In today’s digital age, the hospitality industry is continually evolving to meet the expectations of tech-savvy guests. With the rise of smartphones and smart devices, hotels have recognized the need to incorporate innovative technology solutions to enhance the guest experience. Hotel technology innovation is not just about embracing the latest gadgets; it focuses on leveraging technology to improve guest engagement and provide a seamless and personalized stay.
Streamlined Check-In and Check-Out Processes:
One of the key aspects of guest engagement is ensuring a smooth check-in and check-out experience. With the use of technology, hotels can implement self-service kiosks or mobile check-in options, eliminating the need for guests to wait in long queues. This not only saves time but also allows guests to have a hassle-free arrival and departure, enhancing their overall satisfaction.
Mobile Apps for Personalized Experiences:
Mobile apps have become an integral part of our lives, and hotels can leverage this trend to improve guest engagement. Through a dedicated hotel app, guests can access a range of services, including room service requests, concierge recommendations, and even control room features such as lighting and temperature. These apps can also provide personalized offers, loyalty rewards, and tailored recommendations based on guest preferences, ensuring a unique and customized stay.
What are some of the best mobile apps for hotels?
- Beonprice – Beonprice, part of the BeonX solution, is a SiteMinder-integrated app that helps hotel to maximise hotel profitability via pricing recommendations based on patented SaaS AI technology, resulting in the HQI – a dedicated index that measures the overall quality of a hotel to know its competitive position.
- Duve – Duve’s platform is designed as an advanced guest communication solution, providing the opportunity to do online check ins, upsells, guest apps, and more. However, where it really shines is in review and reputation management, as Duve offers opt-in marketing and customised guest surveys for better, more actionable feedback.
- EasyWay – EasyWay offers a number of solutions, including analytics, smart messaging, and upselling. It also provides a stellar contactless check in and check out service, offering a platform that’s tailored for medium to large hotels while still retaining customisability for your unique needs.
- Bookboost – Bookboost is an app dedicated to improving communication with guests, empowering hoteliers to better segment their audience, create tailored, effective messaging, automate and schedule key communications, and keep track of all guest journeys and messages in a single inbox.
- GuestPro CRM – The GuestPro CRM is a marketing powerhouse, allowing users to create automated email sequences based on in-depth guest information, including courtesy emails, transactional emails, reminders, and marketing campaigns.
- Chekin – Chekin provides multiple top-to-bottom solutions for automating the check in process, but most notable is its capabilities around keyless entry. For those hoteliers with concerns around security, Chekin’s biometric matching technology ensures your guests – and only your guests – get access to your accommodation.
In-Room Technologies:
Hotels can enhance guest engagement by incorporating in-room technologies that offer convenience and entertainment. Smart TVs with streaming capabilities and access to personal accounts like Netflix allow guests to enjoy their preferred content during their stay. Voice-controlled assistants or smart speakers can provide information about hotel services, local attractions, and even control room settings with simple voice commands.
Seamless Communication Channels:
Effective communication is vital for guest satisfaction. Hotel technology innovation includes implementing communication channels such as instant messaging, live chat, or AI-powered chatbots. These platforms enable guests to connect with hotel staff conveniently, whether for inquiries, requests, or feedback. Prompt and efficient communication enhances guest engagement and creates a sense of being well-cared for throughout their stay.
Enhanced Security and Guest Safety:
Guest safety is of utmost importance, and hotel technology innovation plays a significant role in ensuring a secure environment. Implementing advanced security systems, including keyless entry using smartphones or contactless access cards, not only enhances security but also provides a seamless and convenient experience for guests. Furthermore, integrating IoT devices for monitoring and detecting hazards, such as fire alarms or water leaks, can ensure a safe and comfortable stay for guests.
Hotel technology innovation has the potential to transform guest engagement and elevate the overall hotel experience. By leveraging the latest advancements in technology, hotels can streamline processes, foster personalization, improve communication, and enhance guest safety. Embracing these innovations enables hoteliers to exceed guest expectations, build loyalty, and ultimately stay ahead in a highly competitive industry. As technology continues to evolve, hotels should continually explore new ways to leverage innovative solutions and provide exceptional guest experiences.
