In the last years hotels and hospitality management companies worldwide shifted their focus on innovations and started investing in new technologies as solutions to simplify their traditional operations and offer their guests a more exclusive experience. Mobile check-in and check-out are popular and important in the hotel industry because they allow guests to easily handle these processes on their own, giving them more control and making them more likely to return to the same hotel. These systems not only meet the needs of customers who want a more exclusive and personalized service, but they can enhance the brand reputation.
What is mobile check-in, exactly? And why should your hotel implement a mobile app? Let’s look at some hotel technology trends and ways that mobile check-in and check-out can affect your business.
What is mobile check-in & check-out and how does it work?
The idea behind mobile check-in and check-out is pretty simple: instead of using traditional methods, like a computer or paper forms, to check in and out at the front desk, guests can do it all on their mobile phones. This means they can keep their devices with them throughout the duration of their stay, so they don't have to worry about losing their keys or IDs and they can access their room and all building amenities whenever they want, without queuing at the front desk.
Plus, a guest mobile app allows customers to easily access step-by-step check-in info and enter information about themselves into the system before arriving at their destination. The app will then send this information directly back to the hotel's servers so it can be easily registered.
A guest mobile app is also a useful hotel booking technology as it allows customers to complete their reservations online from their phones. They can select their room type, enter personal details and preferences, and even make reservation changes before arriving at the hotel and during their stay.
In addition, when guests arrive at the hotel they can automatically unlock and lock their doors, and have access to local recommendations and any special requests made before arrival (like extra towels or pillows). Mobile check-in/out and hotel booking apps also make the work of employees easier because it reduces the number of manual tasks required during each shift, allowing staff to focus on other important tasks.
What are the benefits of mobile check-in and check-out?
Hotels, vacation rentals, and hospitality management companies increasingly use mobile check-in technologies and virtual reception services due to their significant benefits for both guests and staff. Let’s see in detail all the benefits of using mobile check-in and check-out, which would not be possible with traditional check-in services:
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Better customer experience and satisfaction level: hotel booking technologies can improve customer satisfaction by allowing hotels to engage with guests directly and provide a personalized experience. A guest mobile app and mobile check-in options can increase customer loyalty and set a hotel apart from competitors. These features are becoming more important in the hospitality industry as customers expect a better experience.
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Increased marketing opportunities and revenues: including a mobile check-in service gives you the opportunity to improve your marketing, increase sales, and boost revenue. With mobile hotel check-in, you can offer your guests more activities, services, and upgrades such as luxurious spa treatments, saunas, and pools but also guided activities, discounted tours, late check-out, private parking areas, and chauffeur services, thus increasing revenue opportunities.
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Easier and faster check-in operations management: traditional check-in and check-out methods can slow down staff work and cause queues at hotel reception. Hotel mobile check-in saves time and human resources, thanks to self-service technologies and mobile phones that allow customers to carry out all operations autonomously, quickly, and easily. In addition, hotel booking apps collect all guest booking, check-in, and check-out data and integrate it with the Property Management System. This allows you to create more specific schedules and more efficient processes, saving time and reducing workload, allowing employees to focus on more important tasks.
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Strategic advantage over competitors: the hospitality industry is one of the most competitive sectors so it’s important to keep up with the latest innovations and implement digital technologies to stand out from competitors. Smaller boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and large hotel chains are implementing high-tech digital solutions and automated booking management processes. Staying behind on these trends can have a negative effect on your business, reviews, bookings, and revenue. That’s why you should use a hotel booking app and mobile check-in solutions in your hotel.
If you want to learn more about our guest mobile app features or other JurnyOS management solutions, contact us or book a demo with one of our experts. We will help you to find the solution that best suits your needs!
