When we think of mobile technology and hotels, the first thing that comes to mind is guest services. Hotels are increasingly using mobile apps to help guests check in and out, order room service, make reservations and schedule alarm calls. Even as they browse potential places to stay, consumers are turning to their smartphones to compare deals and scout for coupons.
The industry is capitalizing on the customer-facing uses of mobile technology, less so on the potential for internal management processes. This may be about to change.
A growing number of apps are addressing in-house operations and boosting productivity by helping hoteliers manage everything from housekeeping and inventory to internal communications and guest services.
For guests, the most commonly used mobile innovation are the point-of-sale systems used to make food and drink transactions. The constant connectivity of mobile applications allow food and drink companies to communicate with customers as they browse and purchase items, further galvanizing the sense of direct engagement and enhancing food safety and regulatory requirements.
Managing compliance has never been this easy. Customers can simply use their phones to scan a barcode or QR code and receive instant information telling them if, for example:
- The item has been recalled
- The item contains allergens
- The item is organic
- The item contains GMOs
These are just a few examples of how mobile technology is helping food suppliers reach customers directly. This transparency can extend as far as the customer might wish. Want to track where the food was grown, right down to the field? Check. Need more information on fair trade? Check. From planting to packaging, mobile tech is raising customer expectations across the industry.