video-capture systems to make sure the security is perfect. After introducing these technologies, the author also talks about the privacy issues. Because some customers are not willing to be on cameras. However, though some of them are concerning about this issue, an expert predicts that new security measures will eventually become such a part of everyone's everyday lives that he or she will become the norm. All in all, this article gives us the trend that more and more technologies will be used for hotel security in the future.
  • ...7 more comments...
  • Melissa Krajewski on 17 Feb 12
     
    I think PR representatives should address the privacy controversy surrounding radio frequency identification technology with a safety campaign. This may help consumers realize that they are not in the privacy of their own home when they are in the hallways of hotels and cruise ships and the cameras/tracking could help protect them. As long as the data collected is not misused these technologies will continue to be present in these locations.
  • Mary White on 17 Feb 12
     
    It's pretty important for the hospitality industry to present these new technologies as wonderful security measures. People could be put off by knowing they have to swipe their finger to get into a bathroom. The success of these technologies depends on effective marketing and proven security measures that ensure collected information about a traveller will not be used in unethical ways.
  • YONGHE FAN on 18 Feb 12
     
    Interesting article it is. Security is always the big issue for hospitality. I would like to stay in a hotel that is using finger print as the key card of the hotel because i believe that is much safer than cards that anybody can access my room by using the card.
  • Carolina Alfonso on 26 Mar 12
     
    In this article all of the new trends for hotel security are described and examples of where they are being implemented are given. Thanks to technological innovations hotel safety is heading into a whole different level. Now key cards are being change to more sophisticated ones that need just to be waved to open a room door. In the near future it is expected for these cards to be used as a payment method and to check-in and check-out. In the U.S biometrics technology is starting to be used by a small number of properties not only for guests to access their rooms but for employees. Facial recognition systems with the ability of tracking guests and employees are also being implemented. This system helps to improves customer service as it helps to really understand guest's preferences, as enormous amount of information can be extracted as they are constantly being monitored. Other technologies are also being developed. The most amazing ones are the systems that track other unique human characteristics as the way a person walks or it's DNA.
  • Jingjing Zhu on 30 Mar 12
     
    The technology of hotel changes very fast, such as swipe of a cellphone or print of a finger, or the contact cards that need just be waved to allow room access. It is 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. If customers lost their cards on cruise, the radio frequency identification and smartphone will provide customers their code via text message, so they can play back the code to unlock your room door. But more card free security systems are on the way. If you want to get into your room at New York's SoHo Loft , you are going to have to lift a finger. The Nine Zero Hotel in Boston us the technology to make the property safer all round ,that means non-staff members and intruders can not access the property. Systems that track the other qualities that make each human unique in development as well. The Houston's largest hotel has a facial recognition system that can identify and track guests and an annual $16 million payroll ,the system offers benefits such as employee time theft monitoring and prevention for the hotel. But with 1200 rooms worth of luggage in transit the system makes it a lot easier to find lost or misdirected bags The Wolfe feels that in addition to the biometrics and high-tech methods currently being deployed ,one of the greatest security measures of late is actually low tech.
  • Te Gu on 30 Mar 12
     
    The full name of RFID is radio-frequency identification. RFID is the use of a wireless non-contact system that uses radio-frequency electromagnetic fields to transfer data from a tag attached to an object, for the purposes of automatic identification and tracking. Some tags require no battery and are powered by the electromagnetic fields used to read them. Others use a local power source and emit radio waves (electromagnetic radiation at radio frequencies). The tag contains electronically stored information which can be read from up to several metres (yards) away. Now RFID in hospitality industry as a tool is used for improving service quality, customer satisfaction, market share, and profitability. As the new technology apply into hotel security, the hotels change their ways in the blink of an eye, or the swipe of a cell phone, 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 high level and some of the luxury hotels begin to use RFID system. Usually customers will worry about lose the card of hotel. Then they can not open the door and even need to pay extra money to buy a new card. But now security systems in some hotels do away with cards altogether. Because of RFID system, customers can use the iPhone connect with the system. When a guest checks into a hotel and provides their phone number, they get an encrypted sound code via text message. Guests can play back the code to unlock your room door.
  • liang qian on 31 Mar 12
     
