Guest Post: Why you don't need an in-house development team to have a branded guest app for your hotel

Sjeel Koster, co-founder and CEO of HolidayHero, talks us through her thoughts

In an era where technology plays a pivotal role in shaping the hospitality industry, the guest experience has become a focal point for hotels striving to stay competitive. A key element in this pursuit is developing a branded hotel guest app, a digital gateway that enhances communication, convenience, and overall satisfaction for guests. 

The challenges of in-house development

While an in-house development team may seem appealing, it has inherent challenges. The financial burden of maintaining a dedicated team, prolonged development cycles, and the need for ongoing technical support can pose significant obstacles for hotels seeking a quick and efficient solution. Time is of the essence in the dynamic hospitality sector, and the traditional in-house development approach may need to align with the industry's demand for rapid innovation and adaptation.

Benefits of outsourcing to a Saas provider

Outsourcing to a SaaS provider introduces a paradigm shift in how hotels approach the development of their guest apps. The cost efficiency achieved through streamlined processes and shared resources allows hotels to redirect funds to core business operations. Speed to market is significantly accelerated, enabling hotels to rapidly deploy a fully functional guest app and stay ahead of evolving guest expectations. Moreover, partnering with a SaaS provider grants access to specialised expertise, ensuring that the guest app meets the hotel's unique needs and aligns with industry best practices, positioning it at the forefront of innovation.

Customisation and branding

One of the unique strengths of SaaS solutions is their ability to provide tailor-made, branded experiences for hotels. This level of customisation ensures that the app not only meets the functional needs of the hotel but also becomes an extension of its brand, creating a cohesive and memorable experience for guests.

Security and compliance

Addressing concerns about data security and compliance is paramount in the hospitality industry. SaaS providers prioritise robust security measures to safeguard guest information and ensure compliance with industry regulations. The assurance of a secure and compliant guest app protects the hotel and its guests and builds trust, a cornerstone of any successful hospitality establishment.

Scalability and future proofing

As hotels aim for growth, scalability, and future-proofing become critical considerations. SaaS solutions are designed to scale seamlessly, accommodating the evolving needs of the hotel business. HolidayHero's guest experience platform allows hotels to expand effortlessly and ensures that their guest app remains adaptive to emerging technologies and industry trends, providing a long-term, sustainable solution.

Integrating with existing systems

The concern over integrating existing systems is valid for any tech adoption. SaaS guest experience platforms prioritise seamless integration. This minimises disruptions during implementation, allowing hotels to enhance operational efficiency without overhauling their entire technological infrastructure. The result is a holistic and interconnected digital ecosystem that optimizes every aspect of the guest experience, from check-in to check-out.

In conclusion, the advantages of outsourcing to a SaaS provider for a branded hotel guest app are undeniable. From cost efficiency and rapid deployment to customisation, security, and scalability, SaaS solutions offer a comprehensive package tailored to the specific needs of the hospitality industry. For CIOs, CTOs, and tech decision-makers, exploring SaaS options represents a strategic move towards meeting and exceeding guest expectations in the ever-evolving hospitality technology landscape.