Aloft Hotels has been an innovative brand since its inception in 2008. From design to programming to food and beverage, the brand has revolutionized the way the staid hospitality landscape approaches the guest experience. Keyless check-in? They were first. Robotic butler? Check. Global music programming? (Mic) Check. And with more than 115 hotels around the world, there are no signs of slowing down. At this session inside Aloft's El Segundo location, you'll experience a conversation with Aloft, one of their innovation partners, and Co.Design editor Suzanne LaBarre on how these innovations come to life from concept to rollout within a global hospitality landscape as well as the future of creativity and technology for the brands. Then you’ll experience an outdoor musical performance and some of Aloft's tech innovations for yourself!

 

It’s time revisit our notions of human diversity. Is it the key to great customer experiences or an obstacle to be mitigated? Human beings have been at the center of design practices for a long time, yet technology is poor at adapting to their unique needs. Immersive digital experiences—from VR to 360 mapping—are poised to transform how people interact with the world. But who will benefit, and who's excluded? Join designer Kat Holmes and creative agency Ignition in exploring how inclusive design can unlock meaningful experiences for you and result in better technologies for everyone.

 

Single-focused utility bots are now the benchmark in AI. How can we create a bot for more than just skills, but services too? And depending on how we define the service, what is right for each bot? Get a look under the hood at VW’s bot in -the -making, Manuel — then dive into a case study and workshop services you would want the bot to deliver.