�To have these two computer industry leaders participate in our mobile information access system is incredibly exciting,� said Scott Heintzeman, CIO, Carlson Hotels Worldwide. �Their involvement confirms for us the strategic value of MACH-1 and brings our product major recognition in the industry.�

MACH-1, which was launched last fall in a test phase for Carlson Hospitality�s corporate field personnel, offers executives access to essential information in real time. According to Heintzeman, the response in the field has been tremendous. �We couldn�t keep enough of the Compaq iPAQ Pocket PCs in stock for everyone who wanted to test the system,� said Heintzeman. 

�We are thrilled that Pocket PC is enabling Carlson staff to make more informed business decisions and spend more time with customers. Whether it�s sending or receiving alerts or updates to appointments, responding to customer needs or other immediate business management issues, the Pocket PC empowers the Carlson staff to work in an entirely new and exciting way,� said Joel Brazil, product manager in the Mobility Group at Microsoft Corp. 

The initial interest has kept the development on a roll. The next version is ready to be tested by hotel executives at the local level. �We are very excited to see the deployment of this new version to field management and the hotel�s operations staff. This system will not only improve customer service but will also increase bottom-line financial performance,� said David Sjolander, vice president of hotel information systems, Carlson Hotels Worldwide. 

MACH-1 is currently proceeding in the U.S. patent process and is unique in the industry because of three key components, subscribing to dynamic business information; setting personalized triggers; and receiving the alerts. �Our system offers the user the opportunity to subscribe to actionable executive level information and set personalized thresholds. Based on these thresholds, the user will be notified on the MACH-1 when certain events occur or when data is out of the range. For example, a hotel manager could be notified when a VIP checks in or when a group cancels at the last minute,� explained Tom Nalley, senior director of information management systems, Carlson Hotels Worldwide. This version allows general managers to better control their inventory and monitor guest service issues with real-time information. 

Based in Minneapolis, Minn., Carlson Hotels Worldwide, an affiliate of Carlson Hospitality Worldwide, has over 720 hotel locations in over 64 countries. Other operations of Carlson Hospitality Worldwide include Radisson Seven Seas Cruises; Carlson Lifestyle Living; Carlson Vacation Ownership; Carlson Restaurants Worldwide, which includes T.G.I. Friday�s and other restaurant brands; and Provisions, a worldwide procurement company.