This week, my Las Vegas Business Press column takes a look not at what technology is being introduced into casinos, but how it’s being used–and should be used:
The technology used on casino floors has evolved considerably in the past two decades. And, as showcased at the recent Global Gaming Expo, it continues to do so.
But, as always, it’s the application, not the innovation itself, that’s going to matter. Casinos can use new tools to go in two divergent directions: cutting costs and bettering the player experience. While the former is tempting and seems the better bet, the latter might be the smart long-term play.
via Las Vegas Business Press :: David G. Schwartz : Pros, cons of increased casino floor technology.
I’ll admit that my hope that casinos use technology to drive profits in the long-term by adding convenience to the player experience as opposed to driving profits in the short-term by cutting labor costs is probably naive, but it’s not exactly a radical notion. Ultimately casinos are in the hospitality business, and making guests feel like they’re in a hospitable place would seem to be the first step towards succeeding in that business.