HOSPITALITY CADENCE NEWS

“Shaping Future Hospitality Leaders: The Evolution of Hotel Schools in a Post-Pandemic World”

Hospitality education and hotel schools have never been more crucial than in the post-pandemic era. The industry has undergone significant changes and challenges, making it essential for hotel schools to adapt their curriculums to meet the evolving needs of future hospitality professionals. In this essay, we will explore the key aspects that hotel schools should consider to prepare their students for success in the industry.

One vital area that hotel schools should focus on is crisis management. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of being prepared for unexpected events. By integrating crisis management courses into their programs, hotel schools can equip students with the necessary skills to navigate and mitigate future crises effectively.

Sustainability and eco-friendliness have become fundamental pillars of the hospitality industry. Hotel schools should incorporate courses that educate students on sustainable tourism practices, green hotel initiatives, and environmental management. By instilling a sense of responsibility and eco-consciousness, hotel schools can help shape future professionals who contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly industry.

The digital transformation has revolutionized the way hotels operate and interact with guests. Hotel schools must keep pace with this change by including classes on technology management, data analysis, and digital marketing. By arming students with these skills, hotel schools can produce graduates who are well-versed in leveraging technology to enhance guest experiences and drive business growth.

To bridge the gap between theory and practice, hotel schools should foster strong partnerships with hotels and hospitality companies. These partnerships can provide students with valuable internships and hands-on training opportunities. By immersing themselves in real-world scenarios, students can develop a deeper understanding of the industry and refine their skills, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.

While technical skills are essential, hotel schools should also prioritize the development of soft skills. Effective communication, teamwork, and outstanding customer service are crucial in the hospitality industry. Hotel schools can create interactive and experiential learning environments that cultivate these skills, enabling students to excel as future leaders and managers.

Furthermore, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion should be a central tenet of hospitality education. Hotel schools should strive to create inclusive environments that embrace diversity in their student body and faculty. By fostering a culture of respect and acceptance, hotel schools can contribute to building a more welcoming and harmonious industry for all.

Overall, hotel schools play a vital role in preparing future hospitality professionals for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. By adapting their curriculums to include crisis management, sustainability, digital transformation, and soft skill development, and by fostering industry partnerships and promoting diversity and inclusion, hotel schools can produce graduates who are well-equipped to lead and excel in the post-COVID world of hospitality.

“The Power of Asset and Owner Representatives in Hospitality Construction Projects”

Standing still is not development. In the fast-paced world of construction projects within the hospitality industry, it is crucial to have the right support and expertise to ensure success. That's why I strongly advocate for the inclusion of both an owner's representative and a skilled asset manager in your project team. They are the key assets that will guide you through every stage of the project and ensure that your goals are not only met but surpassed.

An owner's representative is your dedicated advocate, possessing invaluable knowledge in design and construction. Their unbiased advice and guidance will prove instrumental in navigating any challenges that may arise. From managing budgets and schedules to overseeing construction and occupancy, they will be your trusted partner. Their sole focus is to deliver your project on time, within budget, and to the highest level of quality. By hiring an owner's representative, you are investing in a valuable asset that will safeguard your interests and elevate your project to new heights.

Complementing the owner's representative's role is the crucial task of balancing management or franchise contracts, contacts, and output. This is where an experienced asset manager steps in, ensuring fairness and alignment with your project goals. They possess the expertise to negotiate and revise contracts to create a mutually beneficial environment, protecting the interests of all parties involved. With their oversight, you can be confident that your franchisee or management team will meet their obligations and deliver the expected output.

An effective asset manager strives to maintain a harmonious relationship between the franchisor and the franchisee, cultivating satisfaction on both ends. Through regular performance evaluations, ongoing support, and timely interventions, they ensure that all contractual obligations are fulfilled. Training and assistance are also provided to address any concerns or issues that may hinder progress. By entrusting the management of your assets to a skilled professional, you foster strong relationships while simultaneously guaranteeing project success.

By combining the services of an owner's representative and an asset manager, you create a powerful synergy that optimizes your project's outcome. Your owner's representative ensures seamless project execution, while your asset manager safeguards the balance between contractual obligations and successful management. This holistic approach guarantees not only the timely and cost-effective completion of your project but also the preservation of strong and mutually beneficial relationships with all stakeholders involved.

In the world of construction projects, standing still is not an option. Embrace the transformative power of asset and owner representatives to propel your hospitality project forward. They are the driving force that will navigate complexities, maximize potential, and deliver outstanding results. So, take the leap and unlock the full potential of your project by harnessing the expertise of these invaluable assets.

