While this story happens to be about a hotel in a developing nation, the story is seen in many hotels in many countries - even those in developed nations. Last October, in my global travels, I traveled to a developing country to spread the word about the value of becoming certified as an Employer of Choice®. Though my sponsors wanted me to stay in a local, well-respected, three-star hotel, when I visited it to take a look, there were no Westerners, and I asked to see an alternative four-star property. READ MORE

Today, the best advice anyone in charge of supply chain management can give is take a strategic, long-term view of your contracting efforts. All of us want to save money, but it takes more than hard bargaining to get the best deals. It takes vision and the ability to look at the entire supply chain from field to table to identify the most effective ways to make the overall supply chain more productive. Based on many years of experience in dealing with over 900 suppliers and a team of 50 commodity experts, I would suggest working with suppliers, not working at odds with them, to take costs out of the system. Based on this, here are some ideas... READ MORE

With hotel occupancy and revenue growth down overall, it will take some creative thinking to navigate the unchartered economic waters of 2009. Most hotel properties already scaled back on staff and expenses last year. But what to do next? Tough times call for innovative ideas, proactive planning, and daily financial monitoring. They call too for motivating and retraining staff to continue excellent service for loyal customers and to attract new ones. And it means keeping up the property and grounds to maintain attractiveness. Inviting ambiance and top-notch service draws customers. A property must continue to shine - especially in lean economic climes. READ MORE

What is Practical vs. Beautiful Design? As I considered this question while preparing to write on this topic, it occurred to me that practicality is so many things when it comes to executing beautiful design. It doesn't always mean that a piece of furniture "doubles" as two. (It's a desk that also serves as a coat stand.) It doesn't even necessarily mean that every element of the design is even useful in a literal sense. READ MORE

It's all too easy for hoteliers to fall back on tried-and-true formulas in designing the next crop of boutique hotels. Today's formula is working, as evidenced by the growing popularity of boutiques. However, the segment's hallmarks are innovation, creativity, and risk-taking. As we move into the future, boutique owners need to embrace the same fresh thinking that earned boutiques their reputation 20 years ago. Inspiration can come from virtually anywhere - if you know where to find it. READ MORE