AAA�s current evaluation and rating policy is actually quite simple: an anonymous and unannounced evaluation is conducted annually.  The final diamond rating for the next AAA TourBook cycle, normally 12 months, is based on that evaluation.

Is it fair to base the 12-month rating of a large and complex lodging operation on a one day visit?  In the case of properties rated 1, 2, and 3 Diamonds, the annual visit is limited to a walk through physical inspection that may be completed in one hour; only 4 and 5 Diamond rated lodgings require an overnight stay and service evaluation.

Is this fair to the properties that trust AAA to accurately represent what they offer the traveler?  Is it fair to the millions of AAA members and TourBook users who depend on AAA�s help in choosing a place to stay?  

Can a short on-site visit really justify a rating that remains in place for up to 16 months, depending on publication and TourBook validity dates?

In my opinion, the simple answer is �Yes�.  AAA presents a �snapshot in time� of a property.  After all, the guest gets only one bite at the apple; there is no free second chance in case of a bad experience.  

Is it a perfect system?  Certainly not.  

There will be inaccuracies and inconsistencies in ratings as long as there is a rating system.  There can be significant changes in a property�s physical facility and/or the level of service in a short period of time.

These changes can result from human error on the part of the inspector, new ownership or management, loss of business causing unavailability of funding, and many others too numerous to list  here.  The point to remember is that rating hotels in an art not a science; the system will not be perfect as long as humans are involved. 

Both AAA and MOBIL evaluation and rating procedures are imperfect but do achieve their basic goals of fairly and objectively rating lodging operations based on a set of consistent industry standards.

These third party ratings also bring guests to your property giving value to the process.  This value will continue as long as the public continues to trust the ratings; as long as that trust is there, the industry will benefit from the ratings, despite the imperfections, frustrations, and occasional disagreements.