Problem
a) At what points in the planning process would you expect accounting/finance, marketing, information systems, and operations to play a role? What inputs should these areas provide, and why?
b) Does Starwood employ a chase, mixed or a level strategy? Why is this approach the best choice for the company?
c) How would staffing for the opening of a brand-new hotel or resort differ from that of an existing property? What data might Starwood rely upon to make sure the new property is not over- or under-staffed in its first year of operation?