Majority of guests take advantage of broadband internet connections

Hotel & Motel Management, Nov 1, 2004

Accessing modern technology in the over-century-old grand dame of Cincinnati hotels isn't always something that guests of The Cincinnatian Hotel think about. That is, until they are there. Beforehand they focus on the spectacular restaurant, the stately accommodations, the world-class service. But once they settle in, pull out their laptops to work or do e-mail, they are pleasantly surprised that they have access to a free broadband connection. Just like the big chains.

The Cincinnatian Hotel teamed with Time Warner Cable Commercial Services to bring broadband Internet connections, provided by Road Runner Business Class, to each of its 146 guest rooms and seven suites. They also installed Wireless Access Points in the Palace Restaurant and The Cricket Lounge. This is the first hotel in Cincinnati to offer this service.

The Cincinnatian Hotel is a Mobil four-star, AAA four-diamond hotel, and is also a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. It prides itself on traditional European service complemented by modern technology and comfort. The hotel was built in 1882 and renovated in 1987. It is recognized as one of the top 500 hotels in the world.

"Our guests are already used to our service and top-of-the-line audio and video equipment," says Denise Vandersall, managing director. "Now with our broadband cable connection, they are getting used to quick, hassle-free Internet connections--surely the amenity of the time."

The Road Runner Business Class Hospitality solution was designed for The Cincinnatian Hotel to minimize disruption to the hotel's business and provide the simplest solution for guests. The solution enabled connections to the Internet of speeds up to 1.5Mbps both downstream and upstream. The process of getting online is effortless. The equipment used senses how the user's computer was last connected to the Internet and will automatically configure itself to match the computer's network settings--users do not have to change a thing.

"With the service they used prior to Road Runner Business Class, front desk clerks had to function as IT support staff," says Ken Fitzpatrick, senior vice president of Time Warner Cable Commercial Services. "We put in a solution that takes the responsibility off of them and makes it extremely easy for guests to use the service."

Company Profile

Time Warner Cable Commercial Services

13241 Woodland Park Rd.

Herndon, VA 20171

Phone: 703-345-3560

Fax: 703-345-3506

Web site: www.rrbiz.com

Key contact: Alee A Rouhani, Group Manager, Marketing

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