"...the goal here is to do more with fewer employees by using technology."
— Max Starkov, Adjunct Professor NYU Tisch Center for Hospitality
The hospitality industry faces a profound challenge: a significant labor shortage exacerbated by a record-breaking number of voluntary resignations. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 4.4 million people left their jobs in September 2021, with 1.59 million of those in the hospitality sector. This acute shortage emphasizes the need for innovative solutions to streamline operations and maintain service standards.
Embracing Technology to Address Labor Shortages
Max Starkov, a renowned Hospitality & Online Travel Tech Consultant, advocates for leveraging technology to overcome these challenges. He emphasizes that investing in technology—such as automation, mobility, and next-generation applications—is essential. The aim is to reduce staffing needs while maintaining efficiency and service quality.
How Automation Transforms Hotel Operations
Hotel operations technology plays a critical role in optimizing workflows and improving efficiency. Here’s how automation can revolutionize hotel management:
- Digital and Automated Guest Request Processing: Automate the handling of guest requests to ensure timely and efficient responses. Requests are processed digitally, eliminating delays and enhancing guest satisfaction.
- Centralized and Automated Task Assignment: Automate task allocation for housekeeping, maintenance, and other departments. This centralization allows for standardized processes and consistent execution of tasks. Set specific rules within the system, and it will automatically create, assign, and track tasks according to predefined checklists.
- Efficient Task Management: The system can intelligently determine the type of room cleaning needed based on occupancy status, whether a stayover or checkout. This ensures appropriate task assignment and resource allocation.
- Operational Cost Reduction: Automated task assignment can lower operational expenses by up to 30%, as it streamlines workflows and reduces manual labor requirements.
- Enhanced Oversight and Accountability: With digital task management, each staff member operates with greater responsibility. Tasks are communicated, documented with photos, and tracked through various stages, effectively extending supervisory capabilities across the team.
- Timely Task Execution: Automated systems trigger alerts for overdue or missed tasks, ensuring that no guest request goes unaddressed and tasks are completed on time.
In summary, automation is not just a strategic advantage; it is a necessity in today’s hospitality landscape. By adopting technology-driven solutions, hotels can navigate labor shortages, enhance operational efficiency, and deliver exceptional guest experiences with fewer resources. Embrace automation to stay competitive and ensure a seamless, high-quality operation in the evolving hospitality sector.