World Panel

Human Touch in Hospitality

Is the human touch still needed in hospitality? With innovations like mobile keycards, virtual assistants and automatic notifications, the answer might seem to be “no.” Yet research shows that many customers still prefer the human touch. Research from American Express shows that 80% of customers would rather have their future travel experiences dominated by “authentic and sincere interactions” than streamlined, automated service. In the end, it seems the right balance must be struck (consider that 88% of guests believe mobile booking with live travel service professionals will grow in importance). What actions must be taken to ensure success?

Panel Champ

Robert Reitknecht

Hospitality Leader and Guest Experience Expert

How are Airbnb owners competing with hotel brands to engage & retain travelers?

Now that hotels are coming back strong with leisure travel, how will property owners using Airbnb and similar platforms compete for rentals? We know that big players like Marriott and other large brand names see value with property homes and rentals, as they have started to make moves to compete in this market.

Viewpoint5 experts shared their view

Post-COVID Guest Experience: How Can Hotels Maintain a Personal Touch?

The social distancing measures implemented during the height of COVID-19 will linger and impact hospitality well into the future. This panel-viewpoint aims to address how hospitality leaders can think outside the box in the post-COVID era.

Viewpoint5 experts shared their view

What Matters More for Customer Experience: People or Technology?

The last few years have forced companies to adapt more quickly than ever to changing customer expectations in terms of technology. Hospitality is no exception, from mobile room keys to automated notifications across guests' channel of choice (text, email, phone) to inform them of things like confirmed bookings and reservation changes.

Viewpoint5 experts shared their view

About the World Panel

Hospitality Net's World Panel is a thought-leadership platform where hospitality-industry opinion leaders share insights, views, ideas and reactions on important issues and events currently affecting the hospitality business. Each panel is made up of a select group of experts, and industry leaders who, by invitation, contribute succinct commentary on viewpoints which are suggested by panel-champs.

More information

Panel Experts