In the 1990s, the Houston Airport experienced an increase in complaints from passengers regarding waiting time for luggage. Their initial response was to throw more resources at the problem by hiring additional staff and expanding the baggage handling system. The wait time was reduced to seven minutes, but complaints from passengers persisted, making the baffled airport authorities decide on another approach. 

Houston Airport's staff understood that for passengers, waiting can be excruciating and not just about the minutes but rather about how passengers perceive those minutes. This led to them calculating how much time it took for passengers to walk from the plane to the baggage claim and deciding to extend it from a minute to 7 minutes. By just parking the planes further away, they eliminated the 7-minute wait time by keeping the travelers occupied. The extra time spent walking to the belt meant more time for bags to be unloaded. In the end, passengers spent less time waiting at the baggage claim.

Waiting is a universally hated game that customers often play in the hospitality industry. We've all been there. After a long-haul flight, your heart is brimming with anticipation to get to your hotel room. But we find ourselves in a long queue, waiting around for what feels like an eternity just to check in. Just like the exemplified airport, hotels can transform the agonizing wait of traditional check-in and check-out. The key is to reduce the perceived wait time for guests. How? Through digital solutions that offer a more engaging experience.

Mobile check-in

Check-in management typically involves a series of steps such as registration, verification, key allocation, billing setup, and guest orientation, and usually only happens after surviving often long front desk queues.  

Today's guests find the traditional hotel check-in management painful, especially after arriving at the hotel after a grueling day of travel. Mobile check-in allows guests to check in online using an app or website. From the comfort of their home or while traveling, they can verify details or provide payment information. Upon arrival, simply grab their key (or use a digital keycard) and head directly to their room. Mobile solutions give guests more control from the comfort of their homes or while traveling.

A good app for hospitality businesses and short-term rentals is the Nevron Mobile Solution, which can seamlessly integrate with your hotel's property management system. This means all guest information, room availability, and preferences are synchronized in real time. This creates a consistent and frictionless experience for guests, regardless of how they check-in.

Mobile check-out

In hospitality, your welcome should be just as enthusiastic as your goodbye. The final hours of a hotel stay can often be a source of frustration for guests. Waiting in line to settle bills and return keys can eat into precious vacation time or add stress to a business trip. Fast mobile check-out offers a solution, transforming the departure process into a seamless and convenient experience. 

Guests can check out from the comfort of their room using their hotel room TV. The Nevron IPTV also supports multiple languages for international travelers. No more waiting in line or rushing to reception before a flight. With a few taps, they can review charges, settle their bill securely, and check out without a hassle. Fast check-out eliminates queue times, allowing guests to depart on their own schedule. This is particularly beneficial for early morning departures or guests with tight time constraints.

By eliminating the uncertainty and potential delays of traditional check-out, online fast check-out options create a calmer and less stressful departure experience. Guests can focus on packing and preparing for their onward journey, leaving the hotel with a positive final impression.

Self-service kiosks

Variety is the spice of the hospitality industry. Not every guest is comfortable using a smartphone app. Self-service kiosks powered by the Nevron Mobile Solution offer an inclusive alternative, ensuring all guests benefit from streamlined check-in and check-out. This is especially important for guests who might not be able to use their phones due to low batteries or WiFi issues. 

During peak hours, lines at the front desk can be a major pain point. Kiosks disperse guests, offering additional check-in or check-out points. This speeds up the process for everyone and reduces wait times. Also, modern kiosks powered by the Nevron Mobile Solution support multiple languages. This is a major asset for international travelers, removing the stress of communication barriers and ensuring a smooth experience for guests from all over the world. 

Digital keycards

Digital keycards are the final puzzle piece in a truly frictionless check-in/out process. After completing check-in on their smartphone or at a kiosk, guests can receive their digital key instantly. No more waiting in line to return a keycard! With a digital key, guests can check out with a single tap in their hotel app.

Misplaced keycards are a common frustration, both for guests and hotel staff. Digital keycards, stored securely on a guest's smartphone, eliminate that problem. No more expensive key replacements. Digital keycards are inherently safer than traditional keys. Plus, if a guest's phone is lost, the digital key can be quickly deactivated remotely. The Nevron Mobile Solution can easily integrate with other digital key services to provide guests with ease and state-of-the-art hospitality. 

