How Can Hotels Use Technology to Prepare for an Increase in Guests?
As the world is recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism industry is slowly but surely bouncing back. Many people are looking forward to traveling again, and this means that hotels will need to be prepared for an increase in guests. Travelers are planning to book more hotel stays in 2023 than they did in 2022, according to the National Booking Index survey research commissioned by the AHLA. 60% of adults are likely to take more leisure trips in 2023 than they did in the prior year and 45% of business travelers are likely to take more business-related trips in 2023. Hotels need to invest in the right hotel technology that allows them to operate more efficiently and offer guests the seamless experience that keeps them coming back.
Streamlining Check-In and Check-Out Processes
One of the main pain points for guests is the check-in and check-out process. It can be a time-consuming and frustrating experience, especially if there are long lines. However, with the help of technology, hotels can streamline these processes and make them more efficient. One way to do this is by implementing self-check-in kiosks. These kiosks allow guests to check themselves in, select their rooms, and even print their room keys. This not only saves time but also reduces the workload on hotel staff. Additionally, hotels can implement mobile check-in, where guests can check themselves in using their smartphones. This is especially useful for guests who arrive late at night or early in the morning when the front desk might not be staffed.
Similarly, the check-out process can also be streamlined by implementing automated check-out systems. These systems allow guests to check-out using their smartphones or kiosks, reducing the need for them to wait in long lines at the front desk. By using technology to streamline check-in and check-out processes, hotels can improve the overall guest experience and increase guest satisfaction.
Enhancing Guest Room Amenities
Technology can also be used to enhance guest room amenities, making them more attractive to potential guests. For example, hotels utilize smart room technology that allow guests to control various aspects of their room using their smartphones. This could include adjusting the temperature, turning the lights on and off, and controlling the TV. Additionally, hotels can offer in-room tablets that allow guests to access hotel information, order room service, and even make reservations at the hotel’s restaurant.
Reliable Wi-Fi
Another must have amenity that hotels should offer is high-speed and reliable Wi-Fi. Guests are basing their booking decisions on the quality of a hotel’s Wi-Fi, and many expect to have fast and reliable internet access. Hotels that can provide this are more likely to attract repeat guests. Additionally, hotels can offer streaming services like Netflix or Hulu, allowing guests to enjoy their favorite shows and movies during their stay.
Improving Communication with Guests
Communication is key in the Hospitality Industry, and technology can play a vital role in improving communication between hotels and guests. For example, hotels can use messaging apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger to communicate with guests before, during, and after their stay. This allows hotels to provide personalized service, answer questions, and address any concerns that guests may have.
Hotels can also use chatbots to automate communication with guests. Chatbots can be programmed to answer frequently asked questions, provide information about hotel amenities and services, and even make reservations for guests. This not only saves time but also ensures that guests receive a prompt response to their inquiries.
Implementing Contactless Payment Systems
As the world continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, many guests are still concerned about their safety and prefer contactless options. One way that hotels can accommodate these guests is by implementing contactless payment systems. These systems allow guests to pay for their room, meals, and other expenses using their smartphones or other contactless payment methods. Contactless payment systems not only reduce the risk of virus transmission but also make payments more convenient for guests. Additionally, hotels can use these systems to send digital receipts to guests, reducing the need for paper receipts.
Technology is the Game Changer
Hotels can use technology to prepare for an increase in guests, by streamlining check-in and check-out processes, enhancing guest room amenities and improving communication with guests. Implementing contactless payment systems is another way that hotels can improve the overall guest experience and increase guest satisfaction. As the tourism industry continues to recover, hotels that are prepared for an increase in guests are more likely to succeed.
Hotels must ensure that their technology systems are secure, reliable, and easy to use for both guests and staff. Additionally, hotels must provide training and support to their staff to ensure that they are comfortable using the technology and can assist guests when needed.
Overall, technology can be a game-changer for hotels looking to prepare for an increase in guests. By utilizing technology to streamline processes, enhance amenities, improve communication, and offer contactless options, hotels can provide a more convenient and enjoyable experience for guests. As a result, they are more likely to attract more repeat guests and guests who are looking for a high tech hotel experience, leading to increased revenue and success in the long run.