ST. PAUL, MN AmericInn International LLC has commissioned a consultant from KMPG to analyze the upscale limited-service chain s technology systems to keep it on track for the future, HOTEL BUSINESS. has learned.
At the chain s annual conference being held here at the Radisson Riverfront Hotel St. Paul, Luke Fowler, president/CEO, commented on the chain s progress, ticking off technology achievements over the past year, such as layering AmericInn onto a global distribution system (GDS) and setting up an internal Intranet site to establish company connectivity and access to training guides, e-mail, news, etc., as part of the company s move to new headquarters in 2000.
“When you stop to reflect on where we were just a few years ago and where we are today, the changes we have made to embrace technology in our everyday operations is astounding,” said Fowler.
On the reservations side, AmericInn has switched its reservations service provider for its 800 number to McLeod USA. “This has greatly improved our platform for our reservations system via their fiber optic network, high speed data transfer and operator center staff,” said Fowler.
To keep the momentum going, AmericInn has hired consultant John Repa, director/hospitality sector of KPMG Consulting, to review the chain s current technology systems “and provide insight on the direction we will need to take in the future,” said the CEO.
“We will be careful in the process of the evolution of our systems. We will do the research and use the knowledge of such talented experts as John Repa to ensure we make the best choices for AmericInn,” said Fowler.
“It is important for all of us to keep in mind that lodging chains that embrace technology to use the latest systems to deliver guests to their properties will have an advantage in the years ahead. But it is equally important to note that properties that provide excellent service will be the ones that survive,” added Fowler. (5/8/01) Stefani C. O Connor