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HITEC DUBAI
Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference
December 5–6, 2018
Dubai, UAE -
Upcoming Event
HITEC EUROPE 2019
Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference
April 10–11, 2019
Palau de Congressos
Palma, Mallorca - Spain -
Upcoming Event
HITEC MINNEAPOLIS
Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference
Minneapolis Convention Center
June 17-20, 2019
HITEC Houston Makes History as HFTP's Highest Attended Event in 65+ Years
HFTP 3h
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is pleased to announce that HITEC Houston broke barriers this week as the highest attended event in the association's history with over 6,650 attendees. Produced yearly by HFTP, Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC) showcases the industry's latest innovations, and provides a top-notch education program for attendees. HITEC Houston took place from June 18-21, 2018 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA.HITEC Houston featured over 120 speakers, including futurist Mike Walsh and data security expert Theresa Payton as the keynote speakers. The daily education sessions addressed trending topics including: data security, IT initiatives, sustainability and CSR, AI, leadership development, blockchain, millennials reshaping the industry and more. The Houston exhibit floor featured 397 exhibitors showcasing the latest in hospitality technology products and services. An impressive 47 registered press members were in attendance covering the event."Thank you to everyone who helped make HITEC Houston a huge success," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "HITEC Houston was not only the highest attended HITEC conference to date, but it was also the highest attended overall conference in HFTP's 65-year history. HFTP looks forward to continuing to serve the hospitality technology community in years to come. See you next year in Minneapolis!"The Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) Houston innovation competition for hospitality startups featured 16 startups, an expert panel of six judges and 16 industry mentors who coached the entrepreneurs before their four-minute pitch. Reply.ai won the E20X Judge's Award grand prize of $5,000 USD, and Beekeeper was chosen by conference attendees - via the HFTP Multi-event app - as the E20X People's Choice Award winner. The HITEC Houston Opening Party, presented by Samsung and HFTP, featured multi-platinum rapper Flo Rida and took place at the famous House of Blues Houston.Three hospitality technology industry leaders were recognized and awarded at HITEC Houston: 2018 HFTP International Hospitality Technology Hall of Fame recipients Tammy Farley and Jing Zhu; and 2018 CHTP of the Year recipient Sean Van Dyke, CHTP. HFTP also hosted its annual HITEC Helps social responsibility project during HITEC Houston, and raised funds for local nonprofit Compudopt - who provides technology access and education to underserved youth.Attendees with access to the HFTP Multi-event app can use it to refer back to the attendee list and exhibitors to follow-up on the event. HITEC Minneapolis is June 17-20 at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota USA. In addition, HFTP has several other coming events. The HFTP Annual Convention is October 24-26 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. And HITEC Europe is April 10-11 at Palau de Congressos in Palma (Mallorca) Spain. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout North America, HFTP expanded HITEC in 2017 with two additional events outside: one in Europe and the other in Dubai. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org.Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###
New Women in Technology Luncheon Announced for HITEC 2019 Minneapolis
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As HITEC Houston wraps up its biggest week, plans for next year's North American event in Minneapolis are already in the works. New to the program is a Women in Technology networking luncheon designed to connect professionals and honor industry accomplishments. HITEC (Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference), produced by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology event and is dedicated to recognizing those guiding the forward path of hospitality technology. The inaugural luncheon will be June 17, 2019 at the Minneapolis Convention Center, and will feature an accomplished business leader speaker. Following the initial luncheon will be additional regional programs throughout 2019."A primary reason that HITEC attendees return year after year is the opportunity to meet with fellow industry professionals to share their ideas and learn from each other," said Frank Wolfe, HFTP CEO. "The addition of the luncheon offers a dedicated opportunity to celebrate the successes of the professional women who have focused their careers to hospitality technology. Hopefully the program will continue in successive years and will be a place to follow the evolution and progress of the industry and the women's careers."HITEC Minneapolis is June 17-20 at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota USA. In addition, HFTP has several other coming events. The HFTP Annual Convention is October 24-26 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. And HITEC Europe is April 10-11 at Palau de Congressos in Palma (Mallorca) Spain. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout North America, HFTP expanded HITEC in 2017 with two additional events outside: one in Europe and the other in Dubai. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org.Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.
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How Travelport Is Embracing Blockchain
skift.com - Travel Services ·10h
Blockchain fever seems to have subsided somewhat in recent months, although big players across the travel industry are still experimenting with the technology.
ONE Newsletter
MANY Sources
Brought to you by HFTP
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Labor, tech among concerns at NYU conference
hotelbusiness.com·Requires Registration 21 June 2018
The NYU International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference is always a reflection of the various issues facing the hospitality industry—and this year was no different. Once again, industry leaders converged at New York Marriott Marquis and, as has been true for a number of years now, most of the comments were fairly positive—but certain topics of concern remain: namely, security, labor, technology and short-term rentals.
