Advertisement

Hotel Yearbook Articles

Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

Transforming guest experiences: the role of digital identity in hospitality

The hospitality industry is evolving with the adoption of digital identity management systems. Traditional identity verification methods, often time-consuming and insecure, are giving way to more efficient and secure digital identity verification. By implementing decentralized systems and biometric face authentication, hotels can improve the guest experience through expedited check-in processes, personalized services, and enhanced privacy. However, challenges such as data protection compliance, data decentralization, and system integration must be addressed. This digital transformation presents significant advantages for both hoteliers and guests, streamlining processes, and bolstering data security in the digital age.

Pedro Torres
By Pedro Torres, CEO and Co-Founder, Youverse
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

iPhone? My Dad Used to Have One! Welcome to the Post-Screen Era

In "Why the Metaverse won't be like Snow Crash," the author explores the cultural and linguistic influence on the perception of technological innovations, using Apple's Vision Pro as an example. The piece argues that societal reactions to technology are heavily influenced by the language used to describe it. By renaming the term "metaverse" to "spatial computing," Apple aims to reshape the narrative around immersive digital experiences, distancing from dystopian connotations and proposing a new, neutral, and optimistic perception. The author examines both the merits and potential downsides of the Vision Pro, highlighting its superior performance, user-friendly design, and potential to redefine the human-computer interface, yet expressing concerns about its size, limited battery life, and high price tag. The piece concludes with a prediction of Vision Pro being a stepping stone towards a future where XR devices become an integral part of our everyday lives, reshaping our interaction with technology.

Simone Puorto
By Simone Puorto, Head of Emerging Trends and Strategic Innovation, Hospitality Net
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

The Rise of Holograms in Hospitality: Unlocking Limitless Opportunities ¶for Hotels

This HYB-contributed article explores the emerging trend of hologram technology in the hospitality industry. It highlights how holograms can be used to deliver ultra-personalized experiences and create memorable moments for guests. The technology enables hotels to streamline operations, optimize resources, and reduce labor demand, ultimately cutting costs and maximizing efficiency. Holograms can serve as virtual concierges, providing multilingual support and assisting guests with check-ins and information about services and local attractions. They can also enhance marketing efforts by showcasing unique experiences and attracting guests with live performances or famous figures. In addition, holograms offer exciting opportunities for groups and events, allowing remote participation and expanding networking possibilities. The synopsis emphasizes that hologram technology is bridging the gap between physical and digital spaces, revolutionizing service in the hospitality industry and bringing futuristic innovation to today's hotels.

Andre SmithMarnix Lock
By Andre Smith and Marnix Lock
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

AI-controlled Hotel Room Pricing: The Index Fund of Revenue Management

In his article, Sage's Matt Schwartz explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the travel industry. It highlights that while AI will change how people travel, it will not alter the fundamental reasons why people travel, which are to create lasting memories, enjoy unique experiences, and spend time with loved ones. The synopsis acknowledges the potential for AI to enhance travel through advancements like auto-pilot and carbon-friendly transportation. It further discusses how AI will transform the technologies that enable travel, such as interactive booking experiences powered by AI agents and the automation of functions like Revenue Management. The synopsis suggests that while AI-controlled pricing services may outperform the majority of Revenue Managers, there will still be a need for human creativity and expertise in leveraging nuances to generate revenue. It concludes by emphasizing the importance of IT professionals in identifying and implementing AI solutions strategically to enhance travel experiences while embracing our human senses and enjoying the wonders of the world.

Matt Schwartz
By Matt Schwartz, Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Sage
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

Engineering A Sustainable Future: Empowering Change In The Hospitality Industry

In this article, Accor's Deputy CTO, who also heads the IT Strategy & Performance team, outlines Accor's commitment towards sustainability in business operations, citing the potential of technology in addressing global challenges. They have been instrumental in eliminating single-use plastics, working towards achieving net-zero emissions, and driving substantial change across the hospitality industry. Accor's sustainability strategies, embedded at all levels, have led to a majority of employees being trained in recognizing and addressing the industry's environmental and social impact. Accor Tech, under their guidance, focuses on reducing the direct carbon footprint of their information systems and innovating "Tech for Green" solutions. The significant projects for 2023 include a transition to cloud computing, a new sustainability reporting tool, and pioneering energy reduction technologies in hotels. The tech-driven initiatives are not only poised to lower their environmental impact but also resonate with an increasing number of stakeholders prioritizing sustainability.