    i think there are some factors to consider. Customer Service - Many opportunities for "great" customer service are lost if guest and employee interaction is diminished. In many cases, the front desk staff give the first impression that a guest experiences. This first "experience" can be crucial for referring the guest to other property amenities, i.e. spa, restaurants, lounge, pool, attractions, etc. Often, the front desk staff are acting as the concierge and resolvers of guest issues.
  • katya zelinskaya on 01 Apr 12
     
    this article talks about new technology that is being implemented throughout out US and the world. Old key cards are now going to be replaced with even older standard keys or the radio frequency identification card that can be waived in front of the door to gain access. Also, there is a technology that will sent an encrypted sound text to guest;s cell phone, which when played back will open the door.  It talks about technology that tracks all employees, guests and their luggage.  There are several concerned that travelers have about their privacy, but article stated that it all depends on the type of the traveler.  Also, the face recognition technology used in Houston's largest hotel remembers guests names and when they return, guests are greeted by name.  Article concludes that even with all this technology, the best security is provided through interdependence of travelers and employees.  
  • paige rosenberg on 04 Aug 12
     
    Technology in the hotel travel and tourism industry will be changing drastically in the near future, from the swipe of a cell phone, print of a finger, facial recognition, iris scanners, security is going to be taken to the next level. the plastic key cards will soon no longer exist. Radio frequency I'd cards are the new thing, where guest will use this for preferences for everything, from charging things to your room, preference of floor type to pillow choice, chick in and out etc. systems that track the other qualities of a person instead of using a key or card are in development as well. There are research going on how to open the door and. Lose wi just the persons walk and movements. Some people think these new security technologies are awesome, while some think they are not, people dont want to be watched 24/7while on vacation they just want to enjoy there stay. But in today's society all travelers are becoming interdependent on each other for safety and security.
Marcia Brown-Kelly

Why your IT project may be riskier than you think - 0 views

hbr.org/...1

technology

shared by Marcia Brown-Kelly on 17 Feb 12 - No Cached
  • Marcia Brown-Kelly on 17 Feb 12
     
    This article is focussed on the risk involved if the proper impact study is not undertaken prior to implementation of extensive IT projects. Several multinational companies were referenced in the article, highlighting failures with smooth implementation resulting in the loss of millions and sometimes billions. Below is a summary of some companies referenced in article and the impact of IT implementation gone wrong: 1. Levi Strauss: In 2003 Levi Strauss examined its technological capabilities and concluded that its systems were inadequate for its multi-national corporation operation within 110 countries. A budget of US$5 million was created for a system upgrade. Many challenges along the way resulted in the inability to sufficiently report financials resulted in three distribution canters in the USA closing for a week. As a result of this, the company lost US$200 million and the termination of the chief information officer in 2008. 2. Hong Kong Airport: IT problems resulting in glitches in flight information system and database for tracking cargo shipment resulted in a US$600 million loss between 1998 and 1999. 3. Hershey: About 10 years ago Hershey wanted to implement a new order taking system. Problems with implementation resulted in the inability of the company shipping US$100 million worth of candy in time for Halloween thus impacting the company's bottom-line of an 18.6% loss in earnings during the quarter. 4. Kmart: in 2000 Kmart embarked on aUS$1.4 billon IT modernization project. In the midst of the project Kmart discovered that the project had too many customized application which would result in an exorbitant maintenance costs. An additional US$600m was spent on integrating a supply chain management system. Failure of this project led to bankruptcy filing by Kmart in 2002. This resulted in the closure of 600 stores and the loss of over 60,000 jobs in the USA. 5. Auto windshield (UK): Auto windshield was considered to be the second largest auto glass c
Alejandra Kravets