Why you should implement digital check-in and check-out at your hotel

Hotels that implement digital check-in could experience a wide range of benefits, including:  

Reduce staff workload

Implementing digital check-in and check-out at your hotel greatly improves operational efficiency by reducing workload. With digital check-in, guests can complete the registration process online before their arrival, thereby eliminating the need for front desk staff to manually input guest information. This not only speeds up the check-in process but also reduces workload and ensures accurate data entry.

Similarly, digital check-out enables guests to check their bills and leave feedback electronically, bypassing the need for face-to-face interactions with staff. This not only saves time for both guests and staff but also reduces congestion at the front desk during peak hours.

Huge cost savings

Implementing digital check-in and check-out at your hotel leads to significant cost savings, primarily by reducing labor costs associated with traditional manual processes. With digital check-in, guests can complete registration online, minimizing the need for front desk staff to handle paperwork and manually input guest information. 

Similarly, digital check-out eliminates the need for staff to assist guests with settling their bills and collecting feedback in person. By automating these processes, hotels can operate with fewer front desk personnel, resulting in lower payroll expenses.

Moreover, digital check-in and check-out systems often integrate with property management and customer relationship management software, allowing for more efficient management of room inventory, guest preferences, and service requests.

Better guest/staff interactions 

Implementing digital check-in and check-out leads to better guest-staff interactions by freeing up front desk agents to focus on delivering exceptional, personalized customer service.

Rather than being tied down by administrative tasks, such as paperwork and processing payments, front desk agents can devote their attention to welcoming guests, addressing their needs, and providing personalized recommendations or assistance. This creates a more welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Furthermore, with digital check-in and check-out systems often integrated with customer relationship management software, front desk staff have access to valuable guest information and preferences at their fingertips. Armed with this knowledge, they can anticipate guest needs, offer tailored recommendations, and resolve any issues more efficiently. upgrades,‍

Increased revenue opportunities

Digital check-in and check-out can lead to increased revenue opportunities for hotels in several ways:

1. Upselling and cross-selling: Digital check-in systems can prompt guests to upgrade their room or order additional services, such as breakfast packages, spa treatments, room upgrades, or airport rides. By presenting these options during the check-in process, hotels can capitalize on guests' willingness to enhance their stay, thereby increasing revenue.

2. Operational costs: By automating the check-in and check-out processes, hotels can streamline operations and reduce labor costs. With less staff needed to handle administrative tasks, such as paperwork and payment processing, hotels can reallocate resources to revenue-generating activities, such as sales and marketing initiatives.

3. Enhanced guest experience: Digital check-in and check-out contribute to a seamless and efficient guest experience, which can lead to higher guest satisfaction and repeat bookings. Satisfied guests are 12% more likely to return to the hotel, and 29% recommend it to others, ultimately driving revenue growth through increased occupancy and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

4. Personalised offers: Through integration with customer relationship management software, digital check-in systems can access guest preferences and past booking history. This enables hotels to tailor personalized offers and promotions based on individual guest profiles, increasing the likelihood of upselling and generating additional revenue. This can lead to a more positive guest experience, repeat visits, and post-stay marketing opportunities. 

Improved guest satisfaction 

According to a Deloitte study, guests are more likely to rate their level of satisfaction above 60% when they feel engaged in a personalized, authentic, and attentive experience. Digital check-in and check-out systems can significantly improve guest satisfaction by enhancing convenience, efficiency, and personalization throughout the guest experience. Here’s how:

1. Convenience: Digital check-in allows guests to complete the check-in process remotely, whether it's via a mobile app or website. Similarly, digital check-out enables guests to settle their bills and provide feedback quickly and easily, without the need for face-to-face interactions.

2. Efficiency: By automating the check-in and check-out processes, hotels can streamline operations and minimize wait times. Guests appreciate the efficiency of digital check-in, especially during busy periods or when they're in a hurry.

