Revised 2/2014

HRI 240 - Managing Technology in the Hospitality Industry (3 CR.)

Course Description

Provides an overview of the information needs of hospitality properties; addresses essential aspects of computer systems, such as hardware, software, and generic applications; focuses on computer-based property management systems for both front office and back office functions; examines features of computerized restaurant management systems; describes hotel sales computer applications, revenue management strategies, and accounting applications; addresses the selection and implementation of computer systems; focuses on managing information systems; and examines the impact of the Internet and private intranets on the hospitality industry. Lecture 3 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

The basic purpose is to provide the student with general knowledge of technological practices and trends in the hospitality industry.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

None.

Course Objectives

Upon completing the course, the student will be able to:

  • Describe the criteria used to evaluate hospitality technology applications.
  • Identify common technology systems used in hospitality operations.
  • Identify and describe features of the three major components necessary for a complete computer system-input/output devices, a central processing unit, and external storage devices.
  • Describe the various ways in which hospitality businesses use technology to gain and process reservations.
  • Identify and describe the elements of a rooms management module.
  • Identify and describe the elements of a guest accounting module.
  • Identify and explain the function of common PMS interfaces, which include point-of-sale systems, call accounting systems, energy management systems, electronic locking systems, and guest-operated devices.
  • Describe common hardware configurations of POS systems used by food service operations.
  • Explain the functions and use of food and beverage management applications, including those concerning recipe and menu management, sales analysis, and pre/post costing.
  • Identify the elements of an automated sales office.
  • Describe and apply revenue management principles.
  • Explain the use of catering software.
  • Identify and describe the numerous accounting applications that are available to hospitality businesses.
  • Outline the components of information management, with special attention to data processing and database management.
  • Select and implement technology systems in hospitality settings.
  • Identify the various threats to technology systems and the security precautions that should be taken to keep those systems safe.
  • Describe the elements of technology system maintenance.

Major Topics to Be Included

  • Hospitality Technology Systems
  • Reservation Systems
  • Point-of- Sale Technology
  • Food and Beverage Management
  • Accounting Applications
  • System and Security Maintenance