In April 2000, Kathryn Koning’s vision for a cybercafé next to Penn State University was, in many ways, ahead of its time. Students mistook the polished setup of computers for a campus lab, unaware they had stepped into a tech pilot program. That early challenge, however, laid the groundwork for what would become a company in the hospitality technology sector.
Pivoting quickly, Koning repurposed her system’s “total refresh” algorithm into a guest-use PC and pitched it directly to The Westin in New York City. When asked what the system should be called, the now-ubiquitous term “Business Center” was coined on the spot, Koning said. “Back then, the only cell phones were in bags,” Koning reminisces. “I just wanted to build something useful—something that made life easier for people.”
That drive led Koning to start Global Software Applications, known to many through its flagship brand SurferQuest. The company is now in its 25th year of delivering secure, custom-built technology to hotels, resorts, cruise ships, libraries and public institutions.
Rooted in Innovation, Problem-solving
As the founder, Koning led the company from its earliest pivot: transitioning from a café concept to introducing its “total refresh algorithm” on a rather bulky white computer to the lobby of the Westin Hotel in New York City. “When asked what the unit should be called, the term ‘business center’ was coined—marking a milestone moment in hospitality tech,” she recalled. “It was about meeting a need—offering practical, guest-facing tech in an era where mobile phones still came in bags. That spirit of usefulness and innovation still drives us today.”
Much like early tech innovators, GSA started with a clear vision: to solve problems with smart, scalable technology. “We focused on creating smart algorithms and real-world applications to meet emerging needs. That ethos hasn’t changed. The team remains agile, innovative and highly tuned in to the evolving needs of hospitality environments,” Koning said. “Today, we continue to evolve as a development/people-first company, building customizable tech solutions to solve real operational challenges in the hospitality and travel industries.”
Global Software Applications is a full-stack development company with more than 25 years of experience in crafting bespoke technology for hospitality environments. Its suite of products includes:
- Digital wayfinding and signage: Interactive property navigation tools and local directories for guest convenience.
- QR conneX: Showcasing everything the properties have to offer while reducing waste and clutter.
- Loyalty and rewards platforms: Fully integrated with CRMs and guest engagement apps.
- Mobile app development: Check-in, dining reservations, itinerary management and guest messaging.
- Kiosk systems and self check-in: Seamless and secure lobby-based guest services, including ID scan and room assignment.
- Payment and prepaid card systems: White-label digital wallets for hotels and cruise ships.
- Analytics dashboards: Real-time data visualizations on guest behavior, spending trends and operational KPIs.
SurferQuest specialized products include:
- Business center kiosks: Secure, public-use computers for guest access in hotels, cruise ships and libraries.
- Print station software: Self-service printing from any device, often integrated with the hotel’s property-management system.
- Secure browsing solutions: Wipe-clean sessions, content filters and user privacy assurance.
- Custom guest portals: White-labeled UI for guest-facing content, apps and services.
- Access control systems: Session timing, billing and management tools for public-access tech.
- Cloud management tools: Real-time system oversight, reporting and remote administration.
People First—Technology Second
What sets Global Software Applications and SurferQuest apart is its people-first philosophy, according to Koning. Perhaps the most distinctive trait of the company is its commitment to service. “Despite being a tech firm, people—not platforms—come first,” she said. “For 25 years, our clients have enjoyed live, 24/7 customer support from in-house staff and not outsourced bots.
“Anyone can develop software but not everyone listens. We listen, we solve and we stay connected.”
Clicking With Clients
Innovation remains central to the company’s identity. It is currently focused on enhancing direct PMS integration for its clients, eliminating middleware to improve stability and simplify deployment. The newest platform, QRconneX, has a fully-branded guest experience using QR technology for contactless access to services, information and booking tools—aligned with evolving guest expectations. “Customization is everything,” Koning said. “Whether it’s a cruise ship, casino or resort, our clients want solutions that reflect their identity and enhance the guest’s journey.”
The company is also expanding its focus on customization. From business centers to social spaces and beyond, all of its platforms are designed to be tailored to each property’s branding and unique guest experience. “In a market where personalization is king, we aim to deliver not just functionality, but delight,” Koning continued.
This article was originally published in the June edition of Hotel Management magazine. Subscribe here.