Water Purification - EcoTex™ Laundry - 0 views

www.cwtozone.com/index.php

shared by Alejandra Kravets on 18 Feb 12 - No Cached
  • EcoTex™ systems are engineered specifically for the laundry industry with user-friendly controls and diagnostic panels that can be adjusted to meet diverse laundry requirements. These panels monitor and regulate oxygen flow, oxygen pressure and ozone output from generators that feature glass-dielectric corona discharge reaction chambers.
  • Alejandra Kravets on 18 Feb 12
     
    The EcoTex Advanced Laundry Oxidation System enables to use the power of Ozone (03) and Oxygen (O2) to save money and improve in commercial laundries as well as detergent and water savings. This is great for hotels, spas, cruise ships, etc. Use of chemicals and hot water will be replaced with cold-water programs that use the power of ozone for disinfection and detergent activation.
Nelson Placa

Hackers to Open Hotel Rooms in Seconds. - 1 views

www.diigo.com/nelsplaca

shared by Nelson Placa on 22 Aug 12 - No Cached
  • The company’s response to that epic security bug has two parts–a quick fix,  and a more rigorous one, both of which it plans to make available by the end of  August: First, it’s issuing caps that cover the data port Brocious’s hack  exploited, which can only be removed by opening the lock’s case. To further  stymie hackers who would try to open the locks and remove that cap, it’s also  sending customers new, more obscure Torx screws to replace those on the cases of  installed locks.  The second fix is more substantial: Onity will offer its customers new  circuit boards and firmware that ostensibly fix the problems Brocious  demonstrated–But Onity is asking owners of some models of its locks of some to  pay a “nominal fee” for the fix, while offering others “special pricing  programs” to cover the cost of replacing components. It’s also asking its  customers to cover the shipping and labor costs of making hardware changes to  the millions of locks worldwide.
  • Nelson Placa on 22 Aug 12
     
    On August 17th, 2012 Forbes Magazine wrote about Onity's security breach with hotels room doors that affected over 4 million hotel rooms across the globe. During a security conference, Cody Brocious, a program developer showed how simply he could insert a device into the data port to access hotel rooms. The cost of this device cost him $50 to build. The company responded to the security issues with a two part resolution. To avoid hackers from accessing the data so easily, Onity will be issuing the hotels new caps that will cover the data case on the doors. Onity is also protecting the equipment with obscure torx screws that will enable the hackers from accessing the panel. The second fix is more costly and challenging for Onity. The company has created a new circuit board and firmware that allegedly fix the security issue. However, Onity is asking hotel owners to pay a nominal fee to help with the fix. Onity could face many financial hurtle through the recall of the 4 million door locks that need to be replaced. The security and safety of many travelers are at risk if this issue is not resolved. Companies such as Marriott International, Starwood Hotels and Hilton utilize Onity's key system across the globe (http://en.onity.com/companyprofile/Pages/Hotel-Resort-Worldwide-References.aspx). These companies won't be affected by the cost associated with the fix; however the small and independently owned and operated hotels will be affected. The question Brocious wrote on his blog and I also ask myself; how many hotels will refrain from properly fixing the issue? Are the major corporations such as Marriott and Starwood given each hotel a deadline to complete such project? Since neither company owns the properly, they simply operate the hotel, how much money and how quickly are owner willing to get this issue resolved?
Hanqing Yang

Taking Network Security to the Cloud - 1 views

hospitalitytechnology.edgl.com/...ork-Security-to-the-Cloud79643

shared by Hanqing Yang on 06 Sep 12 - No Cached
  • The biggest threat to network security at the hotel property level isn’t a lack of technology – it is the lack of resources to manage it.  A strong network security solution should combine cloud-based security configuration with plug and play installation of a firewall and IPS appliances.
  • The impact of a mass security approach is significant to hotel network operations. It could eliminate the need for on-site IT resources to configure and deploy security appliances. It could also provide much-needed network visibility across an entire portfolio of properties. Lastly, it would be instrumental in expediting large-scale security deployments and updates.
  • The challenge is that many hotels lack the IT resources to adequately stay on top of security.
  • ...3 more annotations...
  • They expect ironclad security that protects their entire “online” experience in the hotel, from online booking and iPad-enabled check-in to the wireless connectivity in their rooms.
  • The biggest threat to network security at the hotel property level isn’t a lack of technology – it is the lack of resources to manage it.
  • Ideally the firewall or IPS device should be shipped directly to the property where anyone (e.g. GM) can simply plug the device into the network
  • Yookyung Kim on 06 Sep 12
     
