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What are you looking for in a place to stay? It’s not just a bed and Wi-Fi anymore, is it? When making a reservation these days, many of us look at what is offered in terms of comfort, safety and the technology we need.
Smart hospitality business owners know this and have moved to meet this need, gain loyalty and stay competitive.
But what are some of the most common technology trends driven by global forces that will be particularly prevalent in 2022? Let’s get together, people, people, people, people, people, people, people, people.
#1. Virtual reality, AI and augmented reality
These three elements are related to a degree, but it will be interesting to see how they will be embraced by the hospitality industry in 2022, in many cases for the first time.
- VR (virtual reality) It is a simulation of a real environment or situation. It’s a significant development that’s especially useful when a potential guest is thinking of making a reservation. Thanks to VR, the guest can see what’s on offer at the reception before deciding whether or not to make a reservation.
- AI (Artificial Intelligence) Actions in chatbots when employees are unavailable. It also enables customers to book and access hospitality establishments across multiple digital channels, 24/7. We may not all like them, but chatbots can handle and answer simple questions or redirect to a human when necessary.
- Augmented reality Like VR technology, it’s digitally accessible. However, all you need is a smartphone or internet access. Unlike VR, the user cannot ‘step into’ the simulated reality. What it does is enhance the environment by providing multi-layered information. One example is interactive, touch-enabled maps that provide a wealth of information.
Each of these add value and convenience to the customer, as well as freeing employees to focus on other tasks and activities.
#2. Energy saving technology and the Internet of things
Because of the war in Ukraine, every business in 2022 is focusing on saving energy costs. Incorporating technology to help do this is a clear trend in the hospitality industry in 2022. Options include: Modern sensors and detectors Able to monitor whether rooms or areas are occupied and cut power to those that are not.
At the same time, IoT (Internet of Things) enables communication with “smart” devices and devices that collect data and interact via the Internet. This can be used to control and adjust thermostats and lighting and can also help save energy costs.
#3. Cyber ​​security
Without cybersecurity, the technology used to protect business and customer data comes with risks that can outweigh the benefits. The hospitality sector has received a dire warning during June 2022. One of the premier luxury resorts in Oregon, USA It was a target and Sensitive information of employees and guests was stolen.
In addition, the war in Ukraine has opened up cyber attacks around the world. Investing in strong cybersecurity protection has become a clear trend in 2022. So as a hospitality manager/owner you should do the following to protect your valuable information.
- Protect your devices And using a VPN that encrypts your customers’ data.
- Use the guest network to identify their own and their employees’ activities.
- Provide cyber awareness training to your employees.
- Use the cloud and backup data.
These and other measures go a long way in protecting a hospitality business, its customers and its reputation.
#4. Voice search and control
Most of us use voice search on our smartphones or personal assistants like Siri. As we’ve become accustomed to using voice for various features, many people now expect it when they’re away from home.
As tech-savvy and trendsetting hoteliers recognize that this capability must be incorporated into hotels as well:
- Booking engines and websites must be configured to work with this technology.
- Some guests prefer to be in accommodations where lights and other in-room devices are voice-controlled.
It’s a win-win as it’s convenient for customers and makes life easier for employees. It also helps reduce touch technology that can affect the spread of Covid-19.
#5. Contactless payments
The use of contactless payment methods is becoming increasingly popular with both consumers and suppliers. However, health concerns arising from Covid-19 have given further impetus to a hands-free automated payment system.
During the pandemic, customers became accustomed to using or having access to certain technologies. In 2022, the demand and expectations for these technologies will increase.
In addition to hygiene issues, contactless payments are also beneficial to hospitality providers as they are fast and compatible with loyalty programs. Both build customer satisfaction. This trend has taken root as many customers now prefer contactless and cashless transactions.
Image by: Jonas Lep
#6. Mobile check-in and guest communication through Messenger
Mobile check-in It reduces or eliminates the need for face-to-face interaction. It also allows more freedom and flexibility when customers arrive and when their rooms arrive. At the same time, it prevents queues and other delays at reception desks and – in case of health issues – limits people’s exposure.
However, hotels still want to connect with their customers. Although mobile access and other technologies have reduced traditional touch points.
Sending guests Solve this, but it has been found that people are not interested in using a hotel-specific app. They prefer to connect through the apps they already use. Following customer preferences improves business-customer communication and makes it easier for the customer to manage reservations. This functionality is often combined with AI in the form of chatbots.
In addition, the industry is suffering from a labor crisis in 2022. Mobile-check, messaging and chatbots help to reduce or balance this deficit.
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