The hospitality industry is undergoing a technological revolution. From AI-powered chatbots to smart room technology, the landscape is changing rapidly, offering exciting opportunities to improve efficiency and enhance guest experiences.
Whether you’re already embracing tech or just starting your digital transformation, staying ahead is essential to remain competitive — especially as rising costs put pressure on the industry.
However, simply implementing the latest technology isn’t enough. Success depends on how these new systems are integrated and adopted by your team.
The importance of effective change management
The key to a successful tech rollout lies in change management. It’s not just about software; it’s about the people using it. Hospitality teams are often busy and diverse, with varying levels of tech comfort. A poorly managed transition can lead to confusion, resistance, and missed opportunities—ultimately affecting ROI.
“The success of technology adoption in hospitality is determined less by the tech itself and more by how well it’s integrated into daily operations and embraced by staff.” – Rachel Giunti, Operations Lead, Allara Global
A strategic approach to change management should start long before the new system goes live. Clear communication is critical. Help your team understand how the technology will simplify their jobs, improve guest interactions, and contribute to the overall success of the business. Address concerns proactively and involve staff in the process—this can identify potential roadblocks early and gain buy-in from the outset.
Training: Empowering your team with technology
Training is essential for ensuring your team is confident and competent using new tech tools. Traditional training methods can be slow and inefficient, especially in industries with high staff turnover. This is where online training platforms can be a game-changer. These platforms go beyond just onboarding—they centralise all training resources, including new technologies, making them easily accessible to your team.
“74% of workers feel they aren’t reaching their full potential at work due to a lack of development opportunities.” – LinkedIn Learning
Centralised online training offers flexibility and convenience. Imagine a single platform where employees can access training materials—such as how-to videos, interactive tutorials, and FAQs—whenever they need them. Mobile access is crucial, allowing staff to learn at their own pace, from anywhere, at any time. Short, focused modules are more effective than lengthy manuals, making them ideal for the fast-paced hospitality environment.
Quick access to support and knowledge
Beyond training, these online resources also serve as quick reference guides. Instead of interrupting colleagues or flipping through manuals, employees can find answers instantly on their smartphones or tablets. This self-sufficiency improves efficiency, empowers staff, and frees up managers to focus on other priorities.
“We have over 140,000 learners on our platform, with 76% of hospitality employees using the mobile app, for its accessibility and convenience, to complete their training.” – Andrew Lewis, CEO, Allara Global
Scalability and consistency
As your business grows, online training scales with it. New staff can access the same high-quality training as existing employees, ensuring consistency across the organisation. Unlike traditional methods, online platforms save time and resources, offering a more sustainable training solution. Additionally, built-in tracking features allow you to monitor staff progress, identify areas for improvement, and provide targeted support.
Conclusion: A recipe for success
By prioritising change management, investing in comprehensive training, and fostering a supportive environment, hospitality businesses can successfully navigate the tech revolution. The result is a more efficient team, happier guests, and a stronger bottom line. Embrace the future with the right tools, and your business can thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
“When you put people first, everyone stands to gain.” –Valerie Hughes-D’Aeth, Chair of the Board, Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development