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Knowledge is the Key to Hotel Business Intelligence (Facts are Great but Insights Hold the Value)
The Rainmaker Hospitality and Gaming Blog 21 June 2018
A hotel’s competitive edge is shaped by business intelligence (BI). Forrester reports that although 74 percent of businesses want to be “data driven,” only 29 percent are actually successful at transforming analytics into action. All that data that your hotel collects is only valuable if you can translate it into actionable insights that lead to better decisions and drive business growth. To create real value from BI, hotels must focus on specific strategies that close the loop between data collection and knowledge.
blogHITEC Booth 1104
Article by
Larry Mogelonsky
Giving Your Concierge A Digital Upgrade
Hotel Mogel Consulting Limited 21 June 2018
With the modern traveler glued to his or her phone, why would such a guest bother to consult the concierge instead of simply performing a Google search or looking on a resourceful travel website like TripAdvisor or Yelp? With mobile apps capable of offering a similar amount of information about the local area as any single person can, does this not make the concierge obsolete?This topic stems from a grievance that multiple general managers have brought to my attention with no clear answer in sight. The concierge is a core operation for any hotel in the upscale or luxury segments as well as a hallmark of service. Yet, if fewer people come to use it, how will hotels demonstrate their superior worth to guests? Moreover, regardless of what the star or diamond rating might dictate, shouldn't you just replace this waning operation with one that is valued by modern travelers?Just as these online aggregate systems have come to usurp the traditional role of the concierge, the answer is to adapt the concierge by both giving it a technological boost and by expanding the role to include even more of a personal touch. The following are some ideas I've suggested and that may work if you too are suffering from this problem.What I've found applies here is the adage, 'out of sight, out of mind'. Most arriving guests don't even think to ask the concierge because they haven't been educated to know that that is an option. Hence, your challenge is to find ways to better inform your customers about all the bastion of knowledge that is your concierge team and to build a sense of rapport so that people are comfortable in seeking out these team members for anything and everything.As a start, the concierge has typically been seen as a 'passive' service - it's there if guests need it, but they must reach out first. Instead, any PMS can be engineered to send out a pre-arrival email or to ping a manager to give a pre-arrival phone call. While not route these tasks to the concierge desk? In this sense, a member of the concierge team would be assigned to each guest and a tailored note could then be attached with that team member's picture to the pre-arrival email. That way guests know who these individuals are, and it will help to establish a personal connection so guests aren't intimidated when approaching their designated concierge with requests.One other piece of information to include in this initial welcome - electronic or otherwise - is the concierge's cell phone number with some sort of 'text me anytime' phrasing inserted for good measure. While I would always recommend calling over texting for proper rapport building, the latter is far more in line with how the world works nowadays. That is, a guest is more likely to text a request than to phone it in. Obviously, there are some logistical issues with implementing a text-based system such as whether the phones are company-issued or how to redirect messages when that specific team member is off the clock. Regardless of these, any traveler would greatly appreciate having a local insider only a few presses of the thumb away.The next point of contact is when the guest first arrives - something that technology has again helped by allowing a direct sync between the PMS and flight arrival times. If you know roughly when a guest arrives, it wouldn't be too hard to arrange for a concierge to be present at the front desk for an in-person greeting, thereby amplifying the rapport and level of comfort. And if you aren't so lucky to know the exact arrival time, then a front office protocol could be put in place whereby the designated team member is immediately notified by the corresponding front desk clerk who might also set up a time for a quick face-to-face introduction.I note that some hotels in the luxury class are taking advantage of this by having a member of guest services reach out in advance of arrival. But, typically, this is done just 48-72 hours prior to arrival, rather than well in advance offering true service options such as theatre ticket bookings.A third point of contact where the concierge can make his or her mark pertains to welcome or departure gifts. Although slightly less applicable because of the small cost involved, for high-end hotels these are becoming all but mandatory. For welcome gifts, normally these are left in the room with a handwritten note from a manager. Instead, why not have the assigned concierge deliver them to the door a short time after the guest has gotten settled? This 'surprise and delight' tactic might also spark a fun conversation whereby the hotel can learn a bit more about what's needed or wanted for this specific trip, and then make any necessary arrangements. And if departure gifts are given out, consider having the concierge hand it over along with the corresponding front desk clerk.Clearly, there's some work involved with any of these tactics in terms of getting all the protocols in place. However, just as nearly every other operation has had to change in the face of technological influencers, so too must your concierge. My hope is that, with this as a start, your concierge's utility will persist no matter how many mobile apps or review websites come into use for travelers.
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Why Revenue Management and Marketing Must Align
Net Affinity | Conversion Optimisation for Savvy Hoteliers 21 June 2018
Today, every hotelier knows that the modernisation of revenue management and marketing strategies is fundamental. However, what is less known is that to really see a boost in your revenue you must align them. The task of the marketing team is to generate demand through connection with potential guests.
