In-Room Technology: What Do Your Guests Really Care About During Their Stay?

As technology continues to transform our everyday lives, hotels around the globe are taking the opportunity to implement truly awe-inspiring technology into their rooms.

This technology not only impresses the guests who stay at these luxe properties, but it also adds an element of convenience that improves the guest experience in ways not seen before in the hotel industry.
At the Hotel 1000 in Seattle, for example, electronic doorbells have been installed in guest rooms that can scan the room and identify if a guest is present with heat technology. According to Travel Tripper, if housekeeping and other hospitality staff members identify someone in the room, they simply leave the guest be. No more “Housekeeping!” knocks on the door when you are resting peacefully on the first morning of your vacation!
At Yotel in New York City, there’s a premier suite at the property that features a luxurious king-sized bed that can rotate toward the panoramic window in the morning, giving guests pristine views of the Big Apple’s skyline. If guests prefer to watch a show or movie, however, they can stream their favorite multimedia content on the impressive techno walls in the room.

While these are certainly impressive technological feats, they obviously are not possible for every hotel. However, even as a small hotel operator, there are technological advancements that you can implement at your property. Here’s what the average guest is looking for out of hotel room technology:

• Interactive TV — Many guests book a hotel that is going to feel like home to them while they are away, and this usually means that they like to relax with TV at some point during their stay. Interactive TVs with streaming capabilities and program guides are a necessary technology component at your hotel.
• Text Messaging Services — Automated text messages that provide details about a guest stays or providing guests with the ability to check-in and check-out via text message are becoming more commonplace in the hotel industry. Guests love the convenience of text messaging, and Millennials in particular prefer these services.
• Mobile apps — By designing a mobile app specifically for your property, you allow guests to control and customize their own experience. Mobile apps can provide local guides to the area, the ability to order room service or the ability to communicate with hotel staff.
• Charging stations and outlets — Travelers almost always pack their smart phones and tablets, and they rely on them heavily while they are away. Not only should you incorporate several outlets into each guest room, but you also should create a charging station area in a common location on your property. The lobby is often the best place to do this, so guests can charge their favorite devices while they are lounging, socializing or waiting for their next excursion.

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in the overall travel experience, particularly in hotels, motels and bed and breakfast properties. To learn more about the technology options that can improve your small hotel and to keep up-to-date on industry trends, subscribe to our blog today.