    Today's travelers expect a strong network security. The challenge is that many hotels lack the IT resources because of budget. As a result, IT functions are limited to making sure security patches are up to date and services are running rather than proactively identifying security threats and preventing. This article introduces cloud-based security system as a solution. With the network security system, IT headquarters can monitor and manage the entire network. Also, hotels can save the cost for on-site IT resources and security appliances. It was interesting that cloud-based security is a solution for network security when there are many opinions that cloud computing is not safe. 
  • wei xie on 05 Nov 12
     
    This article talks about the limitation of hotel network security issue, then introduce one solution to it. First of all, it mentions since the usage of Internet is growing big more than ever, customers has more attention and requirement on Network Security. Actually, staff of IT department spend most of their time on updating system and other mid-level support, while they should spend more time on proactively identifying security threats and preventing attacks. This happens due to finance and human source constraints. Lucky for us, there is already one effective solution, keyword, cloud computing. Buy applying cloud computing, IT staff only need set up firewall, configure security system on headquarter. After then configuration is done, they send out these IPS device to branch companies. The security system will automatically update through these devices, no more traveling between properties.
  • Hanqing Yang on 28 May 13
     
    While many hotels right now are keeping and tracking down their valued customers' information, lots of those hotels are facing security problems also. Customers expect ironclad security that protects their entire "online" experience in the hotel, from online booking and iPad-enabled check-in to the wireless connectivity in their rooms. In today's cyber threat environment, that makes the hospitality industry a desirable and lucrative target for attacks. This article mainly talked about how to strength hotel network security.It suggested that a strong network security solution should combine cloud-based security configuration with plug and play installation of a firewall and IPS appliances. Which can be described as Taking Network Security to the Cloud.The IPS device will automatically contact and authenticate to the installation cloud, retrieve its configuration, and then reboot into the hotel's network ready to protect.
Te Gu

RFID Pays Way, Opens Doors At Resort - - - Informationweek - 0 views

www.informationweek.com/...183701989

Hotel tech travel

shared by Te Gu on 27 Jan 12 - No Cached
  • Te Gu on 27 Jan 12
     
    Radio frequency identification (RFID) is an advanced technology. It is the use of a wireless non-contact radio system to transfer data from a tag attached to an object, for the purposes of automatic identification and tracking. Tags do not need battery and they used radio waves to read them. The tag has electronically stored information, so it can use far distance. Unlike a bar code, the tag is not as same as bar code. Line of sight of the reader is not necessary. Radio frequency identification is used in different area. A lot of entertainment use tags as tickets. Some theme parks used tags for gaming, eating and lodging. I think in the future the hospitality industry really needs this technology. More and more new program join in hotel such as rock climbing, spa, casino and so on. These different programs need convenient tickets for guests. Because of this technology used in hotel, the ID card will not just for opening the door. It will include many functions. And the guests do not need any other card or cash in hotel.
  • Gyujin Chae on 28 Jan 12
     
    This is an informative article on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. I found an article talks about RFID in cruise ship last week and got impressed with the advancement of technology in hospitality industry. Hopefully, we will see many hospitality properties equipped with RFID soon. This technology just reminds me of Korean style sauna called "Jjimjil bang" and many of the saunas in Korea are equipped with RFID. A wristband with a sensor inside is given to people when they chenk in and people just need to wear the wristband to pay in the sauna.
gaby bestulich

Event Planning - Technology Solutions - 1 views

www.successfulmeetings.com/...nt-Planners-Can-t-Live-Without

technology event planning

shared by gaby bestulich on 01 Mar 12 - No Cached
YUNTING CHEN liked it
  • Marcia Brown-Kelly on 01 Mar 12
     