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Tripleseat launches new booking-process features
Hotel Management 21 June 2018
Tripleseat launch of new features specifically designed for hotels to streamline the booking process and increase sales. Tripleseat’s hotel features now include several new key functionalities to the event-management platform including the ability to book group business in one or hundreds of hotels, manage event and guestroom blocks easily, and access a flexible and dynamic sales and customer-relationship-management platform.
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Assistant Pairs with GrayMatter Networks to Replace the Hotel Phone
Roxy 21 June 2018
GrayMatter Networks, (www.graymatternetworks.com) provider of the BrainBox intelligent VoIP system, is integrating with hotel voice platform with Roxy (www.roxydevice.com), the speech enabled device designed specifically for hospitality that provides fully customizable in-room concierge services. This partnership will enable hotels to consolidate their in-room devices and make calls directly through Roxy's voice-activated virtual assistant device.The integration of Roxy with GrayMatter Networks' intelligent voice platform comes following the largest year of growth ever in the smart speaker market. Strategy Analytics reports that in 2017 the smart speaker market grew 300%, and that it is projected to continue growing as more and more consumers integrate these new technologies into their lives. GrayMatter Networks is positioning itself to be able to tap into this market by developing its integration with Roxy, demonstrating GrayMatter Networks' commitment to bringing the best new technology to its users."GrayMatter Networks has always been about using the best tools available to bring hotels the best results. Integrating our network with Roxy's intelligent speech-enabled devices will brings guests and hotels the most positive experience possible today" states David Maayani, GrayMatter Networks CTO."Combining Roxy's intelligent, hotel-specific AI with GrayMatter Networks' voice system will allow hotels and guests to connect with each other more easily and get the information they need faster" states Cam Urban, CEO of Roxy.Roxy provides an easy-to-use web portal which enables hotels to develop their own custom personas representing their brand, information and services. Phone functionality can be added through a software update.About GrayMatter NetworksGrayMatter Networks was born out of an emergency response team during Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Since we solved that telecommunications disaster, we have provided operational support end-to-end engineering and ridiculously smart VoIP solutions to the hospitality, transportation and healthcare industries. With 50+ years of combined IT experience, GrayMatter Networks is the leader in information technology. Make the intelligent decision and put a brain in your network today.
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Nuvola releases Concierge module
Hotel Management 21 June 2018
Nuvola released its newest module, Concierge. It will allow the hotel's concierge team to coordinate and monitor guest itineraries and amenities, allowing for easy-to-manage reservations through Nuvola's integration with Yelp and OpenTable.
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The Key to Agile Success? Focus on Outcomes, not Metrics - SPONSOR CONTENT FROM CA TECHNOLOGIES
harvardbusiness.org 21 June 2018
To be truly competitive in the digital economy, you must be built to change. Companies across the globe are faced with new competitive threats, changing market dynamics, new technology disruption and evolving customer needs, and the pressure is on for companies to be able to sense and respond to those changes and deliver better products and services to customers, faster.
Not your father's ERP
By Nick Price
Hotel companies have been stuck for too long with an information systems architecture conceived well into the last century, and built around a notion of a Property Management System (PMS) at the center of everything that a hotel does or will do, writes NetSys Technology's Nick Price. Building on his ground-breaking article in last year's edition of the Hotel Yearbook, Nick further refines the Hotel OS architecture concept he described in 2017 by revisiting another legacy concept whose time has come: Enterprise Resource Planning.
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Telkonet, Volara create voice-controlled hospitality environments
Hotel Management 21 June 2018
Telkonet has teamed with Volara to offer a hospitality environment in which guests are able to use voice commands to control intelligent in-room devices and platforms to set scenes within their own hotel room. These scenes are able to incorporate one device or many different devices to create the exact environment that a guest requests.
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Assa Abloy Hospitality, OpenKey integrate for keyless entry
Hotel Management 21 June 2018
Assa Abloy Hospitality has integrated its Assa Abloy Hospitality mobile access keyless entry solution with OpenKey. Assa Abloy Hospitality and OpenKey have implemented mobile key-based guest access at multiple properties across the world.
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Omni Hotels adds Sonifi interactive TV system upgrades
Hotel Management 21 June 2018
Omni Hotels & Resorts will offer new interactive TV system upgrades from Sonifi Solutions, bringing a full suite of interactive capabilities to its guests including a seamless streaming experience. Wi-Fi pairing is already installed at Omni Frisco (Texas) Hotel, Omni Louisville (Ky.) Hotel, and Omni Hotel at The Battery Atlanta with plans for installation at 15 more properties by the end of the year.
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"The Direct Booking Summit is a very exciting opportunity"
Triptease Blog 21 June 2018
There's just over a week left until the Direct Booking Summit: Europe. If you haven't secured your tickets yet, you'd better hurry! Head over to the website to check out the agenda and register.
