Live from HITEC: GUESTROOM 20X Integrates Innovative Tech into the Guestroom
The brand new version of the hands-on exhibit GUESTROOM 20X makes its debut today, illustrating the possibilities for the guestroom as it evolves with the growth of technology integration. The model room is on display June 22-24 at the Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC) at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla. This newest version takes lead with travelers' increased use of personal electronic devices and the Internet as a central resource for entertainment and information. With connected guests, hotels can efficiently deliver guest services, including guestroom entry, entertainment, environmental controls, navigation and so much more.
"GUESTROOM 20X has proven to be a valuable tool for exploring the potential for technology to create memorable guest services," says Frank Wolfe, CAE, CEO for HFTP. "This year the room shows how hoteliers can take advantage of Internet and wireless devices to deliver a range of services, from local directions and recommendations, to multi-media experiences."
Technologies featured in the exhibit include a cell phone application that unlocks the guestroom door with a unique audible signal, integrated environmental room controls via touch screens that include Internet access; a canopy bed with an all-in-one multi-media experience; a bathroom mirror that broadcasts the day's weather, news and health data; and much more.
To view the full GUESTROOM 20X Guide, visit www.guestroom20x.org. The guide is also available on the free HITEC iPhone app and on the mobile Internet version of the app.
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), the producers of GUESTROOM 20X, puts together a new version of GUESTROOM 20X every other year, to debut at that year's HITEC. The technology on display is decided on after a worldwide, comprehensive search of existing, cutting-edge and future guestroom innovations. The exhibit originally debuted at HITEC 2006 in Minneapolis, Minn.
HITEC is the world's largest hospitality technology exposition and conference. It offers attendees a one-stop shop for essential education, access to experts and hospitality technology vendors, networking with top leaders in the industry and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines.
HFTP, Austin, Texas, USA and Maastricht, The Netherlands, founded in 1952, is the global professional association for financial and technology personnel working in hotels, clubs and other hospitality-related businesses. HFTP provides first class educational opportunities, research, and publications to members around the globe including, the premiere hospitality technology conference HITEC--founded in 1972. HFTP also awards the only hospitality specific certifications for accounting and technology --the Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE) and the Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP) designations. HFTP was founded in the USA as the National Association of Hotel Accountants.