Research & Reports

The evolution of customer engagement technologies is leading to deeper and more meaningful connections with guests, and hospitality operators are hoping -- ultimately – to increased sales. Last year's first ever Customer Engagement Technology Study proved the importance of CETs in the industry. This year, the study was repeated to learn how the segment has changed and how CETs are contributing to guest loyalty, differentiation, competitive advantage and bottom line. Insights were culled from execs who collectively oversee 81,748 restaurant units and 5,705 hotels worldwide across all market segments, resulting in 143 finding on how operators are engaging guests.

The point of sale is the major artery of businesses and as such it is a focal point for tech spending. The latest in hardware and software is a testament to the ever evolving needs of operators and the increasing demands for mobility, speed, efficiency and cloud-based options. This annual supplement showcases the latest options in hardware and software solutions that will revolutionize the point of sale

With the ever-changing payment landscape, security is a top concern for hospitality operators. In an increasingly mobile culture there are more touchpoints than ever that need protection from data breaches. This report highlights several of the latest additions to the security landscape that run the gamut from wireless networks, tokenization, encryption, and PCI requirements.

Guestrooms account for the largest portion of a hotel's technology budget. Not surprisingly, most hotels are funneling those guestroom investments into adding bandwidth, but several other technologies are ranked as high priorities in 2013. Among them are electronic locking systems and room control devices. In this technology report, HT showcases new solutions from three leading guestroom technology suppliers, including RFID/NFC-ready locks and a new all-in-one multi-media device for charging and playing guests' tablets and mobile phones

In this annual study, HT reveals the latest technology trends that are influencing the food service industry as a whole. The report covers a comprehensive range of topics including: budgets, business health and metrics; investment strategies; top IT department challenges; mobile and social initiatives and plans; POS; payment security and more. The survey's findings show how the industry as a whole is under pressure to enhance the customer experience on the front-end, while still increasing efficiency in the back-of-house.

HT profiles new hardware and software solutions from a variety of vendors. Download the 2013 New Tech Showcase for more information on these high-impact products and solutions which include: the latest in POS and payments; new mobile workforce management platforms; back-office and enterprise solutions; a video wall solution; mobile hostess systems; and a guest experience platform.

HT's annual Lodging Technology Study reveals the trends, challenges, and priorities of hoteliers across a range of topics, including budgets and business drivers, in-room tech priorities, property management and back-of-house, and front-of-house tech. The findings from this research reveal both priority and satisfaction levels, exposing where technology performance is and is not meeting the needs of operators.

Labor is the lifeblood of the hospitality industry. In this special report, HT takes a look at the cutting-edge technologies that are shaping how restaurants and hotels can manage all aspects of labor, from scheduling to payroll and everything in between. These leading advancements will help operators increase efficiency while improving employee satisfaction.