Christine Choquel
By Christine Choquel, Deputy Chief Technology Officer - Accor, Accor
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

Data Streaming for the Hospitality Industry – 7 Benefits to Drive Your Business

In his article, David Purcell highlights the transformative potential of data streaming in the hospitality sector. The technology allows real-time, continuous integration and analysis of data, leading to immediate insights, personalized guest experiences, efficient operations, revenue optimization, enhanced safety, proactive guest service, and a significant competitive advantage. By employing data streaming, the hospitality industry can efficiently manage and react to changes, offering a standard of service that fosters unforgettable guest experiences and paves the way for future success.

David Purcell
By David Purcell, VP, Global Products, Infor Hospitality, Infor
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

Future Shifts in Cybersecurity Focus

Amid rapid tech advances and the shift to remote work, cybersecurity has become a pressing concern. Recent incidents, such as Toyota's 2023 data leak, highlight the vulnerabilities of cloud-based data storage. Ensuring software security through thorough vetting, transitioning to password-less technologies, and enhancing endpoint security are essential to counteract threats. Specialized training for staff and strengthening network resilience against potential failures are also crucial. As we adapt to this evolving technological landscape, a proactive approach to cybersecurity is indispensable.

Lynn Goodendorf
By Lynn Goodendorf, Cybersecurity Advisor and Author, Lynn Goodendorf
Ad HITEC 2026
Visit HITEC 2026 in San Antonio!

HITEC is the center for the latest conversations on hospitality technology. Come and see the technology shaping the industry.
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP)
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

What are the future talent needs in hospitality technology?

The rapidly changing hospitality tech stack for hotel groups/brands develops the need for different skill sets inside corporate IT teams. While still managing legacy platforms, vast new areas of expertise are being created around managing SaaS, data storage & security, API connectivity, payment gateways, and more. However, the problem is that these new skill sets are also in high demand by other industries. Young tech professionals just dream about a cool job at global tech companies that provide a rapid career path, rich benefits and salaries, and exciting new technical skills. 

Carson Booth
By Carson Booth, COO for EMEA, HFTP
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

The next wave of revenue: How retailing is impacting hospitality

This article provides guidance for hoteliers, advocating for a shift from a room-centric model to personalized guest experiences and ancillary services as revenue streams. It encourages a mindset change to focus on Total Revenue per Available Room (TRevPar) instead of the traditional room-only metrics. This retailing model aims to increase revenue, enhance guest experience, and future-proof the hospitality industry with technology integrating retailing solutions with booking, voice applications, and task management tools.

Frank Trampert
By Frank Trampert, CRO, Revinate, Inc.
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

User disengagement: the future of hospitality technology

The future of hospitality technology lies in user disengagement, a philosophy that prioritizes unobtrusive, background technology to enhance human-to-human interaction. While it may seem counterintuitive for a technology company to advocate for less use of their products, the hospitality industry thrives on unique experiences that take people away from the expected. The key is creating technology that works silently in the background, freeing hotel staff from screens and keyboards and allowing guests to focus on enjoying their stay rather than engaging with administrative tasks. 

Richard Valtr
By Richard Valtr, Founder, Mews
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

Navigating The Digital Frontier Activities To Futureproof Your Hotels Online Presence

In a rapidly evolving digital world, the hospitality industry is leveraging data and analytics tools to create highly personalized guest experiences and drive bookings. The integration of digital marketing has become crucial in understanding and influencing the booking journey of potential guests. As the granularity of guest data improves, all hotel departments must work in unison to stay ahead of trends, innovate, and keep their online presence updated. The key lies in fostering collaboration across sales, marketing, and revenue management, enabling hotels to strategically position themselves online and consistently engage their target audience. It's essential to maintain a consistent narrative across all digital channels, thereby increasing visibility and influencing booking decisions. Preparing for the future requires identifying current needs and devising a strategy to amplify the hotel's total online presence.

