The Current Situation of Technology in the Hospitality Industry

Abstract

The hotel industry is persistently being marked by technological innovations. Technology had significantly altered the scenario when customers had to physically visit the hotels to book lodges and accommodation prior to their stay. Technology and more specifically the internet has now facilitated hotel reservation by providing one-click solutions. Technology is not only restricted to an online reservation department; however it is increasingly pervading the strategic as well as everyday operations of the hospitality industry. This paper aims to discuss the current scenario of technology in the hospitality industry as well as shedding some light on the industry perspective pertaining to technological innovations.

Table of Contents

Abstract2

Introduction3

Discussion3

Current Situation of technology in the Hospitality Industry3

Human Resources Practices in the Hotel Industry altered by technology4

Websites and Online Reservation Innovations4

Wireless technology and Cloud Computing4

Biometric Technology5

Self Service Technology5

Conclusion5

References7

The Current Situation of Technology in the Hospitality Industry

Introduction

Rapidly evolving technology in the 21st century has launched new opportunities and venues for industries, organizations, and individuals, all over the globe; however technology has significantly affected the hotel industry by forming an integral part of everyday operations as well as defining strategic success. It is imperative for the hospitality industry which has at times lagged behind to embrace technology, to realize the widespread affects of technology (Buick, 2003). Not only has the technology affected the human resources practices in the hotel industry, it has also compelled management to utilize world class technology in providing an unparallel level of comfort and satisfaction to their guests (Dickson & Nusair 2010).

Information technology (IT), particularly wireless technology and cloud computing is just one aspect of technology that resorts to the clientele proportion of the hotel industry. Apart from these day-to-day interactions of technology with guest; the management needs to answer questions related to technological budget allocation, and technology will drive the strategic direction of a particular hotel in the current as well as future scenario (Gregory, Wang, & DiPietro 2010).

Discussion

Current Situation of technology in the Hospitality Industry

It is quite alarming to note that hotels, restaurants and the overall hospitality industry are observing certain levels of resistance and reluctance in adopting technology (Muller 2010). Only recently has the industry embraced technological developments in the following areas.

Human Resources Practices in the Hotel Industry altered by technology

Technology has drastically improved the cost effectiveness, operational efficiency, resource allocation and overall service quality by automating the human resources practices in the hotel industry. ...