This allows hotels to create the "right" moods in the form of audio playlists that are tailored specifically to suit certain areas of the hotel at certain times of the day.

Omari: We have planned and are implementing wireless products and we keep at par with technology advances such as video on demand, interactive TV and in-room entertainment facilities.

Kamal: For the hotel tower, which is still in the pre-opening stage, we are planning the full implementation of an integrated room control system, in addition to the installation of high-definition televisions in all rooms and mirror televisions in the bathrooms of the suites, just to name a few features.

 

"The reason why we are slow to pick up these existing technologies is due largely to the lack of local vendors and equipment suppliers."

In the suites tower, IP telephones and wireless remote control of lights have already been installed. In the future we are planning the installation of a more advanced model, which will allow guests to control the room's climate, lighting, curtains, TV, and even the sound system.
 

 

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Kazem: We plan to upgrade all our servers (hardware and operating systems) and deploy a new management system - OPERA from Fidelio - and install wireless internet connections right across the property, both indoor and outdoor.

What type of IT solutions are guests requesting now?

Pinto: While increasing numbers of business and leisure guests want to have hassle free internet in their room, tech-savvy travellers require more than mere bandwidth; they require connectivity between the hotel room sound and TV system to be integrated with their own mobile devices, such as MP3 players and iPods.

Omari: With the rapid growth and development in the IT sector, guests are becoming increasingly demanding and expect hospitality IT sector employees to be knowledgeable and up-to-date with the latest communications and wireless products. They also expect immediate assistance when they need it.

Kamal: High speed wireless internet connectivity, iPod docking stations, surround-sound systems and integrated entertainment systems are just some of the solutions that guests are requesting.

Kazem: Guests repeatedly request wireless internet connections in their rooms, to have online access to all hotel facilities and promotions from their rooms without calling and asking.

What do you do to ensure your property remains on the cutting edge of technology?

Pinto: At Rezidor we are constantly working with our partners to regularly upgrade guest?services like interactive TV and high speed internet access. A?concept like "EasyConnect" which is considered 'best in its class' provides easy and hassle free connection to the internet and this service - which is provided free of charge throughout Radisson SAS hotels - is based on years of collaboration with our partners.

Omari: To ensure that our property remains on the cutting edge of technology, we invest in our infrastructure and implement the latest technologies and products and continuously train our team to be at par with the latest developments in the industry.

On the other hand, we also audit our security policies and procedures and regularly perform vulnerability assessment to ensure data and systems security.

Kamal: It's all about staying connected and updated with the latest technological trends. I ensure that I'm kept in the loop by reading IT magazines and websites, and attending seminars and workshops for networking opportunities. In addition, we receive regular updates and information from our corporate IT personnel.

Kazem: To ensure a cutting edge technological level in our property, training sessions for our team members are conducted on a regular basis and we keep ourselves updated on the latest products in the market - hardware and software. Also daily IT news and research reports are sent to us through emails via member sign-in in most and IT solution companies.