As futuristic as the technology may seem, the Internet of Things (IoT) is quickly becoming a reality in today’s hospitality landscape, with many hotels and resorts seeing benefits that are revolutionizing guest experiences, streamlining operations, and increasing revenues.
With forecasts projecting that 75% of all devices will use IoT technology worldwide by 2025 — and an estimated 25.44 billion IoT devices by 2030 — hotels that lag behind in adopting IoT solutions risk falling behind their tech-savvy competitors.
Thankfully, as advanced as IoT may be, implementing this technology has never been easier. Keep reading for our comprehensive guide on the latest trends and applications of hotel IoT solutions as well as tips for integration.
What Is the Internet of Things?
The Internet of Things is not nearly as complex as it may seem. Essentially, physical objects are embedded with network modules that enable them to send to and receive data from other devices through the internet or other networks.
IoT devices share their data through an IoT gateway, which is a device or software that acts as an intermediary between IoT devices and the cloud. This enables systems to take action based on the data they receive — for example, by sending alerts, adjusting device settings, or storing the data for later use.
Benefits of Smart Hotel IoT Solutions
By connecting various systems through embedded IoT devices, hotel properties have the ability to:
- Promote safety
- Minimize downtime
- Prevent equipment or property damage
- Improve efficiency
- Reduce operating costs
- Improve the guest experience
How Is IoT Used in the Hotel Industry?
Here are some of the most cutting-edge ways hoteliers are utilizing hotel IoT solutions for their properties:
Elevated Experience
IoT devices help take the guest experience to the next level in terms of convenience. With IoT door locks, guests can change rooms or extend their stays without having to visit the front desk. IoT can also offer personalized experiences, allowing guests to customize their room settings (such as temperature and lighting) according to their preferences and use voice-controlled assistants for in-room services (such as room service and in-room entertainment).
Streamlined Operations
Solutions that provide hotel properties with 24/7 relevant, on-demand analytics and automation capabilities can’t help but improve business efficiency. Here are just a few examples of how IoT is streamlining hotel operations:
- Automated check-ins and check-outs through IoT-enabled mobile apps reduce the workload of front desk staff.
- Occupancy monitoring devices trigger housekeeping alerts when rooms are vacant, optimizing schedules.
- Inventory monitoring IoT sensors can track levels of inventory items such as linens and toiletries and automatically trigger restocking orders when supplies are low.
Security
IoT has emerged as a powerful way to strengthen security measures for hospitality properties. For example, IoT door locks, in addition to offering convenient room access to guests, have the ability to send door ajar alerts to minimize security risks. Another popular IoT security solution is the use of panic buttons, which allow properties to protect their staff members by alerting security in the case of an emergency and accurately reporting their location. IoT sensors can also be incorporated into surveillance systems, enabling real-time monitoring and enhancing security measures.
Health and Safety
There are multiple ways hospitality IoT devices can be used for ensuring the health and well-being of guests and staff:
- HVAC monitoring can help properties meet indoor air quality regulations and proper ventilation standards.
- Water temperature monitoring ensures water is heated properly to the correct range to avoid bacteria growth or water contamination.
- Temperature monitoring in areas like walk-in coolers and freezers helps hoteliers meet food safety regulations and reduce product loss.
Predictive Maintenance
With the predictive analytics capabilities of IoT, equipment like compressors and pumps can be monitored so hotel properties can forecast equipment failures before they lead to costly downtime. IoT sensors can also alert staff to risks such as the presence of water near electrical equipment or appliances in order to prevent the damage of assets and equipment. Facilities teams can also be notified when to replace air filters and perform other routine preventive maintenance tasks.
Cost Savings
Enabling unprecedented data-sharing and automation, IoT is all about generating efficiencies for hotels. The inevitable result is a reduction in costs — saving hoteliers on energy consumption, staff expenditures, and waste on unnecessary equipment and supplies, all while extending the life of assets and preventing theft and other potentially costly risks.
Examples include:
- Properties can automatically adjust temperatures and lighting when rooms and spaces are unoccupied, thereby lowering energy bills.
- IoT sensors can help conserve water by detecting leaks or excessive water usage and enabling timely repairs that minimize water wastage.
- IoT devices can maximize productivity and reduce labor costs by streamlining operational processes such as housekeeping, inventory management, and maintenance.
- Hotels can prevent equipment failures before they lead to expensive repairs and downtime by using predictive maintenance powered by IoT technology..
- Data analytics from IoT devices provide insights into guest preferences and usage patterns, enabling hotels to allocate resources more efficiently, thereby reducing unnecessary expenses.
How to implement Hospitality IoT Solutions in Your Hotel
Looking to get started with hotel IoT? Today’s technologies make it possible to seamlessly integrated IoT devices into your hotel’s infrastructure and operations.
- Identify opportunities for IoT solutions to enhance guest experiences, streamline operations, and create efficiencies.
- Update your property’s network infrastructure and internet connectivity if needed in order to support the implementation of IoT systems.
- Select IoT devices and platforms tailored to your hotel’s needs, strategies, and specifications, such as smart room controls, energy management systems, or predictive maintenance software.
- Install and deploy IoT solutions throughout your hotel in a way that seamlessly integrates with existing systems, including property management systems or guest service platforms.
- Provide training to staff on how to use and manage IoT solutions effectively, ensuring smooth adoption and operation.
- Continuously monitor IoT systems for performance and usability, making adjustments as needed for optimization.
Elevate Your Property with Industry-Leading Hospitality IoT Solutions
IoT is one of the most influential technologies to impact the hospitality industry in years.
By using hotel IoT solutions like the ones above, properties of all kinds can improve daily operations, elevate the guest experience, increase their bottom line, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.
To get this most out of IoT, you’ll need the right infrastructure to support it. Hotel Internet Services offers robust and reliable hospitality Wi-Fi solutions, tailored to meet your specific business needs, so you can effectively leverage IoT technology and deliver top-notch service that will keep guests coming back. Learn more about our hospitality internet solutions.