Infrastructure:

Networking: Implement enterprise-grade networking equipment such as routers, switches, and access points from vendors like Cisco or Aruba.

Servers: Utilize virtualization technology with servers from companies like Dell or HP to host critical applications and services.

Data Storage: Employ scalable and redundant storage solutions like network-attached storage (NAS) or storage area networks (SANs) from providers such as NetApp or EMC.

Internet Connectivity:

High-Speed Wi-Fi: Deploy commercial-grade wireless access points (WAPs) such as those from Ubiquiti or Ruckus to ensure reliable coverage throughout the hotel.

Broadband Connection: Partner with ISPs to establish dedicated high-speed internet connections capable of handling concurrent guest and staff usage.

Property Management System (PMS):

Examples: Consider industry-leading PMS solutions like Oracle Hospitality OPERA, Amadeus Hospitality's HotSOS, or Protel's Property Management System.

Features: Look for features like central reservation management, real-time inventory updates, guest profiles, and reporting/analytics tools.

Guest Room Technology:

Smart TVs: Install smart TVs from manufacturers such as Samsung or LG with built-in streaming capabilities and interactive features.

Digital Thermostats: Use smart thermostats like those from Nest or Ecobee for energy efficiency and guest comfort control.

Electronic Door Locks: Implement RFID or Bluetooth-enabled door locks from companies like Assa Abloy or Dormakaba for keyless entry and enhanced security.

Guest Experience Enhancements:

Mobile Check-in/Check-out: Integrate with mobile apps or PMS platforms to allow guests to check-in and check-out using their smartphones.

Keyless Entry: Offer mobile key solutions such as those provided by companies like OpenKey or ASSA ABLOY Hospitality for seamless access to guest rooms.

In-Room Tablets: Install tablets from vendors like Intelity or SuitePad for guests to access hotel services, control room amenities, and explore local attractions.

Security:

Firewalls: Deploy enterprise-grade firewalls such as Cisco ASA or Palo Alto Networks' Next-Generation Firewalls to protect the network perimeter.

Antivirus Software: Install endpoint protection solutions like Symantec Endpoint Protection or McAfee Endpoint Security to safeguard against malware and viruses.

Encryption: Utilize encryption technologies such as SSL/TLS for securing data in transit and solutions like BitLocker or VeraCrypt for data-at-rest encryption.

Telecommunications:

VoIP Phone System: Implement VoIP solutions like RingCentral or 3CX for cost-effective and feature-rich telephony services.

Unified Communications: Integrate with collaboration platforms such as Microsoft Teams or Zoom for unified messaging, video conferencing, and file sharing.

Audio-Visual Systems:

Projection Systems: Install high-definition projectors from brands like Epson or Sony for presentations and multimedia content.

Sound Systems: Use professional-grade audio systems such as those from Bose or JBL for clear and immersive sound quality.

Energy Management Systems:

Smart Thermostats: Deploy energy management systems like Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure or Siemens Desigo for automated HVAC control and energy optimization.

LED Lighting: Install LED lighting solutions with smart controls from companies like Philips Lighting or Lutron for energy-efficient illumination.

Data Analytics:

Analytics Platforms: Utilize analytics platforms such as IBM Cognos or Tableau for collecting, analyzing, and visualizing guest and operational data.

Guest Feedback Systems: Implement guest feedback solutions like Medallia or ReviewPro to gather insights and improve service quality based on guest reviews and feedback.

Training and Support:

Training Programs: Develop customized training programs for staff covering IT systems, guest service protocols, and troubleshooting procedures.

IT Helpdesk: Establish an IT helpdesk or support team to provide assistance and technical support to staff and guests around the clock.

Compliance and Regulations:

Data Privacy: Ensure compliance with regulations such as GDPR or CCPA by implementing data protection measures and obtaining necessary consent for guest data processing.

Accessibility: Adhere to accessibility standards such as WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) to ensure digital accessibility for guests with disabilities.

While we have highlighted key options and brands in this overview, there are many more available in the market. Each hotel's requirements, budget, and compatibility may vary, so it's essential to assess what best fits your specific needs and constraints.

The hotel industry is undergoing a significant transformation, largely influenced by technological advancements. Here are several key trends in hotel IT services that are shaping this evolution:

 

Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is revolutionizing various hotel operations, from guest services to revenue management. Chatbots powered by AI provide round-the-clock customer support, while AI algorithms assist in optimizing room rates and predicting trends.

