7 Types of Digital Guest Apps to Streamline the Guest Journey From Check-In To Check-Out

By Adam Hollander

Last updated July 17, 2023

8 min read


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Creating a digital guest journey from check-in to check-out is important for hotels because it allows them to provide a more efficient and personalized experience for their guests. By streamlining the check-in process and providing guests with digital tools to manage their stay, hotels can reduce wait times and improve customer satisfaction. Additionally, digital guest journeys can help hotels collect valuable data about their guests, which can be used to improve services and target marketing efforts.

Hotels are now offering a more convenient and efficient check-in process for guests. Before arriving, guests can fill out a digital check-in form to save time at the front desk. Upon arrival, guests can use their mobile device to scan a QR code at the front desk to quickly check-in and receive their room key. Guests can also use their mobile device to unlock their room door and control the temperature, lighting, and other amenities in their room. Additionally, guests can order room service directly from their mobile device. When it's time to check-out, guests can do so directly from their mobile device and receive an electronic receipt. Finally, guests receive a survey via email or text message to provide feedback on their stay.

 

 

1. Contactless Check In Software

Provide guests with a seamless self checkin experience like airports and grocery stores

Hotels are now offering a more convenient and efficient experience for their guests with contactless check-in, automated room access, a digital concierge service, automated check-out, and digital feedback. Guests can use their mobile device to check-in and receive their room key digitally, unlock their room door, access a digital concierge service to book activities, order room service, and more. They can also check-out digitally and receive their final bill via email, as well as provide feedback on their stay via a digital survey.

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THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
100 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Improve the guest experience, increase revenue and streamline operations with Contactless Check-In™ from Canary, the world's most popular self-service check-in solution.
Product logo
Canary Contactless Check-In Contactless Check-in
THE PITCH
RATINGS
100 HT Score
Improve the guest experience, increase revenue and streamline operations with Contactless Check-In™ from Canary, the world's most popular self-service check-in solution.
Learn More
Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
99 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Offer your guests to check-in online before their arrival so they can skip the long lines at reception! Contactless is the new standard.
Product logo
Duve - Online Check-in Contactless Check-in
THE PITCH
RATINGS
99 HT Score
Offer your guests to check-in online before their arrival so they can skip the long lines at reception! Contactless is the new standard.
Learn More
Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
0 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Enable guests to bypass the front desk with contactless mobile check-in and check-out experience.
Product logo
INTELITY Mobile Check-in Contactless Check-in
THE PITCH
RATINGS
0 HT Score
Enable guests to bypass the front desk with contactless mobile check-in and check-out experience.
Learn More

Hotels that create a digital guest journey from check-in to check-out will outperform those who do not in the coming years by providing a more efficient and personalized experience for their guests. By utilizing digital technologies such as mobile check-in, digital key cards, and automated check-out, hotels can streamline the guest experience and reduce wait times. Additionally, digital guest journeys can provide guests with personalized recommendations and offers based on their preferences, allowing hotels to better target their services and increase customer satisfaction. Finally, digital guest journeys can help hotels collect valuable data about their guests, allowing them to better understand their needs and preferences and improve their services accordingly.

 

 

2. Mobile Key Software

Let guests access their room with a digital key right from their mobile device

Mobile key software helps hotels create a digital guest journey from check-in to check-out by providing guests with a secure and convenient way to access their room. Guests can use their mobile device to check-in, receive their room key, and access their room without having to wait in line or interact with hotel staff. Guests can also use their mobile device to check-out, receive their bill, and pay for their stay without having to wait in line or interact with hotel staff. This digital guest journey helps to streamline the check-in and check-out process, making it more efficient and secure for both guests and hotel staff.

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THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
90 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Mobile Access offers guests a whole new hotel experience. Convenient and secure, there's no need for physical keys or keycards.
Product logo
Mobile Access by ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions Mobile Key & Keyless Entry
THE PITCH
RATINGS
90 HT Score
Mobile Access offers guests a whole new hotel experience. Convenient and secure, there's no need for physical keys or keycards.
Learn More
Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
87 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
OpenKey is the leading provider of Digital Key solutions that allow your guests to unlock rooms with their mobile devices, saving them time — and saving you money.
Product logo
Openkey.co Mobile Key & Keyless Entry
THE PITCH
RATINGS
87 HT Score
OpenKey is the leading provider of Digital Key solutions that allow your guests to unlock rooms with their mobile devices, saving them time — and saving you money.
Learn More
Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
100 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Goki combines hardware & software to make stays better for everyone. Guests can check-in & download their keys on their mobile. Hotels can lower operational overheads and direct guests to their other revenue centers.
Product logo
Goki Mobile Key & Keyless Entry
THE PITCH
RATINGS
100 HT Score
Goki combines hardware & software to make stays better for everyone. Guests can check-in & download their keys on their mobile. Hotels can lower operational overheads and direct guests to their other revenue centers.
Learn More

