Features to Look for in a Hotel Branded App
The hotel branded app has emerged as a game-changer in the Hospitality Industry. Its ability to enhance the guest experience, improve customer loyalty, boost revenue, and provide valuable data-driven insights makes it an indispensable tool for modern hotels. By investing in a well-designed and user-friendly app, hotels can stay ahead of the competition, deliver exceptional guest experiences, and solidify their position in the digital era.
When considering the development of a hotel branded app, it’s crucial to identify the essential features that will enhance the guest experience and provide maximum value. Here are some key features that hotels should look for when choosing an app:
Seamless Booking and Check-in
A hotel branded app should offer a seamless booking process, allowing guests to easily search for availability, select room types, and make reservations directly from their mobile devices. Integration with the hotel’s property management system (PMS) ensures real-time updates and availability.
The app should also provide a smooth check-in experience, allowing guests to complete the check-in process digitally and receive a digital room key on their smartphones. This eliminates the need for traditional check-in queues and provides guests with the convenience of a contactless check-in.
Personalized Guest Profiles
The app should enable guests to create personalized profiles where they can save their preferences, such as room type, bedding preferences, preferred amenities, and dietary restrictions. This information can be used to tailor the guest experience, offer personalized recommendations, and ensure that guests’ needs and preferences are met during their stay.
In-app Messaging and Concierge Services
A guest messaging feature within the app allows guests to communicate directly with the hotel staff for any inquiries, requests, or assistance they may need. This feature enhances guest satisfaction by providing quick and efficient communication, eliminating the need for phone calls or visits to the front desk.
Additionally, the app should offer comprehensive concierge services, providing guests with information about local attractions, dining options, transportation, and other services. Integration with third-party platforms or APIs can offer guests a seamless experience when making reservations or bookings for external services through the app.
Room Service and Amenities
Guests should have the option to order room service, request housekeeping, or book additional amenities through the app. This feature eliminates the need for phone calls or filling out paper forms, making the process more convenient for guests. Integration with the hotel’s systems ensures accurate tracking and fulfillment of guest requests.
Loyalty Program Integration
For hotels with loyalty programs, the app should seamlessly integrate with the program, allowing guests to view their loyalty status, earn points, and redeem rewards directly through the app. This encourages guest engagement and fosters loyalty by providing guests with exclusive benefits and incentives.
Mobile Check-out and Payment
An efficient mobile check-out process allows guests to review their bill, make payments securely, and receive a digital copy of their receipt, all within the app. This feature saves time for both guests and hotel staff, streamlining the departure process.
Push Notifications and Offers
The app should support push notifications to keep guests informed about hotel promotions, special offers, and relevant updates. Personalized notifications based on guest preferences and behavior can enhance engagement and encourage guests to take advantage of exclusive deals or upgrades.
Integration with Other Hotel Systems
To maximize the app’s efficiency and effectiveness, integration with other hotel systems is crucial. This includes integration with the property management system (PMS), customer relationship management (CRM) software, revenue management systems, and other relevant systems. Seamless integration allows for real-time data synchronization and provides a holistic view of guest information and interactions.
Multilingual and Multi-platform Support
For hotels catering to an international audience, multilingual support within the app is essential. The ability to switch between languages ensures that all guests can navigate the app comfortably and access information in their preferred language. The app should also be available on multiple platforms, including iOS and Android, to reach a broader audience and accommodate guests using different devices.
When selecting a hotel branded app, it’s vital to consider features that enhance the guest experience, streamline operations, and provide a personalized and convenient stay. By choosing an app with the right set of features, hotels can elevate their service quality, improve guest satisfaction, and differentiate themselves in a highly competitive market.
Benefits for Hotels
Enhancing the Guest Experience
A hotel branded app serves as a powerful tool to enhance the overall guest experience. By providing a seamless and personalized digital platform, hotels can offer their guests a wide array of services and features right at their fingertips. From booking rooms and checking-in online to ordering room service or requesting amenities, the app streamlines the entire guest journey, making it more convenient and efficient.
Furthermore, a well-designed app can offer valuable information about the hotel’s facilities, local attractions, dining options, and exclusive promotions. It can act as a virtual concierge, providing guests with real-time recommendations and suggestions based on their preferences. By empowering guests with instant access to relevant information and services, a hotel branded app creates a personalized and memorable experience that sets the property apart from its competitors.
Boosting Revenue
Beyond enhancing the guest experience and driving customer loyalty, a hotel branded app can have a significant impact on a hotel’s bottom line. By leveraging the app’s functionalities, hotels can unlock new revenue streams and optimize existing ones. For instance, the app can serve as a platform for promoting in-house services such as spa treatments, restaurant reservations, or tours, generating additional revenue for the property.
Additionally, a hotel branded app can facilitate upselling opportunities. By showcasing room upgrades, special packages, or ancillary services, hotels can entice guests to spend more during their stay. The app’s intuitive interface and personalized recommendations make it easier for guests to discover and purchase these add-ons, ultimately increasing the hotel’s revenue per guest.