Have you ever considered how many things you could improve simply by replacing traditional keys with a digital system in your hotel? In today's hospitality landscape, convenience and security are non-negotiable - and digital keys deliver both. That's why they're becoming a standard in modern hotels.
These types of contactless systems, which let guests enter their rooms directly from their mobile phones, have been popular since the pandemic and are revolutionising today's hotel experience.
At Omnitec, we have been helping hotels around the world modernise their access points for years, so we have first-hand knowledge of the many advantages of implementing a digital key system in your hotel. In this article, we explain 7 of the most important benefits it provides.
1. No waiting at check-in
One of the most critical moments in the guest experience is arriving. Because, after a long trip, the last thing you want to do is wait in line at Reception. Fortunately, if you have digital keys in your hotel, you can now check guests in without waiting, completely autonomously and 100% securely.
One such Omnitec solution is UpKey, an access control app that provides each guest with a mobile key on their phone before even setting foot in the hotel. Upon arrival, they simply activate their mobile and access their room, thanks to the Bluetooth technology integrated into the door lock.
This all leads, of course, to greater guest satisfaction.
2. Lower operating costs
Did you know that hotels that switch from plastic cards to mobile keys can reduce their access material costs by up to 30%? Think of all those cards that get lost or broken: it's an ongoing expense, and it's avoidable!
With a digital key system in your hotel, you can save on plastic and simplify logistics, thus freeing your team from repetitive reception chores, so they can focus on providing a wonderful guest experience instead.
It's also a direct step toward a more sustainable, environmentally friendly hotel.
3. Greater security and real-time traceability
Security is a priority in any accommodation centre, so you should always know who accesses which door and when. This is impossible with physical keys or conventional cards, but with a Bluetooth hotel lock like the EVO or OS Slim from Omnitec, it's very easy.
Our systems let you have an audit log in real time, set temporary credentials with expiry dates and even revoke permissions instantly.
So opting for digital keys in your hotel increases security for everyone - guests, staff and suppliers – in common areas and also gives you greater control.
4. More flexibility for staff and suppliers
A digital key system also improves the hotel team's daily operations. You can configure personalised, temporary access profiles for housekeeping, maintenance, suppliers and external services.
For example, our Lockerfy lock lets you manage staff access to lockers in common areas. This information can be monitored and updated remotely, saving you time and reducing human error.
5. PMS Integration and energy savings
A digital key system can also be seamlessly integrated into your hotel PMS and energy efficiency systems.
For example, by linking the mobile key to the reservation system, you can activate the room automatically before the guest arrives. Then, with technologies like our energy-saving devices, the lights and air conditioning will be turned on only when the guest is present.
This all reduces energy use and improves hotel efficiency, helping you meet guest expectations.
6. Premium brand experience and upselling
When guests can use just their mobile phone to enter the hotel without queueing or using a physical key, they will always feel like they're in modern, flexible premium accommodation.
Plus, you can leverage this digital channel to pursue an upselling strategy and send personalised notifications: e.g. a room upgrade, a spa promotion, restaurant reservation, etc.
7. Increased ROI and scalability
Although the operational benefits of implementing digital keys in your hotel seem advantageous, perhaps you're wondering if the investment is worth it? Well, the answer is yes: a return on this investment is usually achieved in less than 12 months.
And, what is more, it's a completely scalable solution. You can start implementing it in a single area of the hotel and expand its use according to your needs.
Choose Omnitec as your digital key provider
Do you want to take a step towards a digital key system in your hotel? If so, you need a provider that can offer you advanced technology as well as real experience in the sector. At Omnitec, we have spent many years helping hotels around the world improve their access systems, with intuitive, secure solutions which are easily integrable into the hotel's daily operations.
Our goal is to make your tasks easier and, above all, optimise your guests' experience. If you want to invest in a smart, flexible, future-proof access system, we're eager to help you. Contact us now!