The collection and analysis of data through sophisticated information systems drives most every aspect of hospitality operations, management and strategy these days. What data should we collect and what are the potential powers of its use? Within this emerging context, this article examines some everyday aspects of choosing, accessing and using this data in practical ways, including the importance of data validation. The goal is for all hotel staff, from housekeeper or concierge to the executive suite, to be more data savvy and feel more in control of these powerful new forces in the hospitality space. READ MORE

As Halloween approaches, what parts of your property or organization are scary and even creepy? Where are you paying LESS attention even though your guests spend MORE attention in these often neglected areas? How do you ensure that the guest experience is truly a comprehensive guest experience throughout every spot in your environment? Seamless delivery of service is dependent upon attending to each touchpoint and not frightening guests and even employees with questionable impressions. Consider a closer look at your stairwells, your garages and your elevators. Get in the season for Halloween but don't make it Halloween all year long... READ MORE

Today's revenue managers have to deal with a lot more than just systems, rate management and reporting. More than analytical skills, revenue managers need to possess communication skills, leadership skills, and they also have to strive to be influential and motivational. This is where emotional intelligence plays a central role in the career of a revenue manager. If a person in such a position is incapable of being empathic about the challenges of others, and if they're unable to convey how valuable they are & the importance of their contribution, then they're at risk of failing to help others unleash their full potential, which directly affects their success and the performance of the hotel. READ MORE

WT is a term that encompasses all electronics that can be worn on the body. It can be an accessory, such as a smartwatch, or it can be a sensor embedded into clothing that can tract motion, time, and even location. The key benefit of wearable technology is that it connects to the Internet so that the information collected can be sent to a network, stored, exchanged, analyzed and acted upon. Businesses are finding that IoT is offering them new insights into how to increase efficiency, how to better engage employees and customers, and how to develop new revenue stream opportunities. Can the hotel industry be far behind? READ MORE

This article discusses the top five ways hotels get served with disability discrimination lawsuits. Disability discrimination lawsuits are on the rise and one of the best ways to protect your hotel from getting served with a lawsuit is to assure that hoteliers fully understand obligations under the various leave laws and that their managers are trained properly on those obligations. Maintaining written policies, memorializing any verbal communications with employees, documenting analyses of possible accommodations, and recording any accommodations or leaves of absences ultimately provided are essential steps for avoiding costly litigation. READ MORE