3. Personalisation: Digital check-in systems can capture guest preferences and special requests, allowing hotels to personalize the guest experience from the moment of arrival. Whether it's room preferences, dietary restrictions, or leisure activities, hotels can use this information to tailor the guest experience to individual needs and preferences, enhancing overall satisfaction.

4. Communication: Digital check-in systems can also facilitate communication between guests and hotel staff, allowing guests to communicate their needs or request assistance conveniently. Whether it's arranging for room service, requesting additional amenities, or seeking local recommendations, guests appreciate the ease of communication enabled by digital platforms.

‍Reduced environmental impact 

Consumers are increasingly concerned about climate change and sustainability. According to Operto, 85.6% of travelers say they would pay more for an eco-friendly hotel. Digital check-in and check-out systems can contribute to a reduced environmental impact in several ways:

1. Paperless processes: Traditional check-in and check-out processes often involve printing paper documents, such as registration forms, receipts, and invoices. By transitioning to digital check-in and check-out systems, hotels can eliminate the need for paper, reducing paper waste and the environmental resources required for paper production.

2. Energy savings: Digital check-in and check-out systems operate using electronic devices, such as computers, tablets, and smartphones. Compared to traditional paper-based processes, which rely on printers and copiers, digital systems consume significantly less energy, leading to reduced electricity consumption and lower carbon emissions.

3. Sustainability messaging: Implementing digital check-in and check-out systems allows hotels to communicate their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility to guests. By showcasing eco-friendly practices and initiatives, hotels can appeal to environmentally-conscious travelers and position themselves as environmentally responsible brands.

Conclusion

Digital check-in and check-out processes are no longer a luxury; they're fast becoming an expectation. Guests demand convenience, personalization, and a frictionless stay. By embracing technologies like mobile apps, self-service kiosks, and digital keycards, hotels can meet these demands and create a truly remarkable guest experience.

The Nevron Mobile Solution transforms the way guests interact with your hotel. This state-of-the-art technology empowers guests to personalize their stay on their own terms. They can conveniently check-in and access all your hotel's services and amenities right from their fingertips. Whether it's ordering room service, booking spa treatments, requesting housekeeping, or exploring local attractions. This mobile solution eliminates the need to call or visit the front desk. This streamlined experience not only enhances guest satisfaction but also frees up precious staff time for exceptional guest service. Book a demo to learn more about how this Nevron solution can help your business.

In a crowded hospitality market, exceptional in-room experiences can set your hotel apart. Outdated amenities such as legacy IPTV puts hotels at a competitive disadvantage. Old amenities are why a whopping 60% of travelers who use hotels and Airbnb prefer the latter.

But what if there was a way to transform your hotel's diverse entertainment, guest communication, and promotional offerings, leaving guests happy and boosting your bottom line? Thankfully, there are state-of-the-art IPTV solutions designed to meet modern hospitality's demands, which will be discussed in this article alongside the limitations of legacy IPTV. 

What's wrong with legacy IPTV systems?

Legacy IPTV systems are older versions of Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) technology used in hospitality settings like hotels. Often compared to the bulky, boxy TVs of the past, these systems contrast sharply with modern IPTV solutions that resemble sleek, flat-screen TVs equipped with the latest features.

Once at the forefront of entertainment technology, legacy IPTV systems have become increasingly misaligned with the demands of contemporary hospitality. Their limitations not only hinder guest satisfaction but also impact operational efficiency. Here are several reasons why upgrading from legacy IPTV systems is becoming essential:

• High Maintenance Costs: Legacy systems often require frequent repairs and updates, leading to higher operational costs.
• Operational Inefficiencies: Slower system responses and outdated interfaces fail to meet the efficiency needs of modern hotel operations. 
• Incompatibility: As technology advances, legacy systems often struggle to integrate with newer, more efficient technologies.
• Lack of Support: As manufacturers move on to support newer technologies, support for older systems dwindles, complicating maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Compliance Issues: Legacy systems may not comply with current security regulations or data protection laws, posing legal and security risks.
• Diminished Guest Experience: Outdated systems often cannot provide the customized, interactive experiences that guests now expect.
• Reduced Business Profitability: Inefficient operations and poor guest experiences can lead to decreased revenue.
• Security Vulnerabilities: Older systems often lack the advanced security features necessary to protect against current cyber threats.

