It is fair to say that the ups and downs of 2021 were reminiscent of a rollercoaster ride. In the tourism and hotel industry, an enormous number of things have changed and changed in a very short time. Change is often positive, but when forced by negative circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic, it is harder to find positive aspects.
Technologies and trends are constantly evolving, and this year in particular, many technical solutions have not just become more popular, but have proven to be vital for hotel companies around the world. Based on the status quo and the current needs of tourism and hotel companies, we can already predict a number of technological trends that will affect the development of the industry as a whole, internal hotel processes and the guest experience. Let’s take a closer look at the key technology trends in tourism for 2022 and see why they are undoubtedly becoming more relevant and popular.
Contactless communication
“Contactless” was THE catchphrase of the last few months, which of course has to do with the restrictions and distance rules due to COVID-19. Companies in the hotel industry are naturally dependent on personal contacts, which is why it was a challenge to maintain relationships with guests via contactless communication. However, new, innovative technologies can support safe interaction between hotels and guests. A direct messaging solution is the best way to stay in touch with guests throughout the trip, especially while they are on site. This also makes it easier to make communication open and personal, while consistently adhering to recommended distances and strict security rules. Hoteliers need to understand that the need for communication is currently higher than ever. Travelers have many additional questions and worries that weigh on them and they look confidently at the hotel of their choice for continuous orientation and reassurance. For this reason, digital communication is and remains the best solution for numerous challenges, from the optimization and efficiency of internal processes to the seamless exchange of information and the real, visible interest in the well-being of guests.
Independent check-in & self-service
Running independently as much as possible to avoid security risks and, potentially more importantly, to protect internal resources such as hotel staff, of which there are currently fewer than ever before. However, you should make sure that you convey and communicate clearly and understandably how the independent check-in works or how to use certain services, and that you are always available to support you if necessary.
Integrated instant solutions
In view of the ongoing pandemic, efficiency plays an even more central role in the day-to-day operations of hotels. With recurring lockdowns, short-time working and budget cuts, it is not an easy task to use complex technological solutions efficiently and time-effectively and to achieve optimal results. For this reason, the success of integrated instant solutions is expected to continue in 2022. Of course, every hotel software has a specific purpose. But only when several systems are synchronized and connected can they offer a clear overview and achieve the best possible results. Whether maintenance systems, systems for interacting with guests or for analyzing feedback or sales: It always depends on the connection. Take, for example, the TrustYou feedback platform, that integrates multiple solutions in one system and enables hoteliers to collect reviews, analyze and respond to feedback, interact with guests, promote their strengths, make smart decisions and make sensible investments – from one central location. The seamless integration of different solutions ensures that problems of all kinds are tackled and resolved promptly, so that guests have the best possible hotel stay even in difficult times.
Virtual reality
Virtual Reality has been around for a while, but is no longer viewed with suspicion. This year the tourism and hotel industry discussed again what value virtual reality (VR) has or can have. When you consider how many vacation plans had to be postponed due to the COVID crisis, travelers and hoteliers are definitely missing out on a lot. We dare to venture into vacation plans with great caution, either due to travel restrictions or simply out of fear of leaving our safe home. But the wanderlust is still there, of course, possibly even more noticeable than ever before. VR can help here and be integrated into the marketing strategy of a hotel. We have never had a better and more effective way to inspire the desire to travel, than with virtual reality. Hotels can give a foretaste of the accommodation, the rooms, the location, the dream beaches or pool areas, the breathtaking view and everything else that visually appeals to potential guests and may motivate them to book the hotel when they travel as usual again. One could go one step further and present the new hygiene and safety measures that the hotel has taken. Show travelers how important they are to you and to what extent you are committed to the safety and well-being of your guests. Book the hotel when you travel as usual. One could go one step further and present the new hygiene and safety measures that the hotel has taken. Show travelers how important they are to you and to what extent you are committed to the safety and well-being of your guests. Book the hotel when you travel as usual. One could go one step further and present the new hygiene and safety measures that the hotel has taken. Show travelers how important they are to you and to what extent you are committed to the safety and well-being of your guests.
It remains to be seen what 2022 will bring us. And while we all view the New Year with a certain degree of caution, technology is always a spark of excitement. Wherever problems arise, there are solutions. And we look forward to finding out what the tourism and hotel industries can expect – despite all adversities. Our industry is resilient, and so are we. Cheers to a better new year!
PS: keep checking back and keep an eye out for a big, exciting product launch that we will present in early 2022! We are further developing our exclusive technology for feedback management and making sure that you can use the best possible methods to get back on the road to success as early as possible!
