Keep pace with industry trends and guest expectations

By Mandy Clarke, Editor

Guests want to feel safe and secure when they travel, they want to be assured that an accommodation has employed the highest quality security measures. The latest in high tech door lock systems are designed to strengthen security and enhance convenience for both staff and guests across a property. Most importantly they provide guests with reassurance that their safety is a priority and their privacy respected, they also appreciate the elevated level of comfort and personalised experience that the new systems off er.

Increased security

Today’s smart door locks can be operated using smartphones and keycards. The system typically uses wireless technology such as Bluetooth or wifi to communicate with a central server, which manages access permissions and provides audit trails for each lock. This allows staff to easily manage access permissions, monitor the status of each lock, and unlock doors remotely, if necessary.

Integrated systems

Some door lock systems also come with additional features such as occupancy sensors, energy-saving sett ings, and integration with other hotel systems such as room service and housekeeping. They may also be integrated with security cameras and alarm systems to provide an extra layer of protection.

A heightened sense of safety and security for guests

Steven Barnwell Sales Manager Vintech Systems agrees that when travelling away from home a guest’s biggest concern about locks is security and reliability.

And when door locks only allow authorised individuals to enter the room, it gives guests peace of mind, reduces the risk of theft , burglary and other security incidents. Many guests also have increased concerns about their privacy along with the security of their own personal information.

On this Michael Benikos CEO, Assa Abloy told us Cloud-based access management solutions are taking the industry by storm due to the far greater operational efficiencies and security protections that such platforms typically feature.

He said: “Cloud-based means no need for costly onsite servers, while automatic soft ware updates ensure that properties and their guests are always protected using the latest security protocols.

“Using a cloud-based access management system, means that properties can maintain the high-level security that today’s guests expect, while also ensuring streamlined operations that can live up to increasing demands for ever faster, more responsive service.”

Convenience

Mr Benikos said that guests “appreciate the convenience of not having to carry around a physical key”.

Instead, they embrace using their smartphones.

He said: “With many having to go contactless during the global pandemic, more and more guests are now accustomed to the instant convenience that such services provide.

“This is especially true with regards to check-in and guestroom access, with large numbers of guests now seeking out digital key services to avoid front desk lines after a long and tiring journey.”

Mr Barnwell agreed, “mobile connectivity is becoming more of the standard for operators and their guests. With the modern traveller not only travelling with their mobile phone for business but also pleasure it is becoming the preferred option for property access”.

He said: “Self-check in kiosks are another convenient solution introduced to assist and enhance guest experience at reception during the check in process.