Summary
Today the country is in pretty bad shape. With a recession looming, increases of foreclosures, and increasing prices for food and necessities, restaurant and hotel owners must be careful and choose wisely for where they would like to place their next business venture. There is a device on the market called location mapping solutions. They detail the positives and negatives of the area discussing demographics, land quality, and other necessary information for deciding where to build a new restaurant. Sagittarius brands is a new company that is introducing this concept a little further. It can now detail the competition in the area and their pros and cons. It can compare your concept to the existing restaurants in the area. It can also tell you exactly what streets would be perfect for your store as well as where it would be crucial to advertise based on the demographics to be successful. The systems get their information from census and demographics but it is also helpful for a company to already keep information about their customers to make the system more useful. Some information is gathered from existing POS systems. These systems make it easier to locate a place where your business would profit.
Reflection
I think that this system would be really beneficial to narrow down places that you would like to start your business. I don't think this system can be used by itself because you always need that personal touch. However, considering the failure rate for restaurants this will help immensely. Knowing how your advertising campaign should work based on the demographics can help an owner who is lost or new to the game. It is a good base to start the rest of your research, especially because the information is at your fingertips. You don't need to do research for the basic information. I would definitely use a system as a restaurant owner to narrow down options of streets and locations for my restaurant. I wouldn't completely trust the system and would do my own research and make the final decision, but it is definitely a good first step. This will also be interesting to see what happens to companies who do this research and in depth STAR reports. We shall see if this system is more reliable than STAR reports when it comes to competition.
Koroneos, G (2008, April, 22). Get smart about location growth. Hospitality Technology, Retrieved April 30, 2008, from http://www.htmagazine.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=&nm=&type=MultiPublishing&mod=PublishingTitles&mid=3E19674330734FF1BBDA3D67B50C82F1&tier=4&id=FCE766CEF22546BC99FA612A838AA75E
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Monday, April 14, 2008
Hilton's New Concierge is Interactive TV
Summary
Hilton has rolled out a new concierge service that is just beginning to make it big in the hotel industry. They are flat screen TVs! These TVs will be placed around the hotel in public places such as lobbies as well as in guest rooms. They are first being added to a hotel in Beijing for the upcoming Olympic Games. These systems allow for guests to be able to view the hotel and see the amenities being offered. It will show layouts of the rooms for those thinking of holding an event at the hotel. The concierges will be on Samsung's large-format-display 570DX video screen. They will display the hotel's services so that the guest can become more familiar with the hotel quicker. For example they will feature Hilton's Fitness room by Procur, or for business travelers the e-tools and business centers located in the hotel. Hilton wants to have this program out by the Olympics but they want to make sure it is flawless. They want guests to feel comfortable with this technology and have the majority of their possible questions answered. Hilton has said that they do not want to tie the concierge services with check-in or a reservations system just yet. The systems may also help the guest find what sights they are most interested in the nearby area. They have come up with many possible questions that a guest might ask and given informational answers. This technology is called WAVEscape technology and Hilton believes it will be the "wave" of the future.
Response
I think this is a great new system and that Hilton should be proud. I think this system won't be too intrusive for the guest like some mandatory self service check-ins are. Since it is available, but not the only game in town it should be very popular. It gives the guest a chance to see what services are available in the hotel. I know with many stays at hotels I didn't know they had a pool or fitness center until it was too late. This way guests can get the most for their stay. Especially for business travelers they will know what amenities are available and what the business center offers. It will also be great for restaurant recommendations and sights to see in the cities where the hotels are located. I'm sure a regular concierge will still be used because some people do want that human touch when asking for recommendations, but this is a great alternative. It will definitely change the face of sales because when people want to book a room for an event they can now use this touch screen to view the room and its requirements when it comes to maximum capacity and how the room can be laid out. If a potential client ends up talking to a sales or catering manager they will already have some background in a room's capabilities and maybe a probable idea of how they would like their event to take place.