Further examining the technical drawbacks, legacy IPTV systems can suffer from "Old Software Code Logic," using outdated programming methodologies that no longer align with current best practices. This old logic can lead to "Bulky Code," which is verbose and complex, making the systems difficult to maintain and troubleshoot. Additionally, any "Override Code" used in these systems can complicate application behavior, increasing the risk of errors and further complicating maintenance efforts.

These characteristics of legacy IPTV systems—ranging from operational inefficiencies to complex, outdated code—underline the necessity for hotels to consider upgrading to newer, more efficient IPTV solutions. Such upgrades can significantly enhance guest satisfaction, streamline operations, and ensure compliance with current standards, ultimately contributing to a hotel's success and profitability.

High maintenance costs

One mistake business leaders make is to assume that upgrading legacy IT is very expensive. In reality, upgrading costs less than the constant maintenance and labor costs used to keep the old software up and running. Legacy systems can be likened to a weak dam with holes that you keep plugging and plugging, yet the water keeps seeping through. All legacy systems, including old IPTV systems, only cost hospitality businesses money while never providing new and innovative services.

Operational inefficiency

Legacy systems are slow and are usually a constant source of frustration to employees and guests. That's because users have to contend with long load times, lags, and more. While these systems might have been trendy and great solid solutions back in the day, they slow down over time. And due to manufacturers no longer releasing system updates, it is hard and costly to address the issues. This often adversely affects employee productivity and reduces business profitability, creating issues that make processes inefficient.

Incompatibility

Most businesses use a range of tools and software for their business processes and some systems are newer and more advanced than others. When you attempt to integrate legacy systems with newer ones, there are bound to be issues.

When you have outdated systems in your tech stacks, you often use them in isolation from other software since they can't integrate properly. This leads to isolated business information and processes within different systems. This can be problematic and reduce operational efficiency, leading to wasted time, money, duplicated information, etc.

Lack of support

The majority of legacy systems are no longer being produced or sold, therefore their manufacturers no longer support them. That means there is no existing support as the seller will not be able to assist you in troubleshooting or when you run into issues with the product. 

Compliance

Businesses must adhere to regulations governed by the territories in which they operate. The regulatory landscape is constantly evolving due to new industry regulations. Maintaining compliance with these standards is critical for organizations that use legacy systems to avoid financial penalties, damages, and legal consequences. Conventional regulatory obligations that affect legacy systems include worldwide standards like GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and SOX, and industry-specific rules and data protection laws. Legacy systems can find it difficult to follow these standards' stringent requirements for data security, privacy, record-keeping, and reporting if they aren't updated and improved.

Diminished guest experience

Legacy IPTV platforms present numerous problems that drastically diminish the guest experience. Here's how outdated IPTV systems reduce guest satisfaction and cause negative reviews: 

• There is a limited amount of content and no on-demand options compared to streaming services, which leaves guests longing for the variety they enjoy at home.
• Navigating these outdated systems is like searching for a needle in a haystack, with clunky interfaces and limited search functionalities wasting valuable relaxation time.
• The frequent buffering, slow loading times, and system crashes that plague legacy hotel TV systems can disrupt the seamless viewing experience guests expect.

Reduces business profitability

There are three ways legacy IPTV reduces your hotel's profitability: 

• New TV models are not supported or supporting new TV models that are evolving quickly is expensive.
• Businesses cannot scale with legacy systems, which hinders hotel revenue generation.
• Frustrated guests who can't find the content they want are less likely to order room service or stay in for the evening, leading to a possible loss of revenue opportunities.
  

Security vulnerabilities 

Cybercrime is on the rise. Data breaches, ransomware attacks, and cybersecurity problems are increasingly prevalent, and hotels are not exempted. Just some days ago, Hotel chain giant Omni Hotels & Resorts confirmed cybercriminals stole guest personal information in an apparent ransomware attack last month.