 

Internet of Things (IoT): Hotels are leveraging IoT to connect devices like thermostats, lights, and locks, enabling them to gather valuable guest behavior data. This data helps in tailoring the guest experience; for instance, adjusting room temperatures based on individual preferences.

 

Voice Assistants: Popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant are being integrated into hotel systems. Guests can now use voice commands to control room features such as lights and temperature.

 

Mobile Apps: Mobile apps have become a necessity for hotels, allowing guests to book rooms, check-in, and access various services conveniently from their smartphones.

 

Data Analytics: With the influx of guest and operational data, hotels are increasingly relying on analytics to identify trends, streamline operations, and enhance guest satisfaction.

 

Contactless Payments: The prevalence of contactless payments is reshaping transactions within hotels, offering guests a secure and hassle-free payment experience.

 

Robotic Services: Hotels are employing robots to perform tasks like delivering items, cleaning rooms, and providing information to guests, offering both futuristic experiences and operational efficiency.

 

Chatbots: AI-driven chatbots are transforming customer service, offering personalized interactions, and multilingual support, thereby enhancing guest satisfaction.

 

Immersive Experiences with AR and VR: Augmented and virtual reality technologies are enhancing guest engagement, providing interactive experiences such as virtual tours and immersive environments.

 

Hotechxcellence Hotel IT Consulting specializes in assisting hotels in adopting and integrating these cutting-edge technologies, helping them choose the right solutions and seamlessly incorporate them into their existing systems.

What can be the cost of a telephone system!! That was the question the Ownership asked HotechXcellence consultancy.

The case started when HotechXcellence was hired to execute the opening of a High end Hotel brand, and while studying the subcontractor’s offers and revising the construction consultant’s designs and project progress from the Information Technology perspective, we found out that the original telephone system ordered was an outdated system and the owners instructed the construction consultant company to remove the system and the phones by a change order.

HotechXcellence questioned the decision and asked what were the options presented after that by the construction consultant? Just to find out that they were not offered any replacement or even recommended a solution. And when the questions were raised, the construction consultant answers were, we thought it is no more needed, and the owner’s answer was : we didn’t know that it was removed and not replaced, but where is the problem? How much is the Telephone System?

At that moment, HotechXcellence explained to ownership that it is not only about money, or the Telephone System. As there are other aspects to be considered: the network will have to be modified to accommodate the new system, new design to be planned and implemented, different securities to be injected into the firewall and the network, as well as coordinating with the telephone providers and other critical aspects to be covered. But all went smooth, as HotechXcellence consultancy took ownership to correct all the problems.

The Hotel owners were really appreciative and thankful that they hired HotechXcellence on the right time, before they open their doors to their valuable guests and start their business with bad reputation and unsatisfied guests. As the telephone systems are not considered only a communication tool, but a safety standard.

The point of sale is Hotels is an essential and critical game changer. It can either make your operation a success or a nightmare, specially for the Front office and According teams. Usually everyone considers how the Food and Beverage operations responds and reflects on the software, but this time we will look from the other departments perspective.

The application can be great for a restaurant chain, or a standalone brand. That never means that it will fit in a Hotel environment, yes the hosts, on ground manager may enjoy a fancy GUI with easy of access to menu item modifications, creation or other features. But your Front desk and accounting teams may be at an edge. If your selected POS is not fully interfaced with Your Property Management Software (PMS), your front desk may get challenged with a lot of issues, as an example; not being able to view the detailed cheques and provide it to the guest when required. Or If your guest is a cash only, the restaurant hosts may provide a paid service without knowing (as the system didn’t show that) and the guest can fight it at checkout and the Hotel loses this revenue. From accounting perspective, every detail matters for reconciliation and auditing. For example; the detailed cheques from the PMS, not the POS. The end of day reports and balancing it with the PMS making sure no lost revenue. The posting groups, Itemizers and their breakdown are well interfaced with the PMS, otherwise a lot of manual process will be required and the accounting team will waste time trying to trace a void, correct a refund or check if payments were posted to the correct tender media or no.

A lot of examples whereby Hotel Owners had to implement or change POS after the fact, and it cost them more to correct, versus building it right from the start. At HotechXcellence we help Hotel owners to start right and save that extra unnecessary expense and wasted time.