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EazyO App Helps to Deliver Guests' Needs
hotelbusiness.com·Requires Registration 21 June 2018
EazyO is a new mobile app that provides beach and poolside delivery service to hotel and resort guests with the click of a button.
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Food for Love with Menu Personalization
Larry Mogelonsky 21 June 2018
The tech-centric buzz word of the year and what every hotelier is coming to understand as critical for their properties is personalization, both in terms of delivering a better guest experience and driving RevPAR. While we understand the concept, though, integration costs and outdated management protocols can become potential barriers. Hence, when I see an effort at personalization that bypasses these barriers, no matter how small, I get excited.
Article by
Max Chertkov
Are you truly maximizing your revenue on room rates?
Gimmonix Technologies UK 21 June 2018
In the travel industry, as elsewhere, if demand rises, the price does too. The same applies when booking hotels. If there is an increase in queries for a particular hotel, the price will increase. In addition to demand, price fluctuations are also a result of commercial considerations, technical issues, and the many breakage points in the distribution flow that can cause a sold-out error.Interrupted search to book flowMost OTAs work with multiple suppliers, and many suppliers buy inventory from each other. While it is possible to run a live search for each property, often times, stored results are used in order to decrease search times and conserve computing power. This means that when a search is not live and is based on inventory pricing that may have since changed, the seller will get one of three results:Sold-out error = lose the customer permanently and their future bookings.Lower than market price = less margin, or lose money to retain the customer.Higher than market price = less competitive, may lose the sale.Another aspect affecting the seller's ability to offer the most competitive rates, is the variation in supplier response times as well as the seller's own technical capabilities and preferences. What if an OTA sets its search times to 2 seconds in order to provide a good customer experience, and the supplier with the cheapest buy rate has a 5 second response time? Then, the OTA is unable to see best buy rate, and ultimately misses out on additional profit.A new reality?But what if there was a way for OTAs and suppliers to reduce sold-out errors and query all their suppliers? And what if it was also possible to take advantage of the market price fluctuations to increase revenue, all this after the customer books?The search to book flow, until now, has been clearly defined. When a customer requests a booking, the OTA offers him a price from a chosen supplier. When the booking is finalized, the booking is made with the original inventory provider. There may be a way to change this and create a new reality. There may be a way to search for a better buy price, imperceptibly in the background, after the customer booking is made, and to take advantage of price fluctuations to substantially increase revenue. The question is how?Sign up and be the first to find out: Reservation.Works. Coming July 3rd.To learn more, feel free to get in touch, max@gimmonix.com, or visit our website.
Article by
Philip von Ditfurth
Lightning Speed & Why It Matters
apaleo GmbH 21 June 2018
With technology, there is "what it does"--the functionality--and then there's "how it does it," as in how fast, how accurate, what the interface looks like, and so forth. Functionality is that by which we decide we need a technology--a new POS, PMS, CRM--and so the "how it does it" becomes a secondary consideration. The way a technology does what it does gains weight as you move through the evaluation process. When you are presented with competing technologies--those that seem to do the same thing on the surface--the differences start to become clear and the "how" takes on a new magnitude of importance. For instance, legacy property management systems can take months to set up, a typical cloud-based PMS can take weeks, and one with self-service set-up (hint hint: apaleo) alows a property to be set up in minutes. That's right, minutes!Why does this matter so much and why should it be a primary consideration? Of course, there's the simple fact of speed. Who doesn't need more time, more productivity, and faster employees? According to the Hospitality Technology 2018 Lodging Technology Study, among the Top 12 Tactical Objectives hotels have for this year are reducing the cost of managing technology (#4) and increasing employee productivity (#5). The two go hand-in-hand.In order to meet these goals, hotels must give more priority to how technologies do what they do. 1). Setup speed and length of training required, 2). user interface efficiency, 3). Ease in which it can connect to other core systems, are all key components of this evaluation. Whether you're looking to reduce turnover among front desk staff or to increase efficiency, a speedy, intuitive technology will do both. What won't accomplish these goals are closed property management systems that require hours upon hours of set-up, two weeks of training to onboard, and no ability to connect innovative apps. Hotels need systems that take just minutes to set up a new property with inventory, services, rate structure, and policies, as well as add on innovative apps to help run the business.There's more than the act of moving faster--and the implied time and money savings--at play here. In his article, Four Reasons Speed Is Everything, Adam Fridman writes that if you're not fast, your competitors will be and that companies should establish a culture of speed, because "no company in any industry can get ahead with a slow culture" (Inc.). The hospitality industry, even as it has grown in lodging supply and demand, finds itself repeatedly behind the curve with technology. The lag is understandable given the scale on which many hotels must operate and the cost to implement new procedures (another benefit to a speedy and easy-to-use PMS), but there is an undercurrent of resistance to change or, at the very least, slowness to adapt, that runs deep and holds the industry back. One essential aspect of embracing new, innovative, and fast technologies is that it moves the whole industry ahead, and those on the forefront of the movement will be more successful than their competitors.We have entered a phase in which the pace of technology has increased exponentially, but as economist Larry Summers notes, "productivity statistics on the last dozen years are dismal." About this, Vox Editor Ezra Klein says, "There's a simple explanation... It's changing how we play and relax more than it's changing how we work and produce." Hotels have the opportunity to go from lagging technologically to a leading technological industry simply by embracing technologies that help them get ahead, setting a new pace for not only staff productivity but also for guest service. It's time for hotels to play in the technology space in a bigger, more thoughtful way. As CNBC's Todd Haselton puts it, "Every company is a technology company now... as tech has quietly become the beating heart of efficiency in every firm." And speed is one of the most important components.