These attacks are becoming more sophisticated in their approaches. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to prevent cybercrimes, there are circumstances that make businesses vulnerable to attacks.

Legacy systems are one of them. Outdated hardware and software are more susceptible to cyber-attacks. Legacy systems often rely on outdated security protocols. These vulnerabilities can be exploited by hackers to access a hotel's network and potentially sensitive guest data, such as viewing preferences or billing information. Many legacy IPTV systems use weak or default authentication mechanisms, such as default passwords or usernames and passwords programmed directly into the system's software. This makes it easier for hackers to intercept sensitive information.

Benefits of replacing the legacy IPTV in your property

Replacing legacy IPTV systems in a hotel can yield numerous benefits, enhance guest satisfaction, and boost operational efficiency. Here are some benefits to consider: 

• Firstly, modern IPTV solutions offer a broader range of entertainment options and enhanced functionalities. 
• Modern IPTV solutions help hospitality businesses consolidate all hotel information into an editable digital format on a single platform, making it super accessible to guests. This info can include hotel maps, event schedules, and local attractions. This reduces the number of inquiries handled by reception staff, freeing up their time.
• Modern IPTV systems typically feature intuitive user interfaces and advanced search functionalities, making it easier for guests to discover content quickly. This contributes to a seamless viewing experience and maximizes guest enjoyment of the entertainment offerings.
• Replacing legacy IPTV systems can cause significant cost savings for hoteliers. Modern IPTV solutions often require less maintenance and support, freeing up resources. The scalability of modern IPTV platforms allows hotels to adapt and grow their entertainment offerings alongside evolving guest preferences. This ensures long-term investment value and future-proofs the property against obsolescence.
• Beyond guest-facing benefits, modern IPTV systems offer robust integration capabilities with other hotel technologies, such as property management systems and point-of-sale systems. This streamlines operations, enhances staff productivity, and maximizes revenue opportunities.
• Replacing a legacy IPTV with Nevron IPTV can mean increased revenue by monetizing your services and cutting down operational costs.

Legacy IPTV replacement project

In an IPTV replacement project, the IPTV headend is responsible for aggregating, processing, and formatting incoming TV signals from various sources for distribution over an IP network. These signals are then transformed into a standardized digital format that’s distributed across an IP network, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of end-user devices like set-top boxes and smart TVs.

The headend integrates various components like DVB IP Gateways, HDMI encoders, VOD servers, transcoders, recorders, and DRM systems to enhance the functionality and versatility of the IPTV system.

For instance, many modern systems are now designed to directly utilize IP infrastructure provided by telecommunications operators, eliminating the need for DVB IP Gateways. This advancement allows for the direct distribution of TV channels through IP, enhancing efficiency and reducing equipment requirements. Additionally, a VOD server continues to play a crucial role by providing on-demand access to video content, catering to the evolving preferences of guests who expect instant access to a wide array of entertainment options.

The headend also serves as a control center for managing the video and audio streams, allowing administrators to monitor and regulate the flow of content, configure channel lineups, schedule recordings, and enforce DRM policies to protect digital assets from unauthorized access or distribution.

Another essential component is the middleware, which acts as the communication between the IPTV Headend and the end-user devices. IPTV Middleware manages interactive features like on-screen menus, user authentication for accessing premium content, and content delivery. It consists of servers, software applications, and databases that handle user interactions and content distribution efficiently. The IPTV Middleware also manages the user's subscription and account details, allowing them to access the service and control their viewing experience.

Lastly, there are end-user devices, which guests use to access TV channels and other content on the interactive portal. These devices can vary depending on the hotel's setup and guest preferences and may include smart TVs, set-top boxes, smartphones, or tablets. By providing a range of compatible devices, hotels can cater to the different needs and preferences of their guests, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable viewing experience.

Overall, a successful legacy IPTV replacement project involves upgrading and optimizing each of these components to create a modern and efficient TV system that enhances the guest experience and meets the hotel's operational needs.

Why you should choose the Nevron Hospitality IPTV Solution

A frustrated guest flipping through channels on a clunky interface is a recipe for negative reviews and business loss.

