Everything technology-related for Monscierge.
The best thing about the hospitality industry is the personal interaction. Fantastic service with a personal flair does more for the guest experience than anything else. Creating that memorable experience for guests is what lies behind the passion true hoteliers have for their careers. So in this age of technology, does the live concierge have a reason to fear the digital one? Simply, the answer is no. While digital concierge platforms can bring a new level of services to hotels that don’t already employ a live concierge, upscale brands are better served using technology to enhance, not to replace, concierge service. Local recommendations, already curated by a concierge, should be integrated into the digital concierge system. Staff can have mobile access to these local merchants (reservation numbers, operating hours, menus, and more) if they are using a concierge app, and guests are able to find their own way if they prefer. For instance, suppose a guest wants to find a dining establishment that dishes up local flavors and is family appropriate, but he has several food allergies. Rather than making phone calls and speaking with numerous people at the restaurant in question, the concierge can use his smartphone to check …
In May of 2009, Derreck Kayongo, who has over 15 years’ experience developing campaigns for cause-related advocacy, founded the Global Soap Project. A former refugee himself, he saw first-hand the health problems that could be prevented with access to soap. Joining with hospitality professionals such as Ned Barker (Chairman of the Board, GSP), who previously served as Vice President for Franchise F&B for IHG, the Global Soap Project recovers discarded soap from hotels and recycles it into new bars. The soap is then distributed around the world to orphans, refugees, and disaster victims. An estimated 2.4 million children die each year from hygiene related issues, and over 2 million bars of soap are discarded by hotels in the U.S. every day. The Global Soap Project works with existing organizations within communities to distribute the recycled soap, along with hygiene education, where it is needed most. Based in Norcross, GA, the Global Soap Project can be reached through their website. To date, they have distributed over one million bars of soap, and were the regional winners in the Health and Wellness Category of the Annual CLASSY Awards. For information on how your hotel can get involved, you can email the Global …
With all of the innovative and exciting ideas for hotel technology out there today, it can be difficult to find a technology partner who can suit your needs. The question is, can you believe the hype? Whether you’re choosing a company to partner with for the long haul, or a specific product, deciding which factors matter most to you and your brand can be a little overwhelming. This is a guide to help you maneuver through the new landscape of hotel tech. Top 10 Considerations in Choosing a Technology Partner What are you trying to achieve? Never sacrifice the guest experience for the latest gadget. Most new technology can provide a “wow” factor, but in the end, guests should want to use it, find it easy to use, and it should enhance their stay and help foster an emotional connection to your brand. Is your provider better at marketing than technology? Self-promotion does not equal substance, so look beyond the brand. Have you spoken with any of their clients for a real insight? Part of looking beyond the brand is finding out what other clients have to say. Even a great piece of technology with high reviews may not be …
The nature of hospitality has, at its very root, the caring for one another. A generous spirit and sincere concern for another individual is what makes hospitality professionals great at what they do. With that in mind, it is no surprise that charity seems to come naturally to those who have built their careers taking care of others. In the midst of the season of giving, I wanted to share with our readers some the charities I have come across within the industry. This is far from being a complete list – most hotel groups and individual hotels have many ways to give back on a local and global scale. Hospitality Action has been around for over 170 years. According to the history published on their website, they were originally founded as the “London Coffee House Keepers Association” for the purpose of providing relief to aged members of the trade, and their widows and orphans. They now provide all manner of support for hospitality workers who need it, including financial counseling, grants for essential items, and support for retired workers. They lend a hand to individuals in times of crisis related to health, domestic violence, and many others. The Global …
Twas the night before Thanksgiving and all through the hotel, A feast had been planned for the swank clientele. The turkey was thawed and veggies were prepped, And all floors were silent as Thanksgiving guests slept. The manager was nestled all snug in his bed, While holiday profits danced in his head. The night clerk completed the last guest request, With hopes that the stillness foreshadowed a rest. When up on the third floor there arose such a clatter, She sprang from her seat to see what was the matter. Away to the phone she flew like a flash, Lines were all ringing and she heard a big crash. A sleepwalker, au naturale in the lobby, And the guest on the phone was sounding quite sobby. The toilet was clogged and the shower was leaking, And TripAdvisor lit up with people critiquing. A man strode in and requested a bed, At the “no vacancy” sign, his face turned all red. “I’m a loyalty member, you should be ashamed! I’m best friends with the owner!” and called him by name. Now elevator! Now ice machine! Now thermostats and power! From Wi-Fi to TVs, and toilets to showers! From the top of …