Family values

Purpose – Aims to suggest how characteristics of the idealized nuclear family may provide some lessons for the improved practice of hospitality management. Design/methodology/approach – Explores the origin and nature of the family as a social unit and the benefits experienced by its members and society. Relates this background to a fictional case study, “The Halcyon Hotel”. Findings – Concludes that in a world where family values seem to be in decline, the concept of the idealized nuclear family could be readily transferred to the practice of hospitality management for improved teamworking and overall operational improvement. Originality/value – Compares the characteristics of the extended domestic family with the corporate “family” in terms of roles and responsibilities.