OCTOPUS on the future of the hotel experience:
The receptionless hotel.
As technology constantly evolves, we also see that traditional business models and service industries are changing. One example of this development is in the hotel industry, where new technologies and innovative approaches challenge the conventional perceptions of what a hotel stay entails.
An exciting concept that is gaining increasing popularity is the receptionless hotel.
Automation and efficiency
Running a receptionless hotel does not mean that there is no form of service or staff available. Instead, technology is used to minimize the need for manual work by the staff, which can easily be handled automatically through digital systems – this gives the staff time to provide better personalized service as well as time for other tasks.
One key component of this concept is the use of electronic locks that can be opened with a PIN code instead of a traditional key or card. This technology gives guests access to their rooms without the need for physical key handover or contact with a receptionist.
Prepayment provides security and freedom A central idea in the receptionless hotel concept is prepayment. Guests pay for their stay online in advance, just as they do with other online purchases. This has several advantages – the reception does not need to spend time handling payments, and the guests experience a sense of control and flexibility. They know that their stay is already paid for, which eliminates concerns such as queues and unnecessary time spent on check-in and check-out.
Direct access with personal PIN code
On the day of check-in, guests receive a PIN code that gives them access to the hotel's entrances as well as their room for the period they have booked. This means that guests do not have to contact a receptionist to get keys.
The first time guests use the PIN code on their room door, they are automatically checked into the OCTOPUS system. This creates a simple and self-service experience for the guests, who can arrive at the hotel at any time – for example, late at night.
No hassle and waiting at the reception
Because the stay is already paid for, guests do not need to worry about standing in line at the reception to settle the bill. When they leave their room in the morning and use their PIN code, the electronic lock will automatically update the OCTOPUS system with the status that the guest has checked out and will not return. This efficient process saves time for both guests and especially the cleaning staff, who can immediately begin preparing available rooms.
Restaurant and payment options
Although the hotel is receptionless, guests are still able to use the hotel's facilities, including the restaurant. Payment in the restaurant can be made using a credit card or cash, which gives guests the freedom to choose their payment method.
Conclusion The receptionless hotel concept demonstrates how technology and automation can change the way we experience hotel stays. Although there is still a need for staff to maintain the property and assist guests when necessary, this approach eliminates unnecessary contacts and makes the entire experience more efficient and seamless. For both guests and the hotel industry, the receptionless hotel may prove to be an innovative way to adapt to today’s technological developments and increase customer satisfaction.
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