Digital Future of the Global Hospitality Industry and Hospitality Education: Review of Related Literature

Abstract

The hospitality and tourism industries are changing dramatically as a consequence of the application of information technology (IT) to managerial, and strategic and operational tasks. This is stimulated by the competition within the industry as well as the development of new, creative technological advancements. Digital revolution constitutes one of the most significant developments in the volatile business market. Hence, utilising digital technology is essential to maintain competitiveness and keep up with the changing world. Advancements of modern technology, has the potential to replace human labour with artificial intelligence and robotics. Thus, hospitality graduates need to be equipped with the right skills and abilities to meet the needs of the evolving hospitality industry. Further, they need to always upgrade themselves with the right competencies to thrive in the job market. With the goal of evaluating recent developments and technology advancements in the hospitality education and industry, this study analyses past research works in the field as well as theories of skill development, particularly for hospitality graduates. Using the content analysis method, the study examined previous research on how hospitality graduates can enhance their skills. Based on the findings, a conceptual framework for fourth-generation technological abilities was developed for the hospitality sector. The proposed conceptual framework can serve as a basis and guideline for future research efforts as well.