Global chains with the benefit of deep pockets and global reach may seem best able to respond to the new tourism industry demands. But smaller players don't necessarily have to struggle to remain relevant. Technology, ever the equalizer, provides opportunities to innovate for everyone. Smaller hotels and guest houses can adopt some of the same approaches trending globally.
21stCentury Ready Rooms
Conveniently located power outlets. Desks you can actually work on, chairs you can actually sit for extended periods on. Wired and wireless connectivity options.
Broadband Internet � Default not Premium
Reliable, available everywhere, high-speed Internet access can transform any hotel from amaybeto a must-stay for business and leisure travelers.
Mobile Service
Take advantage of the growing number of guest owned mobile devices by providing convenient access to property and destination information and services. This can be used, for example to allow hotel guests to browse through dinner menus, and local attractions.
Convenient Online Booking
An intuitive online booking options is a must. Extra points (and guests) for establishments that offer booking on mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones.
Personalized Experience
Allowing guests various options to customize their stay has gone way beyond room type and high or low floors. Hotels are making it easier for guests to access amenities and consume content. From making it easier to connect laptops or tablets to in-room TVs to watch movies or view photos; to providing bedside speaker docks so guests can listen their own music on their iPods and MP3 players, today's Internet-savvy tourist has ushered in an era of personalization.
Leverage the Social Networks
A well-thought-out online marketing and brand management strategy is an imperative in the modern tourism industry. Building and managing an online reputation across multiple social networking channels such as blogs, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and review sites like TripAdvisor, can be complex. But these online properties are now a central mechanism for getting the word out about a destination or location.
Bevil Wooding is the Chief Knowledge Officer at Congress WBN and an Internet Strategist with Packet Clearing House. Follow on Twitter: @bevilwooding or: facebook.com/bevilwooding or contact via email attechnologymatters@brightpathfoundation.org