3 key factors to keep in mind when making your next hotel tech investment
According to Unifocus, 81% of hoteliers in 2022 reported implementing and/or planning at least one major tech project. Whether you’re responsible for managing a single boutique hotel or a large chain of branded properties, it’s impossible to ignore the increasing upsides of investing in hotel tech. From seamless mobile check-in offerings to digital access to services, amenities and hotel staff, it’s easy to see why guests find increased value from tech-enabled interactions. Meeting expectations in this area is often rewarded with higher guest satisfaction and repeat business.
While the advantages of offering a digital-first hospitality experience are clear, it can be difficult to navigate the sea of options on the market. Here are a few strategies you can apply when looking to make smart choices that optimize the return on your tech investment.
Look for Ease of Use
If you’re deciding which hotel tech options to upgrade next, consider the importance of selecting a known platform that will make implementation a breeze. In a recent survey, 1 in 4 small independent hotels cited complexity as the biggest challenge for adopting new technology, and 1 in 3 indicated ease of use as the priority when choosing what tech to purchase. Regardless of the hotel or chain size, investing in any upgrades only to have them fall flat during implementation can be frustrating. Make sure when you select a hotel tech platform that it offers around-the-clock customer support in case something does go wrong. This can also ensure the implementation process will be a smooth one.
Embrace Mobile Technology
Cost is also a key factor in making coveted technology upgrades, but there’s good news for hotels of all sizes. According to Scotland-based hospitality firm Criton, guests’ mobile devices are “recognized as an essential tool for delivering and improving their travel experience.” More than 60% of respondents report using a hotel’s app, and 74% of guests said they would use this option if their favorite hotel offered it.
A branded hotel mobile app is a great way to personalize the guest experience. Using a branded mobile app, guests can check-in ahead of arrival, and, with keyless entry integration, head straight to their rooms to securely unlock their hotel room door using their phone as the key. Branded mobile apps also streamline the in-room dining process — allowing guests to view up-to-date menus and place orders all from the mobile app, just like they would DoorDash or Uber Eats. Also, guests can book spa appointments, browse hotel compendiums and request additional toiletries all with just a few taps of their smartphone.
A branded mobile app can provide a lower entry-point financially, while engaging guests and increasing loyalty. With a branded app solution, you’re also reaching guests long after they’re gone, increasing the opportunities for a repeat stay.
Hold Out for a Multi-Point Platform
While it may be tempting to select the most popular one-point solutions and try to fit them all together, you could be setting your property up for a tech stack nightmare. To ensure tech investments are worth their space in the budget, start with a platform that offers comprehensive solutions and exceptional support. Complexity doesn’t have to be an issue, and ease of use should be the expectation. Both components will lead to greater adoption and ultimately, value.
Want to learn more about how to deploy hotel tech at your property? Request a demo today.
