[Posted by Henry Harteveldt]

Hello again.

The global hotel industry is battling some tough times. To get a better idea of the industry's outlook for 2010 and the role you see distribution playing in your efforts, we're inviting hotel professionals to take a quick (10 minute) online survey. In exchange, we'll send you a complimentary summary of our findings after we complete gathering the data.

Who's eligible?

Hi everyone.

There's no shortage of research topics on which I could write. But rather than make the decision unilaterally, I thought it would be more productive -- and fun -- to shake up the a bit.

I'd like you to tell me what research would be most useful for you. Our job as Forrester analysts is to help make you more successful everyday, but you know your needs best.

Delta Air Lines (DL) has announced a slate of upgrades to its SkyMiles loyalty program for 2010. The changes are being made as part of DL's merger with Northwest Airlines (NW). Delta tells Forrester that its remains on track to fully combine SkyMiles and the Northwest WorldPerks programs by October 2009.

As a result of the merger, it's believed that the Delta SkyMiles program may have more than 70 million members (net of duplications Between SkyMiles and WorldPerks), eclipsing the perennial category leader, American Airlines' AAdvantage, which has more than 60 million members.

Some of the best benefits of the new SkyMiles program will include: