2011 Technology Trends

2011 Guest Room Trends

Summary:  

This article is about the latest 2011 technology trends in the hospitality industry.  To find out the ever-changing technology trends in the hospitality industry Hospitality Technology asked a number of hotel executive. Some feedback they received was sustainability, in-room entertainment and mobility and of course the Ipad has been at the tip of every guests mouth.

Due to the recession sustainability has not been an easy accommodation that hotels can change to meet the needs of the guest. One thing that has been added to the rooms is the Energy Management Systems.

In room entertainment has been a major issue for many hotel brands. With Netflix covering 20 million people between Canada and the US. It makes it very hard for hotels to compete with this business that is coming right into the hotel room in the guests hands.  Some mention that over the top TV content maybe adding to the in room experience and they might make social networking available through your in room TV.

The major buzz for technology trends is Ipads in the rooms. The Plaza Hotel in New York City has had amazing results from adding this to each and everyone of their 282-room Hotel. The manager states they are running a more efficient and effective hotel with the help of the ipads. Where guests can request almost anything to their room through their handheld.

Reflection:

I absolutely love this article. Technology trends in the hospitality is very important that is one major aspect of your hotel that can separate you from your competition.  Technology is an ever-growing trend that will be around for many years to come. I think that they hotel that have a leg up on it will reap the benefits greatly.

Sustainability is a big trend that is coming about. The thing that is great about this trend is that it is not only helping the customer feel better about staying at your hotel but it also helps the environment and ultimately your bottom line. You will be spending less on the electric bill and moving those saving to marketing dollars.

I love the idea of the ipads in the rooms. Not only are you pleasing the guest by letting them have the opportunity to use them but they are also making dinner reservations at your hotel restaurant. They could even possibly order room service that they may not have done if they did not notice that fresh fish is offered tonight for a special rate.

The overall trends for 2011 sounds like the hotel executives are off to a great start with the trends. I am interested to see what is to come.

http://hospitalitytechnology.edgl.com/top-stories/2011-Guestroom-Tech-Trends70778