The hospitality industry traditionally excels at listening to customer feedback. Whether it’s through surveys, interviews, or a simple “How was your stay?” the industry relies on customer interaction in order to thrive. That is where social media comes into play.

Companies in the hospitality industry are shifting from “high-touch” to “high-tech,” which changes not only the way these businesses operate, but also how they serve their guests or customers.

Popular home rental site Airbnb now ranks third among the highest-valued startups — and for good reason. The company taps into travelers’ desire to get an authentic taste for an area, feel personally welcomed, and have an enjoyable time without breaking the bank.

I remember the worst event I ever attended like it was yesterday.

It all came down to one simple mistake: The organizers had an attendant with a clipboard stand by the bar. As the bartender poured, the man tallied — he was counting the drinks! What started out as a (very) transparent attempt to ensure a good ROI turned into a full-blown catastrophe in a matter of minutes. Guests were mortified, believing that the clipboard-wielding gentleman was there to keep track of their drinking habits. A lavish event bombed, all because someone wanted to know how busy the taps were.