    The article highlighted the five top technologies that are quite effective and beneficial for events: 1. Smart phones: Smart phones have the ability to look up suppliers when on the move, for example the ability to respond to emails as well as monitor and respond to the social media. Another benefit is the ability for to do list and scheduled to be created. This is very critical in the time management of events. 2. Saas Cloud Application (software as a service): The advantage is to have access form any web enabled device. This will reduce printing cost and provide the ability to customize reports. Meeting Planners can use Saas to link event management system with customer relationship systems eg. Saleforce. This allows efficient data transfer to both speakers and attendees. 3. Virtual Events: Webiners like gotomeeting.com give participants the ability to attend meetings from multiple locations. This can be save time and money. The only drawback in the personal interaction however, for quick group meetings and presentations this can be quite convenient. 4. Social Media and Viral Marketing: One out of every three persons spend three or more hours on-line per day. The sharing of events though social media sites is highly beneficial for both planners and attendees. Smart planners get participants to market to people within their network. 5. Ipads and Tablets: No more big boxes of binders to ship home form a conference. This means huge saving for bit planners and attendees. Access for information can be controlled at registration point. Information is easily transferred to ones device
  • ...2 more comments...
  • liang qian on 13 Apr 12
     
    With more and more people adopting smartphones, ipads and tablets, event planners should look into purchasing a mobile event app for their attendees to use at their event. This not only reduces paper waste, it also reduces the high costs involved in printing event guides and brochures for the event. It is essentially a virtual event guide that's available in the palm of the attendee's hands.EventMobi actually offers an interactive mobile event app for conferences and tradeshows. They allow event planners to fully customize and manage their content at an affordable price
  • Ligia Elizondo on 14 Apr 12
     
    With this technology event planners can work more efficiently and provide great options for their clients. In addtion event palnners can cut expenses while taking advantage of technology and improve their communication within their suppliers and clients.
  • Melissa Krajewski on 14 Apr 12
     
    I agree every event planner I met at SOBEWFF was on their Ipad 24/7- you sort of feel out of the loop without one. However while observing the benefits of new technology, increased response rates and efficiency, there were still issues that required a phone call rather than an e-mail. In the planning stage this technology is all very helpful but the day of personal interaction is required. Also as far as CRM event planners are still very hands on in terms of making their presence known through face-to-face interactions. The industry still relies heavily on personal relationships.
  • gaby bestulich on 16 Apr 12
     
    This article talks about the 5 most important tools that an event planner needs to use. 1.Smart phones- this one is an easy one. We all know how important our smart phones are to us. Smart phones allow us to have so many different applications at our fingertips. 2.SaaS cloud applications-"software as a service" these applications have opened up a new way to view things in the event planning industry. These applications allow the planners to use their ipads and tablets to allow them to connect with other applications like salesforce, to deal with customers in an easy manner. 3.Virtual events-these events like "webinars and live feed "have become popular it gives viewers the sense of being at the event. Webinars are also very popular because it allows planners to get more people to "be" at the event for a lower cost. 4.Social Media- because sites like Facebook and Twitter have become so popular it makes sense that this would be important to events because people are often commenting of places they have been to. 5.iPads and Tablets-because they add a sense of simplicity and organization to the madness that is party planning
anonymous

Eco-Travel Might Be Cool With Floating Resort | Gadling.com - 0 views

www.gadling.com/...t-be-cool-with-floating-resort

eco-travel solar travel

shared by anonymous on 09 Jun 12 - No Cached
  • In the future, eco-travelers may have a green cruise option in the Solar Floating Resort (SFR) concept. Powered entirely by solar photovoltaic panels that cover it like a skin, this sleek boat/resort/luxury submarine is just the sort of place Italian industrial designer Michele Puzzolante imagines. "Solar energy technologies such as photovoltaic panels could provide a third of the world's energy by 2060 if politicians commit to limiting global warming," says Puzzolante on her Solar Floating Resort website. Puzzolante's SFR relies entirely on non-polluting solar power and uses modular manufacturing techniques currently being used in the naval and automobile industries, kind of like LEGO pieces.
  • anonymous on 09 Jun 12
     
