Blog: Shawn Rogers

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Wireless and Mobile Access

This past week I traveled across the USA to visit friends and family to celebrate the July 4th holiday. We drove through Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin. I get to travel for my job almost every month of the year but generally I am in larger cities that are generally recognized as technology centers. I was surprised to see how wireless technology has crept into mainstream america. I found wireless access in the most unexpected places; In Iowa they have installed free access at selected wayside rest stops along the expressway. I found it at a Fudruckers in Omaha, Skeeters coffe shop in near Rockford and several gas stations along the way. And perhaps my favorite spot was the I-80 IOWA Worlds Largest Truck Stop, they also had a movie theatre, dentist, medical office and art fair.

The wireless access issue that caused me the biggest surprise was at the Hilton properties (DoubleTree Suites) I stayed at. They charge!! Can you believe that I can get free access at the local hamburger joint but not at the hotel I am staying at. Personally, I see wireless like towels, soap, and sheets if you can't include it with the room I'll stay somewhere else. Shame on you Hilton Hotels....get a clue.

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