Harler, C (2008, March, 18). Hilton's new concierge is interactive tv. Hospitality Technology, Retrieved April 14, 2008, from http://www.htmagazine.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=&nm=&type=MultiPublishing&mod=PublishingTitles&mid=3E19674330734FF1BBDA3D67B50C82F1&tier=4&id=FCD2F7DAADC8438E926C98968EDAE530
Hilton has rolled out a new concierge service that is just beginning to make it big in the hotel industry. They are flat screen TVs! These TVs will be placed around the hotel in public places such as lobbies as well as in guest rooms. They are first being added to a hotel in Beijing for the upcoming Olympic Games. These systems allow for guests to be able to view the hotel and see the amenities being offered. It will show layouts of the rooms for those thinking of holding an event at the hotel. The concierges will be on Samsung's large-format-display 570DX video screen. They will display the hotel's services so that the guest can become more familiar with the hotel quicker. For example they will feature Hilton's Fitness room by Procur, or for business travelers the e-tools and business centers located in the hotel. Hilton wants to have this program out by the Olympics but they want to make sure it is flawless. They want guests to feel comfortable with this technology and have the majority of their possible questions answered. Hilton has said that they do not want to tie the concierge services with check-in or a reservations system just yet. The systems may also help the guest find what sights they are most interested in the nearby area. They have come up with many possible questions that a guest might ask and given informational answers. This technology is called WAVEscape technology and Hilton believes it will be the "wave" of the future.
Response
I think this is a great new system and that Hilton should be proud. I think this system won't be too intrusive for the guest like some mandatory self service check-ins are. Since it is available, but not the only game in town it should be very popular. It gives the guest a chance to see what services are available in the hotel. I know with many stays at hotels I didn't know they had a pool or fitness center until it was too late. This way guests can get the most for their stay. Especially for business travelers they will know what amenities are available and what the business center offers. It will also be great for restaurant recommendations and sights to see in the cities where the hotels are located. I'm sure a regular concierge will still be used because some people do want that human touch when asking for recommendations, but this is a great alternative. It will definitely change the face of sales because when people want to book a room for an event they can now use this touch screen to view the room and its requirements when it comes to maximum capacity and how the room can be laid out. If a potential client ends up talking to a sales or catering manager they will already have some background in a room's capabilities and maybe a probable idea of how they would like their event to take place.
Harler, C (2008, March, 18). Hilton's new concierge is interactive tv. Hospitality Technology, Retrieved April 14, 2008, from http://www.htmagazine.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=&nm=&type=MultiPublishing&mod=PublishingTitles&mid=3E19674330734FF1BBDA3D67B50C82F1&tier=4&id=FCD2F7DAADC8438E926C98968EDAE530
Thursday, March 27, 2008
High Definition Demystified
Summary
For a long time, televisions were seen as a special amenity, and just to have one in a hotel room would be quite exciting. Today the rate of television change has increased dramatically because once a new model comes out hotels jump to buy the newest version. Some hotel chain CEOs have said that guests view the model of the television as an indicator of how nice the hotel room is. High Definition (HD) TVs have dropped in price to under one thousand dollars, but many hotels are hesitant to make the move. HD televisions come in two different styles: liquid crystal (LCD) and plasma display. They both offer similar results a clear picture with bright colors but LCD is the more proven and less expensive version. High definition televisions also have great resolution and when buying a new tv you must be aware of the resolution number as well as the style of television. The maximum resolution is 1080p/i, but this is only beneficial with televisions under 35 inches. Operators can save a few dollars by purchasing a 720p/i system. The government has even stepped in with the upgrade to high definition televisions. They have made a ruling that you must change the tvs by Februrary 2009 or you will lose your television signal.
Reflection
The article was interesting because it was trying to help hotel owners know what their options are for high definition television, and it showed that in a very black and white way (no pun intended). They showed all the qualifications and what would be more beneficial in a number of categories including content, resolution, and the way the HD televisions are made. As for the comment made about guests judging the room based on the television, I know for myself that that is false. I'm sure many others are more judgmental than I am. However, I come from a home that owns a flat screen TV and I know that when going to a hotel I don't expect it to have the same. I suppose for some people who consider a hotel room as an extension of their own house or room that perhaps they hold these judgments. I wasn't aware of the ruling of the government that will force hotels to switch their televisions. I'm not really sure why this decision was made considering so many more important things should be discussed. This article opened my eyes to how the television market tries to trick you into buying a more expensive model that you might not need.
Koroneos, George (2008, 3, 10). High Definition Demystified. Hospitality Technology, Retrieved March 27, 2008, from http://www.htmagazine.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=&nm=&type=MultiPublishing&mod=PublishingTitles&mid=3E19674330734FF1BBDA3D67B50C82F1&tier=4&id=500AC3A9453A4E9583FE0DFF46F64D3B
For a long time, televisions were seen as a special amenity, and just to have one in a hotel room would be quite exciting. Today the rate of television change has increased dramatically because once a new model comes out hotels jump to buy the newest version. Some hotel chain CEOs have said that guests view the model of the television as an indicator of how nice the hotel room is. High Definition (HD) TVs have dropped in price to under one thousand dollars, but many hotels are hesitant to make the move. HD televisions come in two different styles: liquid crystal (LCD) and plasma display. They both offer similar results a clear picture with bright colors but LCD is the more proven and less expensive version. High definition televisions also have great resolution and when buying a new tv you must be aware of the resolution number as well as the style of television. The maximum resolution is 1080p/i, but this is only beneficial with televisions under 35 inches. Operators can save a few dollars by purchasing a 720p/i system. The government has even stepped in with the upgrade to high definition televisions. They have made a ruling that you must change the tvs by Februrary 2009 or you will lose your television signal.
