In an industry traditionally ridden with legacy systems and long-term vendor commitments, switching technology is ramping up.
Tech switching in hotel industry refers to the process of adopting new technologies or upgrading existing systems to improve operational efficiency, enhance guest experiences, and stay competitive.
Hotel Tech Switching: Common Scenarios and Considerations
1. Legacy system upgrades:
Many hotels still rely on outdated legacy systems for operations such as property management, reservations and accounting. Tech switching in hotel industry involves replacing these legacy systems with modern, cloud-based solutions that offer advanced features, scalability and integration capabilities.
2. Adopting Integrated Solutions Through Tech Switching
Rather than using disparate systems for different functions, hotels are switching to a technology stack that can be integrated into a consolidated system that streamlines workflows, eliminate data silos and provide a holistic view of hotel distribution and operations. AT STAAH, we have increasingly seen a trend of integration to property management system (PMS), revenue management system (RMS) and other systems that collectively help hotels achieve their goals.
3. Mobile technology integration:
Hotels are increasingly leveraging mobile technology to enhance guest experiences and streamline operations. Tech switching involves integrating mobile apps for functions like mobile check-in/check-out, keyless entry, in-room controls, and personalised guest services. Many hotels have also switched their booking engines to ones like STAAH that are mobile-first and deliver a seamless user experience.
4. Contactless technology implementation:
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of contactless technology in hotels. Tech switching involves implementing contactless solutions for processes such as check-in/check-out, payments, room access, and communication to minimise physical contact and enhance guest safety.
5. IoT and smart hotel features:
Hotels are deploying Internet of Things (IoT) devices and smart technologies to create connected and intelligent environments. Tech switching may involve installing IoT sensors for energy management, smart thermostats, automated lighting, and in-room voice assistants to improve guest comfort and operational efficiency.
6. Artificial intelligence and automation:
AI-driven automation is revolutionizing hotel operations, from guest service to back-office tasks. Tech switching may involve adopting AI-powered chatbots for guest communication, implementing automated revenue management systems and using predictive analytics for personalised guest experiences.
7. Enhanced Data Analytics with Tech Switching
Hotels are increasingly relying on data analytics to gain insights into guest preferences, behaviour patterns, and operational performance. Tech switching involves upgrading analytics capabilities with advanced tools and platforms for real-time data analysis, forecasting and decision-making. A number of hotels switching to STAAH have noted its data collection and insights accessible via a user-friendly dashboard as key drivers for their enhanced performance.
8. Green technology adoption:
Sustainability is a growing focus in the hotel industry. Tech switching may involve investing in eco-friendly technologies such as energy-efficient HVAC systems, water-saving fixtures, waste management solutions, and renewable energy sources to reduce environmental impact.
9. Cybersecurity Measures with Tech Switching
With the increasing risk of cyber threats, hotels are prioritizing cybersecurity to protect guest data and safeguard operations. Tech switching involves implementing robust cybersecurity measures such as encryption, firewalls, multi-factor authentication and regular security audits to mitigate risks. Hoteliers switching to STAAH have noted its high security ratings ( PCI DSS certified) as a reason to switch.
10. Blockchain applications:
Blockchain technology offers opportunities for transparency, security and efficiency in hotel operations. Tech switching may involve exploring blockchain applications for secure transactions, identity management, loyalty programs and supply chain management.
Technology switching has never been easier…
Previously hoteliers stayed away from switching technology due to the high integration costs, challenging integrations and lengthy onboarding. But as hotel technology as advanced into the modern era, driven by APIs and based in the cloud, these barriers have been removed.
Hoteliers today are freer than ever to experiment with new solutions and switch out underperforming ones. This shift towards best-of-breed products is driven by the need to adapt to changing guest expectations, industry trends and technological advancements and is leading the way to help deliver exceptional experiences and drive operational excellence.
Originally published at https://blog.staah.com on April 30, 2024.