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Evolve Controls Releases First Consolidated Guest-Facing Room Controls Interface
Evolve Controls 21 June 2018
CHICAGO, IL -- Wireless, cloud-based in-room control and management solutions provider, Evolve Controls, today announced the launch of Evolve Guest Interface (eGI), the hospitality industry's first multi-protocol gateway built into a touch-screen interface device.A first of its kind, the eGI device will interface with Z-Wave, Zigbee, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi."With the multiple options for connecting IoT solutions in today's fragmented technology industry, any product for the hospitality industry isn't complete without multiple radio frequency connectivity options that include Wifi, Zigbee, Bluetooth, and Z-Wave," according to Armand Rabinowitz, Senior Director of Strategy and Workgroups at Hospitality Technology Next Generation (HTNG). "These options enable operators to choose the most reliable standard for uniquely noisy RF environments."By addressing the need for multiple protocols, Evolve offers hotels greater flexibility and compatibility for integrations with existing technologies.The 8" Windows/Intel-based gateway is a sleek, simple, yet powerful device that enables guests to control in-room climate, lighting, shading and drapery, as well as other functions to increase efficiencies for both guests and staff.eGI is built upon Evolve's cloud-based Room Operations Control (RoC) platform. This means that:Turn down, butler or housekeeping services are accomplished with a touch of a button, saving precious time.The digital clock automatically syncs, eliminating the manual process of updating clocks.It is compatible with Evolve's existing portfolio of in-room devices.The solution does not require expensive onsite servers to maintain, or costly home-run wiring.Each room can stand alone and operate independent of Internet access.As modern hotel interior design shifts toward minimalism, the demand for fewer room controls devices without affecting the guest experience will become increasingly prevalent. The eGI is designed to stay ahead of this trend by consolidating devices such as the guest-controlled thermostat, special devices for lighting and shading control, IoT gateway, USB charger, alarm clock, and platform for Guest Services applications -- all within the device. With less devices, customers save."We provide our customers with the most effective method to offer the best possible experience for their guests," said Kristin Miller, CEO of Evolve Controls. "eGI is a breakthrough in addressing the rising demand for innovative, individualized and effective technology, minimalist design, and includes the must-haves for future-proof application integration.""Guest expectations drive technology. Not all guests are alike. While some expect the latest and greatest, others want simplicity," mentioned John Swain, Director of Product Management of Evolve Controls. "eGI incorporates high-tech, yet is intuitive enough for any guest to use."eGI takes on an advanced multi-layered security approach, with features such as Over-the-Air (OTA) continuous security updates and Microsoft's security stack -- imperative in mitigating risk for both the guests and hotel.The eGI allows the hotel to configure the home screen to include branding elements, as well as hotel-wide messages. In addition, guests are enabled to personalize functions such as an alarm clock and screen brightness settings. The eGI is available in table-top and wall mounted options based on your design requirements. For more information, visit www.evolvecontrols.com.
