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Though the Internet of Things (IoT) can appear daunting and has often been shrouded in mystery, many hotels and other facilities are seeing the benefits of operating their properties with its help.

IoT is not nearly as complex as many would think. In general, physical objects are embedded with sensors that enable them to send data and receive data from other devices or systems. This is done via the internet or other networks and does not require human intervention. IoT devices then share the sensor data through an IoT gateway. This process allows a system to act on the data it receives, whether by sending out an alert, adjusting a setting on another device, or monitoring and recording the information for reporting and use at a later date.

By connecting various systems with the internet via these embedded sensors, properties have the ability to promote safety, limit interruptions or costly downtime, prevent equipment or property damage, improve efficiency, reduce operating costs, and protect guests and employees alike.

Solutions that allow hoteliers to manage and monitor all of their IoT-based systems, immediately prove beneficial by providing seamless communication between multiple systems and centralized control, and by streamlining operational efficiency, resulting in guest service improvement. Let’s review some of the benefits even one property can receive from these types of sensor application solutions.

Convenience

With IoT door locks, guests can change rooms or extend their stays without having to visit the front desk. For inventory management, service requests can be generated to refill stock and then a notification can be sent when the order is completed.

Security

IoT door locks also have the ability to send door ajar alerts to minimize security risks. Through the use of IoT housekeeping panic buttons, properties can protect their staff members by alerting security in the case of an emergency and accurately reporting their location.

Health and Safety

By making sure the property is meeting indoor air quality regulations, it can protect the health of both guests and staff members. Properties can also monitor water temperatures and ensure they are in the correct range to avoid bacteria growth or water contamination. By also monitoring the temperatures for areas like walk-in coolers and freezers, users can maintain proper food safety across the property and ensure health agency compliance. With HVAC system monitoring, they can also provide proper air quality and ventilation.

Predictive Maintenance

Equipment like compressors and pumps can be monitored to prevent failures and reduce downtime. By alerting staff where water may be present near electrical equipment or appliances, costly repairs can be avoided and more extensive damage can be prevented. The maintenance team can also be notified when to replace air filters to maintain air quality.

Cost Savings

By combining IoT door locks with IoT thermostats and motion sensors, properties can implement temperature controls and manage energy use. Additionally, by tracking high-value indoor assets with 24/7 on-demand location reporting, organizations can improve business efficiency and reduce operating costs. Further, with monitoring, the facility can optimize its HVAC system and reduce operating costs.

Why do I Need a Solution to Manage and Monitor IoT-based Systems and Where do I Start?

IoT is one of the most influential technologies to affect the hospitality industry in many years. Solutions that provide a property with 24/7 relevant, on-demand reporting can’t help but improve business efficiency and reduce operating costs. Effective remote monitoring allows users to keep track of all aspects of their business from one system, so they can ensure their operations run smoothly and their people and assets are protected.

By using solutions like this, organizations are able to better manage their business, and better understand their guests. They operate more efficiently and accurately, and they are able to make dramatic improvements in guest service and loyalty.