    Designed by Michele Puzzolante, the floating resort touts to be eco-friendly, self-sustaining and non-polluting. It will harness solar energy for power and use modular manufacturing methods as a way of building the resort more efficiently. I whole-heartedly agree with the theory of the floating resort as an alternative to the travel carbon footprint, but do not believe this particular model is going to make a huge difference. It is targeted toward the luxury market, only holds 6 people in the resort, and does not explain the full effects its presence will have on the ocean.
Patrick Montesano

Food trucks becoming upwardly mobile | Nation's Restaurant News - 0 views

nrn.com/upwardly-mobile

shared by Patrick Montesano on 19 Jun 12 - No Cached
  • Such innovations are aimed at a food-truck sector largely populated by small entrepreneurs with good reasons to embrace technology but little means to afford it.
  • To make mobile management technology more accessible to truck operators, Mobi Munch recently incorporated the centrally hosted Micros Simphony point-of-sale system into its food-truck technology suite.
  • The system provides detailed reporting and business intelligence to operators and enables online credit authorization via the 4G/3G network. Because it is centrally hosted, stored data is never at risk even in the event of hardware failure on the truck. 29
  • ...3 more annotations...
  • The Simphony platform can be preloaded with tax information for all jurisdictions that trucks visit.
  • At the National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show in Chicago recently, Mobi Munch showed off the LudoTruck, one of 28Los Angeles’ well-known mobile eateries, equipped with the 28Micros Workstation 5 running Micros Simphony, a cash drawer, thermal printer, SunTronic 42-inch high-brightness LCD and DT610 wireless tablet. The LCD displays video, static image marketing and streaming entertainment media. The Micros hardware, also used in demanding environments like cruise ships and trains, is free of moving parts apt to fail, like hard drives and fans, Soulakis said. 29
  • is testing a new POS system running on iPads in a few trucks, said co-owner Josh Hiller. In addition to handling sales, it manages inventory and staff scheduling for a price of about $2,500, he said.
  • Patrick Montesano on 19 Jun 12
     
    Mobi Munch is an LA-based company that designs and builds food trucks. They have recently begun adapting and implementing digital age systems for their clients.  Among the innovations are POS systems built to survive the stresses of heavy transit, GPS systems for reporting of truck locations, and sophisticated video displays for customers. The Micros Simphony POS is now part of its food truck technology suite. Perhaps the most important upgrade is credit card authorization via the 4G/3G network because for many the norm was handwritten tickets.
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.
anonymous

17 Things You Didn't Know About Ecommerce - 0 views

mashable.com/...ecommerce-statistics

shared by anonymous on 10 Sep 15 - No Cached
  • 17 Things You Didn't Know About Ecommerce
  • Online shoppers can buy cars, clothes and millions of other things with the click of a button and figurative swipe of a credit card. In fact, U.S. consumers spend $1,200-$1,300 per year online, but that number will increase by 44%, to $1,738, by 2016. In that year, ecommerce sales are expected to hit $327 billion.
  • 1. By connecting a modified domestic television with a phone line, Michael Aldrich invented online shopping in 1979.
  • ...8 more annotations...
  • 2. Although Amazon launched in 1995, the first yearly profit wasn't until 2003, and as of June 2012, the average order value was $47.31.
  • 4. Netflix wasn't the first online DVD subscription service — Blockbuster announced Blockbuster.com in 2004, but it's unclear whether services such as Netflix and Redbox led to its ultimate bankruptcy.
  • 6. Zappos' referrals from social media per order yield $0.75 from Pinterest, $2.08 from Facebook and $33.66 from Twitter.
  • 7. Approximately 46% of online users count on social media when making a purchase decision
  • 9. In 2010, Groupon turned down Google's $6 billion offer and became an IPO the following year.
  • 11. India is home to the fastest growing ecommerce market, and France is home to the slowest ecommerce growth.
  • From 2011 to 2016, 15% more people will shop online, taking the number to 192 million in the U.S.
  • 17. Analysts say that an explosion in the mobile payments market is just around the corner.
  • anonymous on 10 Sep 15
     