Stephanie Sparks Smith
By Stephanie Sparks Smith, CEO & Digital Matriarch, Cogwheel Marketing, Cogwheel Marketing & Analytics
Ad Tambourine One
All you need is one.

Some call it a website with a booking engine built in. Some call it a booking engine with a website built in. We call it One.
Tambourine
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

3 Ways the Labor Shortage Will Push Innovation

In this article, Cloudbeds' Co-Founder Richard Castle expresses concern over the current labor shortage plaguing the global hospitality industry and the potential impact this could have on the quality of guest experiences. The author argues that innovation is needed to address this issue, suggesting several areas where modernization could help offset labor shortages and maintain high-quality guest experiences. These include the acceleration of virtual front desks, the development of more self-guided staff training, and the fostering of increased role flexibility within the industry. The author also provides examples of how these innovative shifts are already making a positive impact, and predicts that these changes, if widely adopted, could significantly alter the hospitality landscape for the better, allowing the industry to overcome labor shortages while still delivering excellent service. The article concludes with a tribute to hospitality workers, and a call to technology developers to focus their attention on this vital industry.

Richard Castle
By Richard Castle, Co-Founder and COO, Cloudbeds
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

5 Reasons Passpoint (Hotspot 2.0) is an Essential Piece of the Hospitality ¶Tech Stack

This article highlights the new WiFi Certified Passpoint® protocol that was introduced as a solution that offers automatic authentication at every access point, delivering a seamless and convenient digital experience for guests. The article explains Passpoint benefits for both hoteliers and guests, including efficiency, convenience, security, and engagement. Passpoint®is recognized as a proven technology used in various travel applications and can be integrated into the hospitality industry to enhance connectivity, drive brand loyalty, and differentiate hotels in a competitive landscape. 

Hauke Lenthe
By Hauke Lenthe, Managing Director, EMEA & APAC, Nomadix, Nomadix, Inc.
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

A New Cast of Characters at the Hotel Show: Service Robots

Amid labor shortages and public health challenges, hotels are increasingly turning to robots to support their operations. These AI-powered service providers fill crucial roles, especially in housekeeping and customer service, where human resources are limited. They provide round-the-clock service, maintain high cleanliness standards, and help enhance the overall guest experience. Robots have not only become an essential workforce but also a novel attraction that adds a futuristic luxury touch to the hospitality industry, delivering a unique and memorable guest experience.

Michael O'Donnell
By Michael O'Donnell, Chairman & CEO, Relay Robotics, Relay Robotics, Inc.
Hotel Yearbook Article The Hotel Yearbook Technology 2023

The Importance of Hotel Connectivity for an Outstanding Guest Experience

In a world where technological expectations are rapidly evolving, hotels are turning to cloud-based solutions to enhance guest experiences, protect their data, and stay competitive. In this article, Planet discusses the increasing demands of connectivity in hotels, stretching beyond free Wi-Fi to a complete, connected experience for guests, regardless of their location on the property. The article also delves into the rising demand for seamless in-room entertainment, the importance of data security, and the advantages of harnessing cloud technology for efficient hotel operations. Despite the challenges presented by the expectation of high-quality connectivity at no cost, cloud technology offers an effective, cost-efficient solution that caters to both guest expectations and operational needs. The ability to remember past guests and personalize their experiences fosters a sense of loyalty, making it a valuable investment for hotels. The future of the hospitality industry lies in technology that unifies fragmented systems and prioritizes guest experience.

Simon I'Anson
By Simon I'Anson, SVP Global Hospitality, Planet
Hotel Yearbook Article

HFTP Corporate Allied Sponsor Spotlight Feature: HPE Aruba

Advance the way people live and work—through the HFTP Corporate Allied Sponsorship (CAS) program, get to know companies like Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) Aruba, which partners with hospitality organizations to enable frictionless and highly engaged guest, staff and workplace experiences that drive recovery, loyalty and revenue.

HFTP
Hotel Yearbook Article

HFTP Corporate Allied Sponsor Spotlight Feature: HPE Aruba

Advance the way people live and work—through the HFTP Corporate Allied Sponsorship (CAS) program, get to know companies like Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) Aruba, which partners with hospitality organizations to enable frictionless and highly engaged guest, staff and workplace experiences that drive recovery, loyalty and revenue.

HFTP