5 Steps to Consider Before Investing in New Hotel Technology – If you’re a hotelier looking for ways to improve your business and stay ahead of the competition, you may be interested in RFID hotel key technology. This technology is becoming increasingly popular, as it has many benefits that can help hotels run more efficiently. RFID Hotel Key Cards are new technology cards that guests can use to unlock their hotel room doors.
1. Design
Hotels should consider the design of RFID Key Cards when searching for new technology. The design should be simple and elegant while also withstand wear and tear. RFID key cards come in many different designs, so selecting the one best suits your hotel’s needs is vital.
There are two main types of RFID key cards;
- Active RFID key cards
Active hotel key cards have a battery and send out a signal. These key cards are more expensive but offer a more extended read range and are more durable.
- Passive RFID key cards
Passive key cards do not have a battery and rely on the power from the RFID reader. The reader sends a signal that activates the card, which then sends back its signal. Passive RFID key cards are less expensive than active RFID key cards, but they have a shorter read range.
The design of RFID key cards is essential for two reasons. First, the overall aesthetics of the card will be a factor in the guests’ experience. Second, the design should withstand the rigors of day-to-day use, e.g., being dropped or thrown in a purse or wallet.
2. Manufacturing
Hotels should consider the quality of RFID hotel key cards during their manufacturing. The manufacturing process should meet international standards to ensure the cards are durable and long-lasting. For example, the cards should be made with PVC at least 0.76mm thick for durability.
There are two types of RFID tags;
- Read-only tags
Read-only RFID tags can store a small amount of data that cannot be changed.
- Read/write tags
Read/write RFID tags can store more data than read-only RFID tags, and their data can be rewritten.
The needs of the hotel will determine the type of RFID tag used. For example, a read-only RFID tag should be used for guest identification. However, a read/write RFID tag should be used for storing guest preferences or other data.
3. Distribution
The distribution of RFID key cards is an essential consideration for hotels. The cards should be shipped from the manufacturer to the hotel securely and promptly. They should also be stored in a safe and secure location at the hotel until they are ready to be used.
Air, land, and sea methods ship RFID key cards. The size and weight of the shipment determine the shipping method. The distribution of RFID key cards is an essential consideration for hotels because the cards are a valuable asset. The cards should be shipped and stored in a manner that will protect them from damage or theft.
4. Try before you commit
The complexity of integrating multiple systems is probably the biggest problem hoteliers face when deciding which technologies to invest in. Integration difficulties, coupled with high costs, mean that choosing a solution that works smoothly with existing systems can be costly and diminish returns on investment.
More and more hotels prefer plug and play solutions to test technology and assess returns. Once the concept is proven to meet objectives (which in most cases is superior guest satisfaction) then hoteliers can think of seamless integration with their other systems.
5. Get to know your guests first
The concept of putting the customer first is not new, but knowing how to stay relevant requires staying up to date with their evolving needs. Implementing the right technology allows hotels to focus on modern needs beyond what traditionally makes good service, such as offering travelers mobile check-in and check-out, virtual concierges and one-touch access to room facilities.
Tink Labs’ mobile hospitality solution, handy, provides hotel connectedness to guests inside or outside the property, ability to promote services that guests value, and access to guest analytics to gain a more comprehensive picture of how guests like to be served.
Final Thoughts
5 Steps to Consider Before Investing in New Hotel Technology – RFID Hotel Key Cards offer many benefits to hotels, including the ability to track guest preferences and simplify the check-in process. Hotels should consider the design, manufacturing, and distribution of RFID key cards when searching for new technology.
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