    Dear friends, i thought that this might be interesting for you to know. Did you know that our favorite Netflix wasn't the first online DVD subscription service? It was a Blockbuster . com :) And the fact that people will mostly shop online? 192 million in the USA! (I' honestly like shopping outside, so this way i can smell, touch, and try; although eBay is doing pretty good job by selling cheap Chinese stuff and having a free shipping. You can not even return the package , because it's 3 times more expensive to return than the original cost! ) What do you think? Thanks
avila031

The depressing truth about e-waste: 10 things to know - TechRepublic - 0 views

www.techrepublic.com/...bout-e-waste-10-things-to-know

technology waste pollution solution recycle trade in

shared by avila031 on 20 Sep 18 - No Cached
  • What is surprising, however, is how little the public knows about e-waste and how to properly dispose of electronics.
  • Electronic waste is a globalized business, and about 70% to 80% of it is shipped to landfills in many developing nations,
  • under-regulated environments.
  • ...5 more annotations...
  • In 2012, the US generated more than 9 million tons of e-waste, which was a huge jump from its 2 million tons in 2005. According to the EPA, 141 million mobile devices were ready for end-of-life management in 2008, but they made up less than 1% of discarded electronics. Of the electronic waste the US generated, only 25% was recycled. The other 75% was sent to landfills in the US or abroad.
  • United Nations' Solving the E-Waste Problem (StEP) Initiative,
  • harmful elements include:Lead, which is in most electronic equipmentBeryllium, a lightweight metal in many electronics Mercury, in many lighting displays Polyvinyl chloride, often used for cabling in circuit board
  • The Responsible Electronics Recycling Act of 2013, which would make it illegal for the US to send toxic e-waste to other nations was never passed. The Senate introduced the same one in March 2014, but it still hasn't passed.
  • Apple unveiled a new trade-in program for iPhones
  • avila031 on 20 Sep 18
     
    This article focuses on the electronic waste epidemic that is occurring all around the globe. Because so many people are clueless on the subject they have listed out the 10 basic things you should know on the subject. 1. Is everything that makes up electronic waste which is just about everything you use and everything in your home including fridges, washing machines, ect. 2. It explains where all of it goes, even though we think it may be getting disposed of properly about 80% is sent to developing nations. 3. It explains that this is extremely dangerous as it has harmful elements that can even cause death when not handled properly. 4. It has the potential to be used again or even made into new things like jewelry. 5. There are trust worthy places you can take your old electronics such as e-Stewards. 6. Ways to avoid giving your old electronics to the wrong person. 7. The reason this is happening is because there really isn't any laws to prevent it. 8. Thankfully now companies are starting to implement trade in programs. 9. China is truly suffering from this problem. 10. Shows just how little people know about E-waste.
Yueyu Peng

Homeboy Electronics Recycling: Second chance for electronics, ex-cons - 0 views

www.usatoday.com/...1305955002

shared by Yueyu Peng on 18 Sep 18 - No Cached
  • What is that mission? To offer second chances to people, and electronics, that have been discarded by society.
  • Homeboy Electronics Recycling moved into a new 6,000 square foot facility four days after the fire and now employs 18 people who are overcoming life setbacks that include drug addiction, homelessness and incarceration.
  • "People do bad things and we tell them to serve the punishment, but after we never forgive them," Stokes said. "We never let them back into the economy. It's not very fair.”
  • ...2 more annotations...
  • The idea for a de-manufacturing business was birthed from a chance meeting with an electronics recycler in Indiana who was hiring people fresh from prison. Stokes decided to introduce that concept to Los Angeles. 
  • Her business has since grown from a company that just breaks apart and recycles old computers, phones and radios to one that juggles data destruction from hard drives and full-service repair. People can also, for a small fee, ship their used personal gadgets to the company for safe disposal. 
  • Yueyu Peng on 18 Sep 18
     
