Written in Partnership with Amir Bakian
In the hospitality industry, the guest experience is everything. From the moment a guest arrives at a hotel to the time they check out, it is the responsibility of the hotel staff to ensure that their stay is enjoyable and comfortable. This means providing quality service at every opportunity, from check-in to housekeeping to the concierge desk. It also means paying attention to small details, such as delivering fresh flowers in the lobby or offering a complimentary newspaper in the morning. In the last few years, technology has helped provide a better guest experience. Here’s how:
- Remote check-ins
Remote check-in is a new trend in the hotel industry that allows guests to check in to their rooms from anywhere using their mobile phones. Westgate Resorts, for example, ensures that guests don’t have to wait in line at the front desk or fill out paperwork. Instead, they can go to their room and relax once they check in remotely. Additionally, remote check-in allows guests to choose their rooms from available rooms. This way, they can choose a room that best suits their needs and preferences. It’s a convenient and efficient way that gives guests more control over their stay.
- Keyless entry
Keyless entry systems are quickly becoming the norm in the hotel industry and for a good reason. Guests appreciate the convenience of using their smartphone or key fob to enter their rooms, and hotels benefit from improved security and easier data tracking. When you check in at the front desk, the receptionist will give you a key card. This key card will have your room number and a barcode on it. You will need to hold the key card up to the door reader to get into your room. The door reader will scan the barcode and open the door. This system eliminates the risk of losing the key during your stay.
- Robotic butlers
Robotic butlers are increasingly being used in hotels to provide a more efficient and personalized service. Generally, these robots are programmed to understand and respond to common requests from guests, such as directions to the restaurant or laundry room. They can also be equipped with sensors that allow them to avoid obstacles and autonomously navigate around the hotel. In some cases, they may even be able to deliver items directly to guest rooms. While they are not yet capable of performing all the tasks of a human butler, they can significantly improve the efficiency of hotel operations and thus provide a better guest experience. Many guests find robotic butlers a novel and enjoyable addition to their hotel stay. As they become more advanced, robotic butlers will likely play an even more significant role in the hospitality industry.
Hotel guests now expect a more technology-driven experience, from checking in to ordering room service. As hotels adopt new technologies, people can expect even more innovative ways for guests to interact with their surroundings.
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