supplierHITEC Booth 2711
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Softscribe Inc. Outlines 7 Ways to Use LinkedIn to Close Sales Leads from HITEC 2018
Softscribe 21 June 2018
BENTONVILLE, AR -- Softscribe Inc., the leading hotel tech PR agency, outlined 7 ways technology vendors and HITEC attendees can leverage their LinkedIn Profiles to close sales leads at the show. HITEC is the world's largest hospitality technology conference. HITEC 2018 takes place in Houston, Texas, June 18 to 21. #HITECTX. Softscribe Inc. provides B2B public relations to the hospitality technology market and related industries. It creates public relations content, search and social media to help technology companies achieve their business goals."LinkedIn is the new knowledge center in the texting age," said Julie Keyser-Squires, CEO of Softscribe Inc. "Many colleagues now get their newsfeed via LinkedIn before going to individual websites. This makes it a powerful sales tool." Squires noted the LinkedIn platform constantly changes. Most recently, LinkedIn values discussions more than posts.Squires outlined these 7 tips to successfully close sales leads from HITEC 2018 with LinkedIn:Put the relationship first. Be genuinely interested in the other person and listen. Talk in terms of the other person's interests. This lays the foundation for a long-term and mutually beneficial relationship. "Like" their posts in your feed and make positive, business relevant comments when you know what you are talking about.Contact prospects on LinkedIn if you made face-to-face contact at HITEC and want to pursue the relationship. At HITEC, ask if you may reach out to them on LinkedIn. If so, customize your "May we connect" InMail follow up.Once connected, get in touch with prospects as often as you have valuable and relevant content to share. Make your communication organic and natural. Show that you listened to their conversation. Remember, LinkedIn is an indirect sales channel.Help prospects build their network. Suggest LinkedIn groups, an article or a white paper to help them strengthen their knowledge base. Be sure you are well-informed about what you suggest.Recommend editors, influencers and thought leaders to follow.Add a visual component to each post when possible.Offer resources on your personal LinkedIn page.Squires also advised attendees to update their personal LinkedIn privacy settings. Otherwise, "If you 'like' prospects, you may inadvertently leave bread crumbs for competitors to follow."Here is an easy way to tailor your Privacy settings:Click on your small photo icon at the very top right hand corner of your profile page.Under 'ACCOUNT' click on 'Settings & Privacy'.Click on the "Privacy" tab near the top of the page, centered between "Account" and "Communications."Click on "Edit your public profile." Then click the on/off button under 'Edit Visibility' in the right hand column. This provides a menu of options that allows you to control who sees each section of your profile. For maximum exposure, choose "Public". Public visibility displays your profile to everyone online. Other choices add degrees of privacy.The Softscribe Inc. team will be at HITEC with a group of its best-in-class tech company clients. HITEC is June 18 - 21, at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas. Click here to contact Softscribe Inc. to discuss how to close sales leads from HITEC, or to brainstorm a few ideas to support your company's marketing and business goals.About Softscribe Inc. Achieves Significant Business Growth for B2B Tech Clients in the Hospitality Industry.Softscribe Inc. is an award-winning hotel tech public relations agency that specializes in B2B public relations, branding and market consulting. We are the best in the industry at achieving significant business growth for technology companies. Our clients deliver enterprise solutions to the hotel market and related industries.Generates the Right Client Messages 100% of the Time. Our PR services focus on marketing content, search, and social media. We generate the right messages for client audiences 100% of the time. This is essential to close sales.Tech companies, do you want to increase sales and influence? Call or email Michael Squires, president of Softscribe Inc., at 404-256-5512 or mbs(at)softscribeinc.com to set up a discovery meeting and brainstorm a few marketing and PR ideas.Please give us a shout now, or visit www.softscribeinc.com.CONTACT:Softscribe Inc.Julie Keyser-Squires, APR, CEO 609 SW 8th St. #600 Bentonville, AR 72712 Phone: 404-256-5512 Email: julie(at)softscribeinc.com Twitter: @Juliesquires Resources: How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie ISBN -0-671-02703-4 Dale Carnegie website https://www.dalecarnegie.com/en
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Luxury Resorts Appreciate Guest Privacy Enhancements Included in Version Update for Springer-Miller's SMS|Host PMS
PAR Springer-Miller 21 June 2018
STOWE, VT -- Springer-Miller Systems (SMS), the leading provider of guest-centric hospitality and spa management systems, announces that the latest update to their SMS|Host Property Management System, v.22.1, is now available and includes new functionality to conform to GDPR regulations.The fully-integrated SMS|Host Property Management System provides core property management tools as well as point-of-sale, owner management, online booking and other key resort functionality. In addition, SMS|Host interfaces with leading industry systems to ensure a seamless operating environment for hotels and resorts. With this new version, SMS has focused on personal security while enabling its customers with the ability to manage and secure the data privacy of their guests. The solution includes a package of Personal Data Privacy Controls including tools for compliance with the EU's General Data Privacy Requirements (GDPR)."Our customers are very excited about this release version of SMS|Host and the advancements that we're making with our solutions," commented Robert Selwah, President of Springer-Miller Systems, "This version update will help them better serve their guests by meeting security expectations while complying with the regulatory environment."As properties update to this version, they will be able to utilize Springer-Miller's new seamless Secure Data Extract (SDE) utility with vendors for whom real-time, two-way integration may be unnecessary. Built to support automated, schedulable, secure, one-way data exports, the SDE will benefit them by:Removing sensitive guest data prior to compression and encryptionReducing performance degradation resulting from command errors, extremely large file sizes or ill-timed transmissionsProviding a reliable, programmed transfer of data while simultaneously allowing for greater processing frequency"We know from speaking to our customers that they're energized and excited about upgrading to v.22.1 and taking advantage of all the new security features and capabilities," commented Selwah.SMS has deliberately taken the time to become proficient in General Data Privacy Requirements by working closely with GDPR experts to design a set of features that allow properties to easily conform to the key aspects of the requirements. Requirements include tracking guests' privacy preferences, documenting the information on file about them and complying with a guest's request to be forgotten."In conjunction with recent enhancements to our mobile, web and POS solutions, the emphasis on guest security with this release positions SMS and SMS|Host to continue to lead the luxury hospitality technology industry far into the future," continued Selwah.Springer-Miller Systems provides access to software version updates to all customers in good standing. These updates are backed by the strength of the SMS Support team, including 24/7 live support as well as an online HelpCenter, active Customer Community and live monthly webinars.About Springer-Miller SystemsSpringer-Miller Systems provides premier software solutions for the finest hotels, resorts and spas worldwide. Springer-Miller Systems offers the SMS|Host Hospitality Management System, the truly guest-centric and fully-integrated property management system, and SpaSoft, a dynamic activities management and scheduling software solution for luxury spas.Visit www.springermiller.com for more information.