    This article is introducing the Homeboy Electronics Recycling. This business is provide the job opportunities for people who overcoming life setbacks that include drug addiction, homelessness and incarceration. And they do the jobs with recycling of electronics.
natashacastro

Disney is expanding its billion-dollar mobile technology to more parks - Business Insider - 0 views

www.businessinsider.com/echnology-to-more-parks-2015-5

technology mobile hospitality business

shared by natashacastro on 25 Oct 17 - No Cached
  • will expand in some form to other Disney resorts
  • The $1 billion MyMagic+ program features wristbands and a mobile app that let Walt Disney World visitors unlock hotel room doors, pay for food and merchandise, and book dinner reservations or ride times.
  • The parks unit's earnings have climbed over the past few years as Disney invested billions to add Cars Land at the Anaheim resort, expanded Fantasyland at Walt Disney World, built a new cruise ship and made other improvements. For the six months that ended March 28, operating income rose 22 percent to $1.4 billion. It is Disney's second-largest division.
  • ...2 more annotations...
  • Adding new technology is one way Disney aims to keep the business growing. "We will bring variations on MyMagic+ to our parks and other businesses around the world," Staggs said.
  • that adds projections inside the park
  • natashacastro on 25 Oct 17
     
    The article briefly talks about the MyMagic+ wrist bands that Disney introduced a while back! I decided to use this since I had used this example in our discussion board. The articles explains that with Disneys BILLION dollar technology investments income rose 22% to 1.4 billion. The article identifies that Disney's risks in technology is a huge reason why their business continues to grow (and probably wont decline anytime soon- but thats just my opinion). Another huge investment, which might not seem like a lot is the projections newly introduced in the new fireworks show. By introducing projections inside the park, it allows the nightly entertainment to keep up with new characters and keep the show extremely relevant, for example, Anna and Elsa were just added from the Disney movie, "Frozen". By investing in technology like this Disney will always stay relevant and ahead of the game.
imontenegro

A.I. Wants to Know How You Plan a Trip - 0 views

www.nytimes.com/...echnology-travel-planning.html

technology hospitality software business tech travel mobile solution

shared by imontenegro on 07 Mar 19 - No Cached
  • imontenegro on 07 Mar 19
     
    Swiss Cruise company is starting to use a virtual assistant to answer passengers' questions.
  • ...4 more comments...
  • imontenegro on 07 Mar 19
     
    Designers from the boutique design and research firm the Gettys Group can show hotel executives new room layouts using virtual reality goggles, so hotels don't need to build a full-scale model.
  • imontenegro on 07 Mar 19
     
    Travel companies are adopting artificial intelligence and other new technologies to look more deeply into what customers want and to use that information to find faster, cheaper ways to improve their offerings. And as sophisticated research tools become less expensive and more widely available, even start-ups in the industry are using them.
  • imontenegro on 07 Mar 19
     
    Tammy Snow, the director of user experience research at Expedia, said researchers still use product testing, customer surveys and data analysis. "What has shifted significantly," she said, "is how we are combining technology and methodologies."
  • imontenegro on 07 Mar 19
     
    Through user testing, Mr. Wainner said, he found that his customers were most interested in learning about the cheapest flight, the shortest flight and the flight that offered the best combination of saving time and money. Displaying search results based on this information, even though the changes were small, made a big difference in sales, Mr. Wainner said. He noted that the company "didn't have to set up our own internal testing facility" to get that information.
  • imontenegro on 07 Mar 19
     
    MSC Cruises is rolling out a virtual assistant in passenger cabins called Zoe that will answer spoken questions. It can improve its answers with continual research based on the interactions it has. Zoe was programmed to answer the 800 most common questions - queries about excursions or onboard restaurants, for example - and variations of those questions in seven languages. The questions were gleaned from staff members and from data collected from the ships' guest services desks.
  • imontenegro on 07 Mar 19
     
    Professor Susskind said that traditional marketing in the travel industry had evolved: "You run the risk of not being able to compete effectively in the marketplace without these enhanced approaches."
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