Hotels

Hotels and e-Commerce

In hotel management there is a range of IT systems set in use in order for the business to function properly. Previously hotel receptionists would have to manually write down any customer information when a booking is being made and would have stacks of old hard copies of information. Now, an individual can make room reservations online, from anywhere and at any time so long as there is an electronic device with internet access. Moreover, using the internet to make hotel room reservations has brought about a number of benefits.

First, an individual can book rooms from home by accessing the hotel's website and customer interface. The customer can feel safe as most commercial business contain a unique website with policies and certification, in addition A customer may want to use an anti-virus/spyware software. This is a clear advantage as in the past our personal information may be given to a middle party (travel agent), where there is risk of our information leaked out or sold to others. However, there is no 100% guarantee that using online security can 100% protect our privacy as technology improves and people are getting more IT inclined, who may be able to hack into the system. Therefore, it is the user's responsibility and the hotels’ to create a safe and stable system to prevent any damage or loss of information.



Alternatively,  individuals can use services provided by the online travel agents to compare prices and facilities at different hotels. Individuals can also make room reservations through transaction brokers like "Agoda.com". A transaction broker is one who indirectly represents both the buyer and the seller for them to complete each transaction. They are not responsible for the operational efficiencies of the hotels offered in their websites but only the follow-up documentations and confirmations . At Agoda.com, individuals can view pictures of hotels and rooms, information on prices and deals, even information on local resorts. There are also reviews or ratings of the hotels’ facilities. In this way, individuals can base on their personal preferences and budget, and make reservation with the hotel that best suits their requirements. However there is a risk that whatever information provided in the website may not be entirely the truth. Nevertheless, this can be overcome by cross checking against other websites or enquire from family and friends if possible.