Every month our colleague Bridget Donofrio offers us, directly from the VDA Telkonet headquarters in the United States, her personal point of view on the latest innovations in terms of technology, sustainability and energy saving to help hotel and non-hotel establishments remain competitive.
Let’s read together her article for Bridget’s Suite, October 2023.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN HOTELS
Have you ever heard of Oxford Dictionary’s Word of the Year? Well, this English major pays attention to these things! Every year the Oxford Dictionary folks choose a winner judged to “reflect the ethos, mood, or preoccupations of that particular year and to have lasting potential as a word of cultural significance.” Last year, it was “oblin mode.” In 2021 it was “vax.” 2019 it was “climate emergency.”
I have an idea for the next Word of the Year: Artificial Intelligence, or AI.
Within the last 10 years or so, technological advancements have transformed virtually all industries, including our sector: hospitality.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a game-changer, revolutionizing the way hotels operate, enhance guest experiences, and streamline their operations. With its ability to automate mundane tasks, provide personalized services, and offer real-time assistance, AI has become an indispensable tool for hotels aiming to stay ahead in the competitive market.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into AI in hotels and explore the benefits it brings to guests, hoteliers, and their employees
ENHANCED GUEST EXPERIENCES
One of the most significant advantages of AI in hotels is its ability to create personalized experiences for guests.
AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants have become common features on hotel websites and mobile apps, offering around-the-clock support to guests. These systems can effectively handle frequently asked questions, provide information about hotel amenities, nearby attractions, and even make reservations. By automating these processes, guests can access instant assistance any time of the day or night, ensuring exceptional service and guest satisfaction.
EFFICIENT OPERATIONS AND STREAMLINED SERVICES
AI technology enables hotels to streamline their operations, leading to increased efficiency and cost savings.
Smart room management systems – both energy management systems and guest room management systems – powered by AI can monitor energy consumption, regulate temperatures, and improve security by detecting anomalies. Intelligent revenue management systems utilize AI algorithms to analyze data and optimize pricing strategies, maximizing profitability. Additionally, AI-powered housekeeping robots can efficiently navigate through hotel corridors, ensuring swift and thorough cleaning, reducing the workload of staff, and enhancing overall efficiency.
SEAMLESS CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT PROCESSES
Traditional check-in and check-out processes can often be time-consuming and tedious for guests. However, AI has paved the way for seamless and contactless experiences.
Many hotels now offer self-check-in kiosks, which streamline the process, minimize wait times, and provide a hassle-free experience for guests. I use facial recognition software on my iPhone and PC. This technology is also gaining popularity in hotels, allowing guests to complete the check-in process swiftly, further enhancing convenience and efficiency.
SMART PERSONALIZATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
AI technology in energy management systems and guest room management systems excels in collecting and analyzing vast amounts of data, enabling hotels to provide personalized recommendations and tailored experiences.
By leveraging guest profiles, preferences, and behavioral data, AI algorithms can suggest personalized dining options, spa treatments, or nearby attractions that align with guests’ interests. This level of customization creates a unique and memorable experience, fostering guest loyalty and increasing the likelihood of repeat visits.
IMPROVED SAFETY AND SECURITY
Safety and security are paramount in the hospitality industry, and AI plays a crucial role in enhancing these aspects. AI-powered surveillance systems with facial recognition capabilities can detect and prevent potential security breaches, ensuring a safe environment for guests and staff.
Additionally, AI algorithms can analyze data from various sources, such as social media and online reviews, to identify potential risks or issues, allowing hotel management to proactively address them.
“Artificial Intelligence” gets my vote for Word of the Year. It has uniquely transformed the hotel industry, empowering hoteliers to provide exceptional guest experiences while optimizing operations. From personalized services and seamless check-ins to enhanced safety measures, AI has become an invaluable tool for hotels striving to meet the evolving needs and expectations of modern travelers. As this technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative applications in the future, further revolutionizing the hospitality sector and ensuring memorable stays for guests worldwide.
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