Journal of Hotel and Business Management
Open Access

The Impact of Smart Room Technology on Guest Experience

Dmitrij Jenness^{* *}Correspondence: Dmitrij Jenness, Department of Economics, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam, Email:

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Description

In the ever changing environment of the hospitality industry, technological innovations are reshaping the way guests experience their stay. Smart room technology, encompassing a range of interconnected devices and systems, has emerged as a key player in enhancing guest satisfaction and overall comfort. This article explores the impact of smart room technology on the guest experience, from convenience and personalization to sustainability and security. Smart room technology begins its impact on the guest experience right from the check-in process. Automated check-in kiosks, mobile check-ins, and keyless entry systems allow guests to bypass traditional front desks, streamlining the arrival experience. Additionally, these systems enable hotels to gather guest preferences, creating an opportunity for personalization throughout the stay. From room temperature settings to preferred lighting, smart rooms can be customized to meet individual guest needs.

Smart room technology in hotels

Smart lighting and climate control: One of the significant contributions of smart technology to guest comfort is the ability to control lighting and climate settings with ease. Smart lighting systems allow guests to adjust the ambiance of their rooms according to their preferences, whether it be for relaxation, work, or sleep. Similarly, smart climate control systems enable guests to set the room temperature to their liking, enhancing overall comfort and satisfaction.

Voice-activated assistants and virtual concierge services: The integration of voice-activated assistants, such as Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant, brings a new level of convenience to hotel rooms. Guests can use voice commands to control various room functions, request information, or even place orders for room service. Virtual concierge services powered by artificial intelligence provide guests with instant access to information about the hotel amenities, local attractions, and personalized recommendations, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Entertainment on-demand: Smart room technology has transformed the way guests access and enjoy entertainment during their stay. High-definition smart TVs with streaming capabilities allow guests to watch their favorite shows and movies using popular streaming services. Some systems even enable guests to seamlessly switch between their personal streaming accounts, providing a home-like entertainment experience.

Integrated room control systems: Smart room technology goes beyond individual devices, offering integrated room control systems that bring together various functionalities. These systems often include centralized control panels or mobile apps that allow guests to manage lighting, temperature, curtains, and entertainment systems from a single interface. This simplifies the guest experience and enhances the feeling of being in control of their environment.

Enhanced security features: Security is a paramount concern for both guests and hotels. Smart room technology contributes to enhanced security through features such as keyless entry systems, biometric authentication, and smart doorbell cameras. Keyless entry systems reduce the risk of lost or stolen physical keys, while biometric authentication adds an extra layer of security. Smart doorbell cameras provide guests with a visual confirmation of visitors before opening the door, enhancing overall safety.

Energy efficiency and sustainability: Smart room technology plays a important role in promoting sustainability within the hospitality sector. Automated lighting and climate control systems optimize energy usage by adjusting settings based on guest occupancy and preferences. Additionally, smart sensors can detect when a room is unoccupied, automatically adjusting temperature and lighting to conserve energy. By embracing energy-efficient technologies, hotels contribute to environmental sustainability while potentially reducing operational costs.

Streamlined room service and housekeeping: Smart room technology facilitates more efficient room service and housekeeping operations. Guests can use mobile apps or inroom tablets to place orders for room service, schedule housekeeping, or request additional amenities. This streamlined communication improves the overall guest experience by reducing response times and ensuring that guest requests are fulfilled promptly.

Data analytics for personalized services: The data collected through smart room technology provides valuable insights into guest behavior and preferences. Hotels can leverage analytics to understand guest preferences, track trends, and customise services accordingly. This data-driven approach enables hotels to anticipate guest needs, personalize offerings, and create a more memorable and satisfying experience for each guest.

Enhanced connectivity and workspaces: As the lines between work and leisure blur, many guests appreciate the convenience of having a well-equipped workspace in their hotel rooms. Smart room technology facilitates enhanced connectivity with highspeed Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and smart desks equipped with built-in power outlets. This caters to the needs of business travelers and remote workers, creating a versatile environment that accommodates both work and relaxation.

Conclusion

Smart room technology has undoubtedly revolutionized the hospitality industry, offering a myriad of benefits that directly impact the guest experience. From the moment of check-in to personalized room settings, entertainment options, and enhanced security features, the integration of smart technology creates a seamless and enjoyable stay for guests. As the industry continues to innovate, embracing smart room technology will not only meet evolving guest expectations but also position hotels at the forefront of the modern hospitality. By prioritizing convenience, personalization, and sustainability, smart room technology is reshaping the way guests perceive and engage with their accommodation, ushering in a new era of hospitality experiences.