A hotel is a managed building or establishment that provides accommodation for guests on a short-term basis in exchange for payment. It is one of the most common lodging types and may also provide food, beverage, recreation, conference, and meeting facilities, as well as a range of other services. The precise services offered depend on the type and classification of the hotel, as well as its own strategy to attract and retain customers. Some hotels are part of a chain, which offers consistency in service and quality throughout a region or country. Others are independent and owned and operated by private individuals or corporations.
Hotel operations became a significant business activity after World War II. As the economies of many countries recovered, the number of travelers increased. To meet the demand, new hotels opened at a record pace. Most of these hotels were built as part of a chain operation, which allows for efficiency in areas such as purchasing, sales, and reservations. The two main categories of hotels are transient and resort, with the latter often offering more amenities than a traditional hotel.
The organization chart of a hotel is the formal structure that establishes the manner and extent of roles, power, and responsibilities among its departments. A hotel’s organizational chart is a key element of its management and determines how information flows between levels of the organization. Hotels typically have a variety of departments, including marketing, finance, human resources, and security.
In the United States, the hotel industry developed in tandem with the development of the nation’s transportation system. The steam navigation era and the advent of railroads brought travel to the masses, opening the door for hotels to prosper along major routes. Hotel development accelerated during the postwar economic boom, which fueled mass consumer spending and made paid vacations possible for more Americans than ever before.
The hotel’s name is often derived from its location or some other feature that distinguishes it from the surrounding area. Historically, hotels were located in cities and towns for easy access to the transportation network. Later, the convenience of motor vehicles allowed hotels to be situated on inexpensive land outside city boundaries. The emergence of the motel, which offered free parking, further extended the reach of hotels.
A successful hotel depends on a good marketing and sales department to promote the property and bring in guests. The function of this department is five-fold – selling the product (rooms and facilities), personal relationships, advertising, getting MICE business, and market research.
A hotel’s customer service is a critical element in its success, which must be reflected by the quality of its staff and facilities. Guests are more likely to be satisfied with their stay at a hotel that offers personalized attention, friendly service, and a clean environment. Staff should always strive to go above and beyond expectations, and provide their guests with a memorable experience that will encourage repeat visits.