“Top 10 Hotel Technology Trends to Watch for in 2023”

Smart hotel rooms: Smart hotel rooms allow guests to personalize their experience by adjusting temperature, lighting, and streaming their favorite shows. These rooms also help hotels reduce operating costs by optimizing energy usage.

1. IoT (Internet of Things): IoT technology connects devices through the internet, enabling centralized control. It enhances guest experiences by allowing them to personalize their rooms and helps hotels address issues proactively.
2. Big data: Hotels can collect and analyze large amounts of data to gain insights into customer behavior, personalize services, and make informed business decisions.
3. Mobile check-in service: With a mobile check-in service, guests can check-in remotely, reducing contact with staff and streamlining the arrival process. It improves guest peace of mind and saves time.
4. Contactless payments: Contactless payment methods, including card and mobile payments, minimize physical contact and transaction time, providing convenience and safety to guests.
5. Translation devices: Translation devices facilitate communication with foreign guests, breaking language barriers and ensuring clear and effective customer service.
6. Increased internet bandwidth: Hotels need to provide high-speed internet to accommodate guests' increasing reliance on multiple devices for entertainment, work, and communication.
7. Cybersecurity: As hotels rely more on technology, strong cybersecurity measures are crucial to protect guest information, prevent cyberattacks, and maintain brand reputation.
8. Robots: Robots can provide contactless services, including greeting guests, room service, and housekeeping, ensuring guest safety and convenience.
9. Air filter systems: Air filter systems eliminate pollutants, allergens, bacteria, and viruses from hotel rooms, promoting a healthy and comfortable environment for guests.

As a professional owner in the hotel industry, it is crucial to stay updated with the latest technology trends that can enhance your guests' experience, improve operational efficiency, and drive revenue. Here are the top 10 hotel technology trends to watch for in 2023:

• Smart hotel rooms offer personalized experiences, energy efficiency, and cost savings.
• IoT technology enables centralized control, personalization, and proactive issue resolution.
• Utilize big data to gain insights into customer behavior and make informed business decisions.
• Implement mobile check-in services to reduce contact, save time, and enhance guest satisfaction.
• Embrace contactless payment methods for convenience, speed, and safety.
• Integrate translation devices to overcome language barriers and deliver excellent customer service.
• Ensure increased internet bandwidth to meet guests' growing connectivity needs.
• Prioritize cybersecurity to protect guest information and maintain brand reputation.
• Explore the use of robots for contactless services, such as greeting guests and housekeeping.
• Install air filter systems to provide clean and healthy environments for guests.

A hospitality consultant can certainly be a valuable option for hotel technology projects. Hospitality consultants specialize in providing expertise and guidance specifically tailored to the hotel industry. They have in-depth knowledge of industry trends, best practices, and operational challenges faced by hotels.

Here are some reasons why a hospitality consultant can be a good choice for hotel technology projects:

Industry Experience: Hospitality consultants have extensive experience working with hotels of various sizes and types. They understand the unique requirements and challenges faced by hotels and can provide tailored solutions based on that knowledge.

Comprehensive Approach: A hospitality consultant takes a holistic approach to technology projects, considering not only the technical aspects but also the impact on operations, guest experience, and overall hotel strategy. They can help align technology initiatives with the hotel's business goals.

Network and Vendor Relationships: Consultants often have established relationships with technology vendors and providers. They can leverage these connections to help hotels identify the most suitable solutions, negotiate contracts, and ensure smooth implementation.

Objective Advice: Hospitality consultants provide an unbiased perspective. They can objectively evaluate different technology options, recommend the most suitable ones for the hotel's needs, and help avoid potential pitfalls or costly mistakes.

Project Management: Consultants can take on the role of project managers, overseeing the entire technology implementation process. They can create project plans, coordinate with vendors and internal teams, monitor progress, and ensure timely execution.

However, it's important to note that the choice of the best option depends on the specific requirements and circumstances of each hotel. Other factors such as budget, project scope, and existing in-house expertise should also be considered. It's advisable to conduct thorough research, seek recommendations, and evaluate the track record and expertise of potential hospitality consultants before making a decision.

By adopting these technology trends, you can optimize guest experiences, streamline operations, and stay ahead in the competitive hotel industry. Remember to evaluate the suitability of each trend for your specific business needs and monitor their effectiveness to make informed decisions. Embrace the opportunities that technology brings and start updating your hotel's technology today to stay relevant and meet the evolving expectations of your guests.