3. Upselling Software

Find new revenue streams with tools to upsell room upgrades and ancillaries to drive incremental revenue for your hotel while improving the guest experience

Upselling software helps hotels create a digital guest journey from check-in to check-out by providing guests with personalized offers and recommendations based on their preferences and past experiences. This helps hotels increase revenue by offering guests additional services and amenities that they may not have considered before. Additionally, upselling software can help hotels streamline the check-in process by allowing guests to quickly and easily select their desired services and amenities. This helps to create a more efficient and enjoyable experience for guests, which can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

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THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
84 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Nor1 Upsell solution drives more revenue than any other internal or third-party solution. By engaging 100% of your guests and making the right offer at the right time in the reservation life-cycle (booking, pre-arrival, at-arrival) and at the right price, revenue and guest satisfaction are maximized.
Product logo
Nor1 Hotel Upsell Solutions (by Oracle Hospitality) Upselling Software
THE PITCH
RATINGS
84 HT Score
Nor1 Upsell solution drives more revenue than any other internal or third-party solution. By engaging 100% of your guests and making the right offer at the right time in the reservation life-cycle (booking, pre-arrival, at-arrival) and at the right price, revenue and guest satisfaction are maximized.
Learn More
Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
100 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Oaky is an upselling software that helps hotels boost their revenue by offering relevant upgrades & services to their guests throughout the whole guest journey.
Product logo
Oaky Upselling Software
THE PITCH
RATINGS
100 HT Score
Oaky is an upselling software that helps hotels boost their revenue by offering relevant upgrades & services to their guests throughout the whole guest journey.
Learn More
Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
99 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Canary Upsells is the complete upselling tool for hotels that immediately increases revenues.
Product logo
Canary Upsells Upselling Software
THE PITCH
RATINGS
99 HT Score
Canary Upsells is the complete upselling tool for hotels that immediately increases revenues.
Learn More

4. Guest Messaging Software

Help your guests find answers faster and communicate in their preferred medium, text messaging

Guest messaging software helps hotels create a digital guest journey from check-in to check-out by providing a streamlined communication platform for guests and staff. This platform allows guests to easily access information about their stay, such as check-in and check-out times, room amenities, and local attractions. It also allows staff to quickly respond to guest inquiries and provide personalized service. Additionally, guest messaging software can be used to send automated messages to guests throughout their stay, such as reminders about check-out times and special offers. This helps create a more seamless and enjoyable experience for guests, while also helping hotels increase customer satisfaction and loyalty.

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THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
80 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Workflow Automation is a framework that allows the hotelier to connect events (checkout, message received, ID verified, order submitted) to actions. Actions are actions within Akia's communication platform or third-party actions (e.g. send a message, create a work order in another system, issue a mobile key, etc).
Product logo
Akia Guest Messaging Software
THE PITCH
RATINGS
80 HT Score
Workflow Automation is a framework that allows the hotelier to connect events (checkout, message received, ID verified, order submitted) to actions. Actions are actions within Akia's communication platform or third-party actions (e.g. send a message, create a work order in another system, issue a mobile key, etc).
Learn More
Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
83 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Connect Messaging is the complete guest messaging and information platform for your staff to communicate with guests before, during, or after a stay.
Product logo
Monscierge Guest Messaging Guest Messaging Software
THE PITCH
RATINGS
83 HT Score
Connect Messaging is the complete guest messaging and information platform for your staff to communicate with guests before, during, or after a stay.
Learn More
Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
100 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
The most advanced guest communication software with direct, automated, and broadcast messaging via WhatsApp, SMS, Chat, or email.
Product logo
Duve - Communication Hub Guest Messaging Software
THE PITCH
RATINGS
100 HT Score
The most advanced guest communication software with direct, automated, and broadcast messaging via WhatsApp, SMS, Chat, or email.
Learn More

5. Mobile Ordering Software

Software to manage room service ordering, tracking, upselling and fulfillment

Mobile ordering software helps hotels create a digital guest journey from check-in to check-out by streamlining the entire process. It allows guests to check-in and out quickly and easily, as well as order room service, make reservations, and pay for their stay. It also allows hotels to track guest preferences and provide personalized services. Additionally, mobile ordering software can be used to provide guests with real-time updates on their stay, such as room availability, check-in times, and more. This helps to create a seamless and enjoyable experience for guests, from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave.

Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
90 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Allow guests to order safely through guest facing integrations, so staff can deliver orders as fast as possible by digitally synchronizing your teams to never leave a guest waiting.
Product logo
Flexkeeping (Room Service) Mobile Ordering & Room Service
THE PITCH
RATINGS
90 HT Score
Allow guests to order safely through guest facing integrations, so staff can deliver orders as fast as possible by digitally synchronizing your teams to never leave a guest waiting.
Learn More
Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
100 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
SABA’s web-based ordering app allows guests to browse digital menus and place orders from anywhere. Operators can create menus that are easily editable, contain upsell offers, and support multiple languages. Guests can access the app by scanning a QR code or clicking a link on the property’s website or social media pages, and operators have the option to embed the app on in-room tablets or existing hotel apps. Besides F&B, hoteliers can also configure the app to place minibar orders and housekeeping requests. SABA charges a monthly fee, and a 30-day free trial is available to try before you buy.
Product logo
SABA F&B Ordering Mobile Ordering & Room Service
THE PITCH
RATINGS
100 HT Score
SABA’s web-based ordering app allows guests to browse digital menus and place orders from anywhere. Operators can create menus that are easily editable, contain upsell offers, and support multiple languages. Guests can access the app by scanning a QR code or clicking a link on the property’s website or social media pages, and operators have the option to embed the app on in-room tablets or existing hotel apps. Besides F&B, hoteliers can also configure the app to place minibar orders and housekeeping requests. SABA charges a monthly fee, and a 30-day free trial is available to try before you buy.
Learn More
Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
0 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
IRIS launched Open Tab to offer guests the option to pay at the table, order from multiple devices, split the bill and more.
Product logo
IRIS Mobile Ordering & Room Service
THE PITCH
RATINGS
0 HT Score
IRIS launched Open Tab to offer guests the option to pay at the table, order from multiple devices, split the bill and more.
Learn More

6. Hotel Guest Apps

Create a mobile or web app to put your hotel's information and services as your guests' fingertips

The hotel guest app provides guests with a convenient way to check-in, order room service, view amenities, access concierge services, and check-out. Guests can use the app to view their room details, access their digital key, view the menu, pay for their order, book tours and activities, view their bill, and pay for their stay.

Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
75 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Engage guests with Native iOS, Android, and web-based app solutions.
Product logo
INTELITY Guest Mobile Apps Hotel Guest Apps
THE PITCH
RATINGS
75 HT Score
Engage guests with Native iOS, Android, and web-based app solutions.
Learn More
Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
100 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Duve ranks #1 in the Hotel Guest Apps category on Hotel Tech Report and won the title 'Best Hotel Guest App of 2022'. 95% of 66 hoteliers from 19 countries highly recommend Duve to their peers.
Product logo
Duve App Hotel Guest Apps
THE PITCH
RATINGS
100 HT Score
Duve ranks #1 in the Hotel Guest Apps category on Hotel Tech Report and won the title 'Best Hotel Guest App of 2022'. 95% of 66 hoteliers from 19 countries highly recommend Duve to their peers.
Learn More
Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
78 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Online ordering and payment system suitable for all kinds of F&B venues, from restaurants and bars to concert venues and nightclubs. ServeSafely optimizes revenue and profitability with upsell features, customizable menus, and tools to boost sales of higher-margin menu items.
Product logo
Crave Mobile Platform Hotel Guest Apps
THE PITCH
RATINGS
78 HT Score
Online ordering and payment system suitable for all kinds of F&B venues, from restaurants and bars to concert venues and nightclubs. ServeSafely optimizes revenue and profitability with upsell features, customizable menus, and tools to boost sales of higher-margin menu items.
Learn More

7. Retail Point Of Sale Software

Software to power your hotel's retail outlets

Retail point of sale software helps hotels create a digital guest journey from check-in to check-out by streamlining the entire process. It allows guests to check-in and check-out quickly and easily, as well as pay for their stay and any additional services they may have requested. It also allows hotel staff to track guest information, such as room preferences, payment information, and any special requests. This information can then be used to create a personalized experience for each guest, ensuring that their stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Additionally, the software can be used to generate reports and analytics, allowing hotel staff to better understand their guests and make informed decisions about how to improve their services.

Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
100 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
A front desk POS and comprehensive retail management system for hotel lobby retail. Automates front desk transactions and inventory management for unattended grab-and-go markets with barcode scan technology and a massive product database of retail business intelligence, ImpulsePoint takes all guessing out of running a profitable lobby store.
Product logo
ImpulsePoint by Impulsify Retail Software
THE PITCH
RATINGS
100 HT Score
A front desk POS and comprehensive retail management system for hotel lobby retail. Automates front desk transactions and inventory management for unattended grab-and-go markets with barcode scan technology and a massive product database of retail business intelligence, ImpulsePoint takes all guessing out of running a profitable lobby store.
Learn More
Image
THE PITCH
RATINGS BEST FOR
0 HT Score
Hotel Tech Score is a composite ranking comprising of key signals such as: user satisfaction, review quantity, review recency, and vendor submitted information to help buyers better understand their products.
Learn More
Next-generation cloud-based platform the gives hotels, food services, and restaurants the flexibility, scalability, and data visibility to gain the insights to run better operations and to more consistently meet emerging guest expectations.
Product logo
Infor Retail POS Retail Software
THE PITCH
RATINGS
0 HT Score
Next-generation cloud-based platform the gives hotels, food services, and restaurants the flexibility, scalability, and data visibility to gain the insights to run better operations and to more consistently meet emerging guest expectations.
Learn More

Hotels that create a digital guest journey from check-in to check-out will outperform those who do not in the coming years by providing a more efficient and personalized experience for their guests. By utilizing digital technologies such as mobile check-in, digital key cards, and automated check-out, hotels can streamline the guest experience and reduce wait times. Additionally, digital guest journeys can provide guests with personalized recommendations and offers based on their preferences, allowing hotels to better target their services and increase customer satisfaction. Finally, digital guest journeys can help hotels collect valuable data about their guests, allowing them to better understand their needs and preferences and improve their services accordingly.

Hotels need digital guest apps to enhance the overall guest experience and streamline various aspects of their operations. A digital guest app serves as a user-friendly platform that provides convenient features and services to guests throughout their stay.

One key benefit is that digital guest apps facilitate the check-in process. Guests can use the app to complete pre-stay check-in, saving time and avoiding long queues at the front desk. This seamless check-in experience contributes to guest satisfaction and sets a positive tone for their stay.

Messaging capabilities within the guest app enable direct communication between guests and hotel staff. Guests can make requests, inquire about hotel services, or seek assistance easily. Real-time messaging ensures prompt responses and personalized service, enhancing guest satisfaction and improving the overall hotel experience.

Digital guest apps, available as web apps or mobile apps on both Android and iOS platforms, offer integration with various systems and services. They can connect with the property management system (PMS) to provide accurate information about room availability, pricing, and upgrades. This integration enables efficient upselling and helps hoteliers optimize revenue.

Guests can conveniently access information about hotel services, such as room service menus or spa offerings, through the digital guest app. This not only streamlines the guest experience but also promotes direct bookings and increases revenue for the hotel.

The digital guest app serves as a central hub for all hotel-related information, acting as a digital concierge and guest directory. It provides details about hotel facilities, local attractions, and sustainability initiatives, allowing guests to make informed choices during their stay.

The app can deliver targeted notifications and personalized content to guests, keeping them updated about special promotions, events, or relevant information. These proactive notifications enhance guest engagement and contribute to a memorable hotel experience.

Successful implementation of digital guest apps has led to numerous success stories in the hotel industry. Hotels have seen increased guest satisfaction, improved operational workflows, and enhanced guest communication. Additionally, guests appreciate the convenience and efficiency provided by these apps, leading to higher guest retention and positive online reviews.

Digital guest apps are essential for hotels to deliver an exceptional guest experience throughout the entire guest journey. By offering features such as streamlined check-in, real-time messaging, integration with hotel systems, and personalized services, these apps contribute to guest satisfaction, revenue optimization, and operational efficiency.