Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
In 2022 we saw the hospitality industry return to pre-pandemic levels. Last summer, occupancy rates hit 7%, an increase of 5% over the same period in 2019.
As business gradually returns to normal, hotels, resorts, and restaurants are looking for new ways to boost profitability, improve customer experience and increase the overall level of security. In order to achieve these goals, businesses are also increasingly resorting to new technologies.
This article will focus on the hottest security and tech trends in the hospitality industry.
Upgraded Access Control Measures Can Boost Safety
Access control measures can help hospitality businesses boost safety by providing an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access. For example, a commercial access control system can be used to regulate those who can enter certain areas, such as pantries or storerooms, as well as restrict access to administrative offices.
Among other features, these systems can also provide automated check-ins and check-outs, thus allowing hotels to track guests’ movements with greater accuracy. Some of the most popular access control measures in the hospitality industry are door locks, turnstiles, and RFID readers. More advanced solutions for businesses with more specific needs include biometric fingerprint readers, voice identification, and facial recognition systems.
By implementing effective access control systems, hotels can create a secure environment that will help protect their customers and employees from numerous potential threats.
AI-Powered Video Security Provides More Accuracy
Thanks to their ability to detect suspicious activity, supervise guests, and provide real-time alerts, AI-powered video security systems can help hospitality businesses keep both their guests and workforce safer.
These solutions use advanced analytics to detect potential threats before they lead to damage. This allows the organization’s staff to respond quickly to any suspicious activity or potential safety concerns. Additionally, AI-powered video security can monitor guest behavior and ensure that all visitors follow the rules and regulations.
Finally, AI-powered video security can help businesses improve customer service by providing real-time alerts every time something needs particular attention. For example, if a guest leaves their room without checking out or if there is an issue with a room key, the system can readily alert hotel staff, that in turn can address the issue quickly and efficiently.
The Importance of Cybersecurity
The hospitality industry is among those most vulnerable to cyber-attacks. With millions of travelers providing personal information, hotels and other similar organizations have a duty to take the issue of cybersecurity seriously. These organizations need to that proactive actions that protect data from malicious actors who may be looking to steal or manipulate sensitive data. Cybersecurity measures such as using tools like FastNetMon also give protection against DDoS attacks and ransomware, which can disrupt operations and lead to financial losses.
Another benefit of cybersecurity is that it can help prevent the reputational damage that typically follows a data breach. Such an event can lead to negative publicity, customer dissatisfaction, and a decrease in bookings. Therefore, it is important for hotels to have solid security measures in place (such as firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption protocols) in order to prevent this scenario from ever happening. Additionally, the staff should be trained on best cybersecurity practices, including strong passwords and avoiding suspicious links or emails.
Smart Rooms Can Increase Guest Satisfaction
Smart rooms are equipped with various technologies that allow guests to control their environment and customize their stay. Examples include automated lighting, temperature control, sound systems, and even virtual assistants.
The use of smart rooms in the hospitality industry has numerous benefits for both hotel owners and guests. For hotel owners, smart rooms can improve operational efficiency by reducing energy consumption and streamlining processes such as check-in and check-out. Additionally, smart room technology can help create a more personalized experience for guests by allowing them to customize their stay according to their preferences.
For guests, these rooms can provide a more comfortable and convenient stay. Additionally, some hotels offer additional services through their smart room technology, such as ordering food or booking spa treatments directly from the room.
On the whole, by providing enhanced convenience and comfort while improving operational efficiency, smart rooms are revolutionizing how we experience hospitality today.
Photo by Alex Knight
More Efficiency with Automation Technology
Automation solutions allow for manual, time-consuming tasks to be done with little to no human intervention, usually through software and technology. This can help streamline processes such as check-in/check-out, room service, housekeeping, and more. They are becoming increasingly popular in the hotel industry due to their ability to automate mundane tasks such as cleaning rooms or taking orders from customers. This helps free up staff members so they can focus on providing better customer service instead of being bogged down by tedious tasks.
Automation also allows hotels to track guests’ preferences and behavior in order to give a more personalized experience. For example, if a guest has stayed at the hotel before, the system can remember their preferences and have their room ready for them upon arrival.
Overall, automation technology is transforming the hospitality and other industries by improving efficiency, reducing costs, and providing a more personalized experience for guests. It is an invaluable tool for any hotel looking to stay competitive in today’s market.
