The hospitality industry is changing quickly, and it’s exciting to see how new technology is transforming the way hotels operate.

One trend that’s gaining popularity but has yet to fully be embraced is the rise of autonomous lodging properties. These are properties that use innovative technology to offer guests more flexibility and convenience during their stay.

Now, you might wonder, what’s driving the rise of autonomous lodging properties? Well, the availability of new technology is one reason. With the Internet of Things (IoT) and mobile devices becoming more commonplace, hotels can offer self-service options to guests that weren’t possible before.

It’s not just about convenience, though. Hotels can also use IoT devices to track guest preferences and behavior, which allows them to provide more personalized services and experiences. Imagine having your hotel room temperature set to your preferred level even before you arrive, or getting personalized recommendations for room service based on your previous orders. Pretty cool, huh?

Another advantage of autonomous lodging properties is the flexibility they offer guests. Guests can check-in and access the room at any time, without needing to interact with hotel staff. This is especially handy if you arrive late at night or have an unpredictable travel schedule. Plus, with the ability to customize your room’s lighting, temperature, and other amenities using your mobile device, you can tailor your stay to your exact preferences.

Of course, there are some challenges that hotels face when implementing autonomous lodging properties. One of the biggest challenges is the initial investment required to install the necessary technology. It also requires robust security measures to protect guest data and prevent cyber threats and finally, we musn't forghte about the human touch.

As an industry, we must ensure that our guests feel comfortable using new and innovative technology. Not everyone was born with an iPhone in their hands and while younger guests may be familiar with self-service technologies, older guests might not be as comfortable. Hotels will also need to provide comprehensive training and support to make sure everyone can use the technology effectively.

Finally, it’s essential to balance the use of technology with providing personalized experiences for guests. While technology can offer greater convenience and flexibility, it can also create a sense of detachment. Hotels must find a balance between using technology to improve operations while still providing a warm and welcoming environment for guests. After all, it is the hospitality industry.

Overall, the rise of autonomous lodging properties is an exciting development in the hospitality industry. By embracing new technology and offering guests more flexibility and convenience, hotels can gain a competitive advantage in the market. It’s an exciting time for the industry, and I can’t wait to see what other innovations are on the horizon!

Alan Young
Hospitality Industry Advisor, College Professor, and Co-Founder of Puzzle Partner

Puzzle Partner is a marketing agency focused exclusively on complex B2B initiatives for the hospitality and travel technology innovators.

www.puzzlepartner.co