The hospitality industry has seen a tremendous transformation over the last few decades, thanks to the rapid advancement of technology. From hotel room service to reservation bookings, every aspect of hospitality has been affected by technology in one way or another. In this blog post, we’ll explore how technology has had a positive effect on the industry and what these changes mean for hospitality professionals.
Softwares & Apps
1. The traditional method of booking a hotel room or a table at a restaurant involved a travel agent or calling to make a reservation. Nevertheless, with the breakthrough of online booking systems, a remarkable transformation has transpired. Today, customers and guests can effortlessly reserve their tables and rooms with a mere few clicks. Statistics provided by Statista reveal that in the year 2020, a striking 70% of hotel bookings worldwide were seamlessly executed through online platforms.
The evolution continues, venturing beyond the realm of booking, as the culinary landscape undergoes its own revolution. The days of perplexing paper tickets and chaotic communication within the kitchen are now a distant memory. The arrival of recipe management apps and Kitchen Display Systems (KDS) are proven to be a chef’s bestfriend. By replacing traditional paper tickets with digital screens, chefs can effortlessly monitor and navigate through orders, seamlessly accommodate modifications, and keep track of cooking times. This revolutionary software and these apps have allowed hospitality businesses to streamline their processes, bridge the gap between the bustling front and the relentless back of the house, reduce the risk of errors by staff and, most importantly, offer simplicity to their customers.
Mobile Technology
2. Mobile technology is transforming guest interactions within the realm of the hospitality industry. Propelled by the surge of mobile apps, guests are now empowered to seamlessly check in, swiftly make dinner reservations, and effortlessly order their food and drink, all through the practicality of their handheld devices. Insights from a comprehensive survey conducted by Expedia unveiled that 62% of travellers rely on their smartphones to manage their travel plans. This profound shift has not only elevated the convenience factor for customers but has also played a role in optimising and streamlining business operations.
Artificial Intelligence
3. Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly prevalent in the hospitality industry, enhancing guest experiences. A prime example is the advent of chatbots, which have emerged as invaluable allies in delivering exceptional customer service. These AI-powered chatbots possess the remarkable ability to swiftly address common guest queries and offer round-the-clock assistance, liberating precious staff time to tackle more intricate issues. According to Oracle, 73% of hotel guests have expressed a high level of comfort in engaging with AI-powered chatbots for prompt and accurate responses to their enquiries. With AI paving the way, the hospitality industry can now forge deeper connections with their consumers, ensuring unparalleled ease and satisfaction throughout their entire stay.
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Virtual Reality
4. Virtual reality (VR) is another technology that is making waves in the hospitality industry. Businesses can now craft captivating virtual tours of their venues and accommodations, immersing potential customers in a vivid, lifelike representation of what awaits them. A remarkable study conducted by IHG revealed that a staggering 61% of travellers express a heightened inclination to book a hotel that offers the immersive advantage of a virtual tour. Such technological innovation empowers guests to make well-informed decisions when selecting their accommodations or venue hires, fostering a sense of confidence and anticipation as they embark on their travelling journey or event.
Big Data Analytics
5. The collection and analysis of guest data have reached new heights with the coming of big data analytics. This advancement empowers hotels and restaurants to track guest preferences and behaviours, enabling them to deliver highly personalised experiences and targeted marketing campaigns. Research indicates that customised offers tailored to guest data can boost hotel revenue by an impressive 10% to 20%. By harnessing cutting-edge technology and adopting progressive strategies, hotels and restaurants can secure a competitive advantage in the market and attract a more extensive customer base. Ultimately, this not only fosters business success but also cultivates a sense of satisfaction and loyalty among customers.
Kitchen Tools
6. Chefs have a world of possibilities at their fingertips with forward-thinking technological tools that not only enhance their culinary skills but also streamline kitchen operations. Among these helpful tools, wireless temperature monitoring and automated labelling systems like Labl.it stand out, enabling chefs to monitor the internal temperature of food items in real-time while ensuring owners that they are compliant with government regulations. Startling statics from the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveal that around 48 million people in the United States fall ill due to foodborne illnesses each year. By utilising these advanced technological tools, chefs are empowered to streamline processes, boost creativity, and elevate efficiency levels within the bustling kitchen environment.
In conclusion, technology is rapidly changing the hospitality industry and businesses that fail to keep up risk falling behind the competition. By leveraging advanced technology and implementing innovative strategies, hotels and restaurants can gain a competitive advantage in the market and attract more guests, streamline operations, and chefs can improve their skills and stay ahead of the curve. As we continue to see new advancements in technology, it’s essential for hospitality professionals to remain informed and adapt to the changing landscape.
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