Reflection
The article was interesting because it was trying to help hotel owners know what their options are for high definition television, and it showed that in a very black and white way (no pun intended). They showed all the qualifications and what would be more beneficial in a number of categories including content, resolution, and the way the HD televisions are made. As for the comment made about guests judging the room based on the television, I know for myself that that is false. I'm sure many others are more judgmental than I am. However, I come from a home that owns a flat screen TV and I know that when going to a hotel I don't expect it to have the same. I suppose for some people who consider a hotel room as an extension of their own house or room that perhaps they hold these judgments. I wasn't aware of the ruling of the government that will force hotels to switch their televisions. I'm not really sure why this decision was made considering so many more important things should be discussed. This article opened my eyes to how the television market tries to trick you into buying a more expensive model that you might not need.
Koroneos, George (2008, 3, 10). High Definition Demystified. Hospitality Technology, Retrieved March 27, 2008, from http://www.htmagazine.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=&nm=&type=MultiPublishing&mod=PublishingTitles&mid=3E19674330734FF1BBDA3D67B50C82F1&tier=4&id=500AC3A9453A4E9583FE0DFF46F64D3B
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Hi-Touch Vs. Touch Screen
Summary
In this article, "Hi-Touch vs. Touch Screen" they resume the debate of whether technology will or can replace a human connection in hotel lobbies. They discuss kiosks mainly which make a speedier check-in process for the guest but also does not make for a personal experience. Many esteemed individuals in the hospitality industry are interviewed about and considerations one must think of when thinking of using kiosks in their hotel. Many say that placement of the kiosk is important as well as whether the staff supports it and can help the guest with any technical issues that may arise when using the kiosk. How the technology is introduced also plays a large factor in how front desk agents accept the change. Jim Bina, IT director of Rosen Hotels & Resorts, says "A kiosk in my environment will reduce staff, and just give a guest options." This can be a threat for employees and most professionals agree that you must maintain a welcoming front desk in addition to a kiosk to accommodate all guests. The location of the hotel and the clientèle also become an issue when choosing whether you should have a quick check-in kiosk. Sometimes this idea is perfect for business travelers who are on-the-go but not necessarily for those elderly leisure travelers who are technologically impaired. Hyatt Hotels has created a new quick check-in option that is available through blackberries and online, so when they arrive at the hotel they just have to swipe a credit card at the kiosk and their room keys are dispensed.
Reflection
I thought this article was very interesting in many different ways. Whenever I have been presented this dilemma between hi-touch and touch screen it has been broken down in a very black and white way. Professors say, most people like kiosks as an option except elderly people who tend to be against change especially technological change. This article, I felt showed kiosks in a different way. They discussed its affect on the employees, the guests, and the many issues that have its affect on its acceptance. I agree that kiosks should be presented to the employees as an alternative for guests who are hurried rather than a replacement for their jobs. Its process and inner workings should also be discussed with the employees so if any problems should arise they are well-versed in solving it. I agree with the article that for some people kiosks are a great addition to their stay while some would rather have a personal connection with someone. I had never heard one of the advantages of kiosks to be security in the sense of privacy with the room number and the less handling of credit cards. I hadn't looked at the issue in that light and now see another possible reason for the increase of kiosks.
Carlin, Mary (2/19/2008). Hi touch vs. touch screen. Hospitality Technology, Retrieved 3/9/08, from http://www.htmagazine.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=&nm=&type=MultiPublishing&mod=PublishingTitles&mid=3E19674330734FF1BBDA3D67B50C82F1&tier=4&id=1F14B173AACB4D08A3834FA59A12B66D
In this article, "Hi-Touch vs. Touch Screen" they resume the debate of whether technology will or can replace a human connection in hotel lobbies. They discuss kiosks mainly which make a speedier check-in process for the guest but also does not make for a personal experience. Many esteemed individuals in the hospitality industry are interviewed about and considerations one must think of when thinking of using kiosks in their hotel. Many say that placement of the kiosk is important as well as whether the staff supports it and can help the guest with any technical issues that may arise when using the kiosk. How the technology is introduced also plays a large factor in how front desk agents accept the change. Jim Bina, IT director of Rosen Hotels & Resorts, says "A kiosk in my environment will reduce staff, and just give a guest options." This can be a threat for employees and most professionals agree that you must maintain a welcoming front desk in addition to a kiosk to accommodate all guests. The location of the hotel and the clientèle also become an issue when choosing whether you should have a quick check-in kiosk. Sometimes this idea is perfect for business travelers who are on-the-go but not necessarily for those elderly leisure travelers who are technologically impaired. Hyatt Hotels has created a new quick check-in option that is available through blackberries and online, so when they arrive at the hotel they just have to swipe a credit card at the kiosk and their room keys are dispensed.
