Technology trends are constantly changing, and if hotels want to keep up with the times, they need to stay on top of these trends. You can choose to stay stagnant and continue doing what you're doing, but you would risk the loss of new customers who come to expect certain things from their hotels. So, what are the technology trends for hotels in 2018?

Ease of Use on Smartphones

Many major companies offer ease of use for people who prefer to do almost everything from their phone, rather than a desktop or laptop computer. Because people are growing used to this treatment, they expect it in their hotels as well. Smartphone apps are one of the most popular ways for customers to book or access their rooms, and to check-in when they arrive. Not only are these apps easier for guests to use, which makes them more likely to choose your hotel over your competitors, but it makes sense financially as well. An app is not overly expensive to build and maintain and can cut back on costs in certain areas where the app will take over.

It also makes it faster and easier for guests to check in during the busiest times of the year, especially over major holidays. This will help your staff to be faster and more efficient, as well as less stressed and happier with their work.

Smart Hotels

One of the largest trends of the past few years that will continue into 2018 and beyond are smart homes, smart cars, and now smart hotels. Guests expect their stay at your hotel to be quick and efficient without waiting in lines or dealing with too many people. To do this, many of the major hotels are imputing smart hotel technology. According to an article from Ambius, this includes:

? Keyless room entry (through your hotel's app) ? Personalized entertainment selections (all your guest's favorite TV shows) ? Robotic butlers ? Personalized guest room climate control and lighting

You can also include check-in and check-out options on your hotel's app, easier room service options (calls are no longer needed, just use the app), you can even implement a hotel store that is run through your app, in case your guests run out of (or forget) something important like a toothbrush or deodorant.

This will add ease for your guests and, because people like things to be easy in a world that is complicated enough, it may increase the amount of new and returning guests throughout the year when these guests are more relaxed and recommend your hotel to others.

Personalized Guest Profiles

Take advantage of the many guest management software's out there to personalize your guest's experience and cause them to want to return to your hotel again and again. When a guest books a room, you can give them the option to fill out a profile of their likes and dislikes as it relates to their stay in your hotel. For example:

? Favorite food or beverage ? Desired room temperature ? Favorite color ? Favorite snack ? Favorite TV shows

You could then use that information to make sure that those favorite items are already in the guest's room when they arrive. This personal touch will make your guest feel more at home and is a guaranteed way to impress them. They will tell their friends, family, and coworkers how you anticipated their needs and desires, and you'll get even more guests in future.

By going above and beyond what other hotels are doing, staying on top of trends, and putting your guests first, you can become the go-to hotel for your guests and everyone in their sphere of influence.