No matter how much a business traveler has perfected his or her routine, it seems like there is always an obstacle that slows down the process. Airlines, car rentals and hotels have come a long way, and technology has played a great role in giving business travelers many options to make their experience tolerable. Radisson is introducing a pilot program at four of its properties in the U.S. with digital technology to improve the hotel guest experience. This technology is designed to personalize and simplify this experience from making a reservation to checking out.

The pilot program started in March at the Radisson in La Crosse, Wisconsin; Phoenix, Arizona; Salt Lake City, Utah; and Seattle, Washington locations and it will end by the summer of 2013. The performance of the program will be evaluated in August to determine if any or all of the components can be implemented by September 2013 across the company’s brand.

The enhancements that are in the program include:

• Check-In Choice Kiosks – These kiosks are designed to bypass the front desk and avoid what most business travelers consider a great inconvenience. The kiosk will provide the room key after providing verification information. The system was designed by NCR Corporation and IJW.
• iConcierge Mobile App - Designed by Runtris, the application gives the guest a virtual tool to create itineraries, check flight information, create customer service requests, access local information and more. The app also allows communication with hotel staff for instant requests for room service, housekeeping, booking spa appointment and transportation from a mobile device any time.
• Internet Connectivity – While this is a mandatory tool for today’s business travelers, most hotels are charging for this service. However, since business travelers have listed free Internet service as one of the biggest criteria for choosing a hotel, major chains around the world are introducing free options for some of their clients and program participants. Radisson is providing free service for its ClubCarlsonSM reward program members, but most of the hotels will provide free Internet in the hotel lobby.

“Being in service-driven hospitality, our business relies heavily on customer convenience and accessibility. Radisson is devoted to executing and indefinitely exploring technological enhancements to further engage our customers and provide new and exciting ways to ensure an unmatched, hassle-free experience. These advances in technology allow us to maintain our unrivalled in-person customer service, while providing streamlined options for independent, on-the-go travellers as well,” says Richard Flores, vice president, Branding.

Radisson is part of the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, which is made up of 1,300 hotels across the globe including Radisson Blu, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inns & Suites By CarlsonSM and Hotel Missoni.