provide guests with information about nearby attractions and dining options , which showcases the hotel ’ s commitment to offering comprehensive guest services .
Amenity booking : Guests can use these apps to book various hotel amenities , such as spa treatments , room service or activities , all from the convenience of their smartphones .
Service requests : They enable guests to request services , such as extra towels or room cleaning , ensuring prompt responsiveness and quality guest services .
APPS AND HOTEL BRANDING Integration of guest experience apps plays an important role in shaping hotel branding . These digital solutions enhance the hotel ’ s brand image by providing personalized and convenient services , which further portrays the hotel as responsive and careful toward their guest needs .
Moreover , building brand loyalty becomes easier as hotels consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences through these apps , solidifying trust with fast , easy and innovative guest services . The technology also fosters values like sustainability , as it provides a virtual alternative to the traditional management and delivery of its services . For example , guests can have keyless access to their hotel rooms or information regarding the hotel ’ s amenities , all in one place . This removes the need for collateral or plastic key cards , reducing the hotel ’ s carbon footprint . In a competitive market , hotels with advanced guest apps stand out , attracting modern travelers who prioritize convenience and personalization , which leads to stronger brand affinity . Throughout the guest ’ s journey , whether through online interactions or in-person experiences , guest-experience apps ensure brand consistency , upholding brand values and identity , which foster trust and recognition — essential elements of successful hotel branding .
IMPLEMENTATION TIPS It is crucial to have an effective implementation strategy for guestexperience apps that contributes to consistent growth in the branding of hotels . Here are some tips on how to effectively integrate guest apps into your hotel business :
➊ Choose the right app : Start by selecting an application that resonates more with your hotel ’ s brand identity and provides customization options that fulfill your hotel ’ s profile . SaaS providers offer ready-to-use solutions , complete with onboarding and training , diverse customization options and a free trial option . SaaS providers help hotels to significantly reduce the development costs of a guest app , which can range between $ 70,000 and $ 220,000 , according to Cleveroad , by simply providing it as a service .
➋ Training and adaptation : Success hinges on staff readiness to provide top-notch guest services . Prioritize comprehensive training . Even though SaaS providers offer training , ensure that the staff is up to date with the functionality of the guest app . Only a functional app and responsive staff will enable the full spectrum of benefits the guest application provides .
➌ Ensuring consistency with
branding : Emphasize seamless integration between the app and your brand strategy . Customize content and visuals to align with your hotel ’ s essence and values .
➍ Transparent communication and guest expectations : Transparently introduce the app to guests , aligning with your brand messaging . Provide clear instructions on app usage , emphasizing convenience and personalization .
➎ Measuring ROI and guest satisfaction : Implement ROI metrics and monitor key indicators like direct bookings to assess the impact of guest experience applications on the hotel ’ s operations . Integrated guest surveys provide valuable feedback . SaaS providers offer convenient analytics tools to gauge guest satisfaction and branding effectiveness .
➏ Continuous improvement : Integration is an ongoing process . Encourage regular reviews based on guest feedback , giving insights into what can be adjusted to improve your hotel ’ s image .
In the evolving realm of hospitality , guest-experience applications are critical for the branding of hotels . They seamlessly infuse technology into the guest services , fostering loyalty and trust . Embracing these applications helps hotels enhance their brand identity and secure lasting guest loyalty in a rapidly changing landscape .
Nov / Dec 2023 hotelsmag . com 59