When we reached the 100 mark, we stopped counting the number of websites we had already built. Regardless of the size of your property, its star ranking, location or feature set, the development of any successful site is based upon your ability to provide appropriate input to your web design team. I imagine that your house was built on a solid foundat...
When your reputation as one of the finest properties in the world is at stake, the need for continuous re-invention is not just a concept, but a necessity. On a recent trip to Los Angeles, I had the opportunity to experience exceptional service and a top-quality product. But what stood out most at the Montage Beverly Hills are several unique aspects of the...
LMA has launched a refreshed look for New York’s Hotel Pennsylvania’s Online Sales Kit, which highlights the social and corporate event space at the property. The site focuses on the rooftop space and the different layout opportunities available. Updated with the Expression Engine version 2 platform, the content-managed site allows for easy promotional sp...
LMA has launched a revitalized web site for Penn Plaza Pavilion, one of New York’s most sought after social and corporate event rental space with over 40,000 square feet in the hear of Manhattan. Built with a Wordpress content management system, the site highlights the different the imagery and space of the venue. New features include a Calendar of Upcomi...
I recall a conversation with an owner of a Relais & Chateau affiliated property in the early days of the Internet. He questioned the need for a web site and proclaimed to all, “no one I know will book my property over the Internet.” The first Internet booking engines were somewhat crude, clunky and expensive. Moreover, hoteliers had to load room inventory...
A recently completed survey (Summer 2011) of hotel purchase behavior indicates some potentially troubling news for hoteliers. In particular, this research reveals a significant weakness in hotel brand recognition. About the Survey When I started my business career, travel arrangements were regimented. All requests went through the office travel dep...
A clear and actionable strategy for long-term success. Though its easy to say, it is hard to actually implement. Most GMs and directors of marketing are compelled - whether by the owners or through their own virtue - to produce on a quarter-by-quarter basis, but if this is the only purpose, then inevitably, you’ll reach a crisis of sorts. Planning l...
When you have $5 million and a clean slate, what type of website would you build? And, what process would you undertake to deliver the ultimate Internet experience? These were some of the questions that I asked Robert Simon, Director of Web Development for Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, following the launch of their revolutionary new site. Implemented jus...
With the planning season approaching, the hunt for new strategic initiatives is in full swing; ways to better revenue and market position undoubtedly at the top of the list. Taking stock from a few of my clients, here are five tenets that have proven successful, and may be applicable to your own programs. 1. Embrace Your Local Constituency Built on a...
I remember my first ad agency assignment in hospitality, some 30 years ago, to design and produce a ‘rack brochure' for the Inn on the Park Hotel in Toronto. At the time, the project was considered the quintessential component of their marketing plan, requiring both significant design effort and budget given the substantial print runs. The advent of the Int...
