We have some great reads for you this week. First, we discuss if Blockchain has the potential to disrupt the OTA business. Then, we found an exciting opinion article by Jos Schaap, Founder and CEO of StayNTouch about the fact that choosing big names when buying new technology is not always the best idea. And lastly, we would like to introduce you to a traditional Japanese hotel and it´s very own way to integrate robot technology into their daily routine.
Happy reading!
Many innovations were supposed to spell the death knell for OTAs. Just one thing: it never happened, and all those consultants and prognosticators were wrong. Is it Blockchain that is supposed to herald the end of the OTAs?
How will blockchain do this? Supposedly, the distributed, immutable blockchain database, or ledger, will enable sellers (hotels, airlines, etc.) and buyers (travellers) to execute contracts (bookings) without the need for a “trusted” third party. There is just one problem with this thesis: “trust” is not the main reason why
travellers book with OTAs.
"Nobody ever got fired for buying IBM equipment." While it is true that large well-established tech brands tend to be more widely adopted and influential, they may not be the best choice for every business, and in fact, could leave you regretting your decision in the long run.
There are a few companies that have learned from the mistakes of others and have asked the hard questions regarding what today's guest really wants. And guess what? They might not always be the most prominent players, and that isn't necessarily a bad thing.
The recently launched ProPilot Park Ryokan, in Hakone, has taken cutting-edge scientific advances to create what must surely be a world-first – self-parking slippers.
Floor cushions and tables at the ryokan (a form of traditional Japanese inn) have also been fitted with automated abilities, allowing guests to rearrange the furniture as they see fit without having to remember where everything went originally.