Nevron's next-generation IPTV solution opens the door to a new era of guest satisfaction. It's not just about keeping up with the competition—it's about exceeding guest expectations and building a reputation for cutting-edge hospitality. 

Some reasons you should choose Nevron's all-in-one Hospitality IPTV are:

Features variety for guests

Nevron IPTV solution offer a comprehensive suite of features designed to transform the in-room entertainment experience for hotel guests. Beyond traditional TV channels and Video-on-Demand, guests can enjoy services like room service ordering, hotel information access, reservation booking, shopping, messaging, and even express check-in/check-out. This level of convenience and personalization empowers guests to manage their stay directly from their TV. Hoteliers benefit from increased guest satisfaction, optimized service delivery, and the potential for new revenue streams through in-room promotions and sales. Nevron caters to the needs of discerning guests seeking an elevated and technologically enhanced hotel experience.

Personalization

Nevron understands that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't cut it. The hotel TV system boasts a user-friendly interface that allows guests to curate their viewing experience. Nevron empowers guests to take control of their entertainment, fostering a sense of satisfaction.

Beyond the TV

Nevron isn't an island unto itself. The hotel TV system seamlessly integrates with hotel management systems, such as room service or concierge. Imagine a guest effortlessly ordering popcorn from within the IPTV interface while watching a movie or booking spa treatments all with a few clicks using the mobile app created. Guests hate queuing for basic things like check-in or check-out. The app is a centralized information library where your guests can find local attractions, hotel maps, hotel policies, check-in and check-out times, etc. Providing this information in one centralized place drastically reduces wait time.

The Nevron solution can be used for promotion. Businesses can utilize the digital signage feature to pass on important information or promote other services and locations to guests. Nevron promotes a connected ecosystem, streamlining operations and creating an excellent guest experience.

Future-proofing your investment

Nevron understands that technology is ever-evolving. Regular updates ensure the Nevron hotel TV system remains at the forefront of innovation while the scalable architecture adapts to your hotel's growth. Enhanced security features safeguard guest data and protect your network. With Nevron, you're investing in a future-proof solution that delivers lasting value.

How to ensure success during a legacy replacement project

Here are some strategies for hotel operators to minimize risks and maximize the success of their legacy IPTV solution replacement project: 

• Select a reputable vendor with expertise in hospitality technology and IPTV solutions.
• Collaborate closely with the vendor to develop a detailed implementation plan tailored to your hotel's needs.
• Prioritize simplicity and speed by choosing user-friendly systems that can be deployed swiftly with minimal downtime.
• Leverage the vendor's expertise to handle most of the implementation process, reducing the burden on your staff.
• Ensure effective communication throughout the project to keep stakeholders informed and engaged. With proper planning and the right technology partner, upgrading your hotel's TV systems can be a seamless and stress-free experience for both staff and guests.

Conclusion

The notion that legacy IPTV systems merely offer static channel flipping is outdated. Today, even these systems come equipped with a range of functionalities found in newer models. However, what sets modern IPTV solutions apart isn't just the services they offer but their enhanced architecture. These contemporary systems boast slicker coding, easier maintenance, and robust security features. They are also simpler to upgrade and can seamlessly integrate with third-party systems, offering a level of flexibility and efficiency that legacy systems struggle to match. This adaptability is crucial for meeting the entertainment expectations of today's travelers, who seek experiences at least as good as, if not better than, what they enjoy at home.

Nevron's IPTV solution doesn't just entertain guests; it empowers informed decisions and unlocks new revenue streams for your hotel. Nevron IPTV provides a versatile platform for informing guests and subtly upselling services. Hotels can showcase the best local attractions, shopping malls, restaurants, and nearby experiences, all directly on the TV. This not only enhances guest convenience but also creates opportunities to highlight hotel partnerships or exclusive offers.

Imagine your guests discovering hidden gem restaurants through the IPTV system. This personalized touch elevates the guest experience and creates a win-win situation for both the hotel and the guest.

Ready to ditch the frustration of outdated technology and embrace a future-proof solution? Nevron can help. Request a live demo now.