Fully functional wireless hotspots could soon become a regular feature at hospitality resorts, if its popularity at SA tourism showcase Indaba 2004 is anything to go by.
The hotspot was installed at the Indaba by WirelessG and Telkom, using The Notebook Company`s notebooks and Mustek`s wireless desktops, to promote hotspots to hotels and tourism operators.
"The response and feedback at the Indaba was very good," says Carel van der Merwe, CEO of Wireless G. "Over 14 000 minutes in 1 053 sessions were sold over a period of three days," she says, adding that the deployment offered 100% uptime within the commercial environment.
While hotspots have been met with positive feedback, the general public still seems unsure of the advantages they offer. Van der Merwe reports that the majority of visitors to the Indaba hotspot were interested in learning more about the benefits of WiFi technology within the hospitality environment.
"The availability of the hotspot at the Indaba gave visitors the opportunity to see the benefits in a hands-on environment. I think this proves that availability is one of the primary drivers," says van der Merwe.
From a business perspective, van der Merwe believes wireless connectivity is essential for hospitality companies looking to be competitive, and will also offer the consumer a better service. "Hotels and lodges targeting the business market should have this service available to their clients, if they want to compete internationally, and nationally with those who already deployed WiFi Internet access at their venues.
"Time wasted during long hours waiting at airports or residing at hotels can now become productive hours for workers, improving productivity to the company and at the same time freeing up time when at home, improving their personal lives."
Van der Merwe says the company provides the user with a seamless experience. "Our use of 802.11b technology means that any Intel Centrino or Apple Airport Card in a laptop can be used to access our network. Now the travelling businessperson who stays at a hotel will at last receive a stable, fast and cost-effective solution.
"The idea is to check-in, unwind and log on."
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