The attached article is interesting, as it implies that the assignment of hotel rooms has less to do with computer assignments, and more to do with the "rooms controller". For, it is the rooms controller's job to review all of the variables, such as price charged, loyalty status, special needs and requests, VIP status, group bookings, etc., and to assign the rooms 3-5 days in advance, with the intention of balancing guest satisfaction with profit.

So, once you arrive at the check-in desk, the front desk manager knows what flexibility they have towards giving you any changes you might request. So, if the hotel is not totally booked, they can quite often address your specific requests, within reason.

I must say that I have experienced this with almost all the hotels I have been at:

• I quite often book through Priceline, where a request for the second floor or above goes with the booking- and I get that.
• When I arrive at the hotel, I usually drive around the hotel to see where the best view is (I work out of my room, so seeing something - even traffic - helps). I then ask for what I deem is the best view - and I most usually get that (unless I, for example, request an ocean-side room for a non-ocean-side price).
• I then go to my room before dragging all my luggage in to ensure that the room will work. In those very few times that I have found that the room just would NOT work - I have most often been given a change in rooms.

So - the takeaway? Don't be afraid to ask for what you want for your room preference. The front desk manager most often can - and wants to - accommodate you, within reason.