Hotel Trends: The Internet of Things

Technology advances at an incredible rate and the hospitality industry has continually benefited from these advances. Everything from online booking to rewards systems integrated into online accounts has made things much more convenient for guests, hotel employees, and hoteliers alike. One technology that is steadily gaining traction is implementing the “Internet of Things” into hotel rooms. But what is the Internet of Things and how can it help hotels? Let’s learn more.

What is the Internet of Things?

First things first, what exactly are we talking about when we say “the Internet of Things?” This phrase is used to collectively describe various devices that are connected and communicating with each other through the Internet. This connectivity and communication is able to create new experiences for guests and make things easier for hotel employees.

How to Implement it in Your Hotel

Integrating the Internet of Things in your hotel’s current operating systems isn’t overly complicated, but it can get expensive. This is one thing to keep in mind when considering making the move. Also, keep in mind, this trend is unlikely to go away anytime soon and may become an expected part of the more upscale hotel experience, and possibly mid-scale as the technology becomes cheaper to produce. When you implement the Internet of Things in a hotel, there is a wide variety of uses to take advantage of. Here are a few:

Regulation of All Systems

With the Internet of Things implemented in your hotel, you’ll have easy access to all of your systems and utilities. Thermostats and HVAC systems will auto-adjust based on humidity and whether or not guests are present. System failures will be communicated to your staff immediately without a guest having to call and notify the front desk. Lighting systems will be regulated and turned off when not in use. Having all of these systems connected and automated saves you money, but also gives the guest a sense of luxury. It’s a win-win situation.

Remote Management

With all of your systems connected, you’ll be able to see what’s going on in every part of your hotel in real-time. Front desk, concierge, housekeeping, security, and more will all be connected and sending data to each other. This allows you to get a better handle on your operations and identify where inefficiencies might be.

Restaurant Control

If you have a restaurant in your hotel, the IOT can help with that too. Being connected to cooking devices allows for better quality control. The devices can notify chefs when food is done, and smart refrigeration systems can adjust temperatures to save on utility bills. Also, it can notify you when you need to restock on certain items.

These are just a few examples of what the Internet of Things can do for the hospitality industry. This technology continues to grow and will surely offer even more benefits to the hotel industry in the years to come.

Contact Our Hospitality Brokers

When it comes to knowledge and expertise in the hospitality industry, the hospitality brokers at Southeast International Hotel Brokers are leading the charge. If you’re looking to buy or sell your hotel, you want someone by your side with that level of expertise. We’re dedicated to making the buying and selling process as easy as possible for our clients. Contact us today to speak with a member of the hospitality broker team.