In this insightful episode, Jan Willem van Meerten, a seasoned data specialist, dives deep into the world of data lakes and AI in the hospitality industry. Discover how integrating diverse data sources, like PMS and booking systems, into a unified data lake can revolutionize hotel operations. Learn about the magic of AI in transforming this organized data into actionable insights, all within a secure environment. Tune in to explore how this synergy can drastically improve your hotel's efficiency and guest experience.

Join us as Bart van Leeuwen, seasoned Microsoft 365 specialist, delves into the transformative impact of Microsoft Copilot in hospitality. Learn how this innovative AI tool is reshaping hotel management, from enhancing guest experiences to streamlining operations.

In this insightful episode, we're joined by Roeland Verhamme, founder of Expect Me, who shares his vision for transforming the hotel booking experience. Roeland discusses the innovative concept of allowing guests to choose their hotel rooms in advance, similar to selecting seats on a flight. We delve into how this strategy not only enhances guest satisfaction but also boosts direct bookings for hotels.

In this episode, Rogier Braakman, the Managing Director at Penta Hotels, shares the harrowing experience of a cyber attack that shook the foundations of their establishment. With an 80% occupancy across 3,000 guest rooms, the impact was far more profound than anticipated. Rogier turned the crisis into an opportunity for digital transformation, showcasing resilience and adaptability.

Stepping into the world of hotel franchising? This episode is your guide. We delve deep into the intricate process of choosing the right brand for those aspiring to open their own hotel franchise. From technological considerations to commercial advantages, we shed light on the myriad factors every budding hotelier must contemplate. Join us as we navigate the balance between tradition and innovation in the ever-evolving hospitality landscape.

In this episode, we delve deep into the transformative impact of NIS2 on the hospitality sector. While technology plays a pivotal role, the essence of cybersecurity lies in organizational readiness. Rosalie unravels the intricacies of NIS2 and its implications for hotels. Understand why it's not just about ticking boxes but truly embracing a culture of cybersecurity. Dive into a conversation that's not just about protocols but about shaping a resilient digital future for the hospitality industry.

Ditching the traditional hotel key, how is the digital shift enhancing guest convenience? Jeroen delves into the world of cloud-based key cards, debunking myths and highlighting the seamless experience they offer. From the ease of unlocking doors with a phone to the broader implications for guest services, discover how this technology is reshaping the hospitality landscape.

In a rapidly evolving hotel industry, staying updated is paramount. Dive into an enlightening conversation with Paul Sprakel, the force behind platforms like hospitality-management.nl and the annual Hotel Summit. Discover how he's pioneering the education of hoteliers, ensuring they're equipped with the latest trends, insights, and tools to thrive in today's dynamic landscape.

Dive into the evolving landscape of payments in the hospitality sector. From the rise of online transactions to the significance of unified commerce, this episode sheds light on how hotels can enhance the guest experience. Discover the importance of data security, the potential of biometrics, and the role of global payment solutions in shaping the future of hospitality. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on the seamless integration of payments and the guest journey.

Manual Excel inputs have long been a forecasting challenge for hotels. Dive in as Maarten Diepenmaat, co-founder of Statler.bi, unveils the transformative power of modern technology in hotel reporting. Discover the essence of the hotel industry's unique reporting style and how data-driven decisions are setting new standards. Tune in to explore the future of hotel forecasting.

We discuss the collective effort required for effective cybersecurity in hotels. It stresses the need for a managed service provider (MSP), quality products, and the ‘three Ps’: Process, People, and Product. In the ongoing "arms race" against hackers, essential security measures like Antivirus (AV), Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), and a Managed Security Operations Center (SOC) are highlighted. The podcast likens these precautions to a 24/7 hotel security guard, ensuring safety even during off-hours.

We talk about guest safety concerns regarding entering personal credentials into hotel room TVs. Drawing from extensive global experience, it assures that the procedure is secure. The system interfaces with the Property Management System (PMS), erases guest data including login credentials, browsing history, and cookies after checkout, thereby preparing the TV for the next guest.

This podcast urges hotels to reassess their MSPs based on their capacity to advise on NIS2 compliance and boost cyber resilience. It explores how MSPs may decline clients who won't invest in necessary protections. The talk underscores shared responsibility across all partners and views NIS2 as an opportunity to solidify best practices.

We highlight the critical role of managing potential software and IT issues in hospitality. It underscores the importance of cyber insurance specialists for protecting against business disruptions from cloud provider failures. The episode makes clear that platforms like Booking.com are not automatically insured. To secure coverage, businesses must explicitly affirm these services in their policies.