supplierHITEC Booth 919
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WebRezPro Cloud PMS Partners with Whistle Guest Messaging Platform
Whistle 21 June 2018
Whistle is a cloud-based guest messaging platform that allows hotel staff and guests to communicate via SMS text messaging and mobile messaging pre-stay, during, and post-stay. The software aims to increase guest engagement, improve service scores, and boost online TripAdvisor rankings."Integrating Whistle with WebRezPro cloud PMS has been a highly valuable advantage for our hoteliers and their guests," said Christopher Hovanessian, cofounder and CEO of Whistle. "Providing precise, automated guest messaging has significantly improved guest satisfaction and front office efficiency."The direct two-way integration between WebRezPro cloud PMS and Whistle streamlines operations by enabling WebRezPro to automatically communicate a guest's reservation information to Whistle in real time. Whistle then automates pre-arrival, mid-stay, and departing messaging to be sent to the guests via SMS and mobile messaging. Customer service is vastly improved as guests can communicate in real time using their mobile devices."We are very pleased to offer an SMS tool to hoteliers that will improve guest engagement and streamline operations throughout the guest lifecycle," said Frank Verhagen, President of WWT. "Our partnership with Whistle makes sense in today's world where smartphones have become an increasingly important communication tool."About WhistleWhistle is the number-one rated Guest Messaging platform. With over 85% of travelers carrying their smartphone, Whistle allows hotels and guests to communicate via SMS text messaging and mobile messaging pre-stay, during and post-stay. Whistle enhances customer service through real-time guest engagement, helping boost service scores while streamlining internal communication and operations through team messaging. For more information, please visit www.TryWhistle.com.About WebRezProWebRezPro is a powerful, easy-to-use cloud property management system for all accommodation types and sizes. The fully integrated and automated system saves lodging operators time and boosts revenue by streamlining and modernizing front desk and back office operations. Bringing the benefits of the cloud to 1,200+ properties in 40 countries, WebRezPro is a product of World Web Technologies Inc., an Internet marketing and software company for tourism and hospitality since 1994. For more information, please visit www.webrezpro.com.
supplierHITEC Booth 740
Her future will be tougher than my past
HFTP By Carson Booth
We humans have always dealt with new technologies, and for the most part, we have welcomed them because they have made our lives easier, better, longer, healthier, more enjoyable.... But 17 years into 21st century, the sheer pace of technological change is absolutely dizzying - and only likely to accelerate even more, causing disruptions and upheavals in every part of our lives. Perhaps more than ever before, tech driven advances are changing our economic structures, politics, and even society as a whole. Where is it all going? To bring this year's edition of The Hotel Yearbook to a fitting close, Carson Booth shares his thoughts on this fascinating - if not a little intimidating - question.
