The tourism industry is constantly evolving, driven by innovation and digitization. Within this context, the Iberostar Group has taken a bold step toward the future with its open innovation program, Digital Hotel. The aim of this project is to redefine the guest experience and consolidate the Group’s firm commitment to sustainability in an ever-changing digital context.

 

Open Innovation in Digital Hotel

Digital Hotel, the Iberostar Group’s open innovation program, is a groundbreaking initiative within the tourism industry in Spain. Beyond simply being a digitization project, it constitutes a comprehensive approach that promotes innovation in all aspects of the hospitality industry. This program not only involves internal resources, but it also promotes collaboration with big technology companies such as Google, Microsoft, and Amazon to name a few.

Digital Hotel’s main objective is to create minimum viable products (MVPs) to improve the experience of both guests and employees, providing tools that make their day-to-day easier while simultaneously supporting the company’s aim, to be leaders in responsible tourism.

 

A Journey of Constant Innovation

Since its launch in 2021, Digital Hotel has grown significantly. The program currently features 11 approved products, each one designed to transform and enrich the experience of guests at the Iberostar Group’s hotels:

1.  eGuest Manager: this is an internal platform that has reduced the time it takes to respond to guests’ requests by 20%.

2.  Chromecast: this allows guests to personalize their experience by casting content from their devices to the screens in their rooms.

3.  Online Check-in: this speeds up the hotel check-in process for guests by allowing them to scan documents and digitally sign paperwork before they arrive.

4.  Iberostar Channel: this improves communication and sustainability by removing the need for hard copies of directories in the rooms.

5.  Smart trash cans: they contribute to our 2025 zero-waste objective by analyzing and reducing the waste generated at our hotels.

6.  Digitization of timekeeping records: this has significantly reduced the time dedicated to manual tasks while also decreasing paper waste.

7.  Route geolocation: this makes it easier for guests to find their way around the hotel complex. Soon, it will also include information about capacity at bars and restaurants.

8.  Digital trash cans to automatically weigh waste: they contribute to our 2025 zero-waste objective.

9.  Food and drink orders through the app: this offers guests an even more convenient and personalized experience.

10.  Rideshare app: this promotes sustainability by allowing employees to share rides and save money.

11.  Autonomous robots at buffets: they improve the staff’s efficiency, enhancing customer service.

 

Exploring New Frontiers of Innovation

Digital Hotel does not stop here. The program continues to work on projects related to sustainability, artificial intelligence, and improved guest experience. This constant pursuit of innovation allows the Iberostar Group to continue offering its guests an exceptional and sustainable experience in an ever-changing world.

The Iberostar Group’s Digital Hotel project is an inspiring example of how innovation can transform the tourism industry while also consolidating its commitment to sustainability and excellence in customer service. This initiative continues to pave the way toward an exciting and responsible future in the hospitality industry.

 

Jorge Ulecia -  Digital Innovation Manager at Iberostar Group