Reflection
I thought this article was very interesting in many different ways. Whenever I have been presented this dilemma between hi-touch and touch screen it has been broken down in a very black and white way. Professors say, most people like kiosks as an option except elderly people who tend to be against change especially technological change. This article, I felt showed kiosks in a different way. They discussed its affect on the employees, the guests, and the many issues that have its affect on its acceptance. I agree that kiosks should be presented to the employees as an alternative for guests who are hurried rather than a replacement for their jobs. Its process and inner workings should also be discussed with the employees so if any problems should arise they are well-versed in solving it. I agree with the article that for some people kiosks are a great addition to their stay while some would rather have a personal connection with someone. I had never heard one of the advantages of kiosks to be security in the sense of privacy with the room number and the less handling of credit cards. I hadn't looked at the issue in that light and now see another possible reason for the increase of kiosks.
Carlin, Mary (2/19/2008). Hi touch vs. touch screen. Hospitality Technology, Retrieved 3/9/08, from http://www.htmagazine.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=&nm=&type=MultiPublishing&mod=PublishingTitles&mid=3E19674330734FF1BBDA3D67B50C82F1&tier=4&id=1F14B173AACB4D08A3834FA59A12B66D
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Jumeirah hotels in Dubai
DUBAI: One of the World’s Most Exciting Countries for New Hotel Developments
In this article by Ted Horner and Floor Bleeker, they describe the increasing amount of tourism in the country of Dubai. Dubai is located in the Middle East and is "the commercial hub of the world’s top oil-exporting region" (Horner, Bleeker, 2007). However, Dubai's oil industry is only 3% of their gross domestic product. Tourism is the largest industry in Dubai and is continuing to grow. In the coming years Dubai will support over 60 luxury hotels , 4,000 residential villas not to mention waterhomes, shoreline apartments, water parks, restaurants, marinas, malls, and health spas that are being constructed in the next twelve years. The biggest hotel company that is making an impression on this region is Jumeirah, an international hospitality management company who specializes in luxury hotels. Their two most famous hotels in this region are Burj Al Arab and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. They use technology to satisfy the guest and make their experience as personal as possible. They have a philosophy called StayDifferent that incorporates two systems in the hotel. One is CRM and the other in-room technology. They created a central hub that incorporates information about the guest that comes from PMS systems, their rewards and recognition program, and restaurant reservations system. They want to create as personal an experience as possible and they use this information to determine your favorite type of pillow from their Burj Al Arab pillow menu. Their in-room technology is used in different ways in their different hotels because they want to create a different experience in each. In the Jumeirah Business Bay Hotel, they note your favorite channel on TV and that channel will always come up first when you turn the television on. Their in-room technology is user-friendly and eco-friendly by using motion detectors for lighting and MP3 plug ins to play the guest's music in any room including the bathroom.
I think that this article is fascinating both from a technology standpoint as well as the future of hotels. I have heard a lot about Dubai in passing and their creativity in both restaurant and hotel development. Jumeirah seems to have been a leader in CRM programs and taking these systems to the limit of what they are capable of. I think it is interesting that they have different uses of the in-room technology in their different hotels to create more personal experiences. They don't want guests to have the same experiences with the same "tricks" at all of their hotels. Jumeirah uses the same standards and principles as an umbrella for their personalized service. I think this makes the guests appreciate the individual hotels and how they cater to their target market. They have taken CRM systems to the next level as well. They interface all of their programs with the CRM system so they get as much information as possible about each guest. Even the restaurant systems bring in information including their food preferences. I would be very impressed by a hotel that knew preferences of mine without asking. I'm looking forward to seeing with this company comes up with in the future in the luxury hotels sector.
Horner, T, & Bleeker, F (2007). Dubai: One of the World's Most Exciting Countries for New Hotel Development. Hospitality Upgrade, Fall 2007, Retrieved March 1, 2008, from http://www.hospitalityupgrade.com/_files/File_Articles/HUFall07_DubaiExcitingNewHotelDevelopments_Horner.pdf.
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