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Marine Corps Community Services selects RMS - The Hospitality Cloud as their Property Management System
RMS North America 21 June 2018
RMS - The Hospitality Cloud, a global software company at the forefront of cloud-based property management and booking solutions for the hospitality industry, is proud to announce that Marine Corps Community Services will be implementing the RMS solution at their branded Temporary Lodging Facilities, the Inns of the Corps and select Recreational Lodging locations in the United States, Hawaii, and Japan.Inns of the Corps Yuma (Arizona)Inns of the Corps Pendleton Pacific Views (California)Inns of the Corps Pendleton Ward Lodge (California)Inns of the Corps Miramar (California)Inns of the Corps Twentynine Palms (California)Inns of the Corps Hawaii (Hawaii)Inns of the Corps Lejeune (North Carolina)Inns of the Corps Beaufort (South Carolina)Inns of the Corps Butler Foster (Japan)Inns of the Corps Butler Courtney (Japan)Inns of the Corps Butler Hansen (Japan)Inns of the Corps Iwakuni (Japan)Onslow Beach (North Carolina)Del Mar Beach Resort (California)San Onofre Beach Cottages and Campground (California)Lake O'Neill Campground (California)Big Bear Recreational Facility (California)Lake Martinez Recreational Facility (Arizona)Kaneohe Bay Cottages and Cabanas (Hawaii)RMS - The Hospitality Cloud provides a fully featured PMS that has been tailored to the specific needs and strict security requirements of the military, including becoming FedRAMP certified. FedRAMP enables agencies, like the Marine Corps, to adapt to secure and cost-effective cloud-based IT solutions like RMS. The system includes an advanced property and accommodation management solution with flexible screen layouts ideally suited for the Defense industry. A comprehensive reservation management system is a cornerstone of the solution, which can easily handle any type of lodging requirement due to permanent change of station move, temporary additional duty, or just getting away."We're excited to bring a fully functional FedRAMP certified property management system to the Marine Corps that enables staff to access information anywhere, anytime, from any device to not only help streamline operations but to improve the guest experience for military personnel and family, " said Todd Sabo, President, RMS North America.RMS - The Hospitality Cloud features intuitive workflows, easy-to-use screens, with customized field names to suit specific military use. In addition, comprehensive reporting makes managing military lodging facilities as simple as pressing a button. Everything is managed in one system: staff management, reservations, housekeeping and maintenance, property management, to do lists, extensive reporting, as well as forecasting tools.About RMS - The Hospitality Cloud:RMS has created and supported business information systems for the hospitality industry since 1985. Since then the company has gained over 6,000 clients in 30 countries. Always at the forefront of technology, RMS was one of the first hospitality software companies to embrace cloud-based computing and still one of the few to boast a full featured, web-based property management system. Most recently RMS has released The Hospitality Cloud, allowing customers to choose the elements they need to run their property including property management, online bookings, channel management, point of sale, dynamic pricing, housekeeping, business intelligence, yield management and more.
supplierHITEC Booth 532
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Brittany Berger
Amazon Alexa Has Charmed Her Way to the Hospitality Industry
HospitalityTechGuru 21 June 2018
Hotel technology spent decades catering exclusively to the staff's needs. Thanks to the commercialization of advanced tech such as AI, hotel guests finally get to enjoy the same treatment, benefiting from latest solutions in terms of both efficiency and luxury. All hail the Amazon's Echo Dot.Here's how Amazon has charmed its way to the hospitality industry top.The Echo FamilyThe super-cool AI devices that the rest of the world calls Alexa are actually all members of the Echo family. Developed by Amazon, the original Echo is a Bluetooth speaker powered by artificial intelligence that acts as a digital personal assistant, conversing with its human owners in Alexa's voice.Omitting the Bluetooth approach, Amazon has made younger members of this family more convenient and modern-looking. Dot, Plus, Show and Spot ' as they were named ' all represent a smarter generation of Echo devices that make conversation smoother with IoT, AI, NLP, and machine learning.In 2017, Echo Dot has found its way to the hospitality industry, tempting hundreds of hoteliers to install this hockey-puck-size device into their guest rooms. Thus far, the response has been overwhelmingly positive, with only a handful of guests asking for Alexa to be removed from the room.And this is not just any Alexa.Both the conversational interface and the artificial intelligence embedded in the Echo Dot belong to the newly developed Alexa for Business, which was created in partnership with Volara's software. Together, they help hoteliers to build an experience that is equally engaging, helpful, and convenient.Alexa for HotelsTechnology in hospitality has a straightforward purpose ' to assist management in organizing daily tasks and to make the experience more convenient for guests. Alexa for hotels is intended to do both, and the early use cases showcase not only a satisfactory performance but also a game-changing one.Because, Amazon Alexa is capable of much, much more.mycloud, a great hotel software solution, now interfaces with Alexa. The software is voice activated, and guests can simply ask Alexa for any service. In return, Alexa and mycloud will raise the request with the dedicated department and get the service delivered.For the first time ever, hotel technology has actually managed to replace staff in meeting guests' demands. As Amazon's CTO Werner Vogels states, Echo Dot is currently automating an average of 240 item and service requests and 700 guest questions about the hotel per 1,000 occupied room nights.The result: not reduced, but a completely eliminated need for the front desk services.Needless to say, the Echo Dot integrates seamlessly with modern-day hotel PMSs, thus enabling hoteliers to put concierge service on auto-pilot but still stay on top of guest requirements. Alexa boasts a knowledge base that's as large as the internet itself but also mediates between guests and the staff.For a majority of manual tasks that can be automated ' such are turning the room lights on and off, drawing the curtains, or adjusting the heat ' Alexa needs no human help. For anything else that requires an actual concierge, a guest can address her with a voice command, and she'll notify the staff.Read more at mycloud Hospitality's Blog
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Kiwi gives multi-city travellers a new option
Tnooz 21 June 2018
Kiwi.com continues to develop new applications based around its 'virtual interlining' technology with the launch of an upgrade to its multi-city trip search.
