WASHINGTON, DC (May 14, 2002) � Global wireless technology has enabled the world to reach and influence consumers farther, faster and cheaper than ever before.  The question confronting every hospitality and travel entity is:  How can hospitality and tourism executives use wireless technology to better and effectively market, develop and compete? 
        
With those realities and inevitabilities at the forefront of businesses today, the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) is dedicating the next Executive THINK (Travel & Hospitality Innovation, Network, Knowledge) to a study of Global Wireless Devices: Connecting to the Consumer and its immediate and long-term impact on the hospitality, travel and tourism industry. 
        
The intensive one-day session (fourth in a series of Executive THINKs), to be presented Monday, June 24, 2002 from 8:30am to 5pm at the Swissotel Chicago, immediately preceding HITEC, unites high-level travel and hospitality executives with experts in the marketplace who will present the current and future state of wireless technology, as well as case studies and live demonstrations. 
        
Showcasing the latest developments in wireless applications, from handheld devices to wireless phones and new software applications, the forum will provide a venue for stimulating dialogue and exchanging ideas on the changing needs of consumers, and capital intensive requirements for selected wireless applications. 
        
Keynote speakers will be Leonard Fischer, �Technology Section� editor, USA Today, and Henry H. Hartevoldt, senior analyst, Forrester Research. 

This Executive THINK program will include key updates on the actual utilization of wireless applications by today�s consumers, as well as case studies and live demonstrations of state-of-the-art wireless products and applications from companies such as IBM, Nextel, Six Continents and Go To Systems. 
        
Facilitating the day�s program will be Dr. Lalia Rach, dean, Center for Hospitality, Tourism & Travel Administration, New York University Tisch Center. 
        
A networking reception will be held at the close of the session, from 5-6 pm. 
        
Attendees will receive a workbook of handouts and reference material on topics and issues covered during the session.  This invaluable take-away can be used for reference when researching ideas, strategies, and tactics that can be implemented in organizations or destinations. 
        
Registration is limited to qualified executives in hospitality, travel and tourism with a vice president equivalent or higher position.  For more information or to register online for the HSMAI Executive THINK �Global Wireless Devices: Connecting to the Consumer,� go to www.hsmai.org.  For sponsorship information, contact Bob Gilbert at [email protected] or call (202) 789-0089. 
        
HSMAI is an international organization of sales and marketing professionals representing all segments of the hospitality industry. With a strong focus on education, HSMAI has become the industry champion in identifying and communicating trends in the hospitality industry, while operating as a leading voice for both hospitality and sales and marketing management disciplines.  Founded in 1927,   HSMAI is an individual membership organization comprising nearly 7,000 members from 35 countries and 60 chapters worldwide.