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AI in hospitality: How technology will transform the industry for the better

15 Aug 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) is not going to replace humans in the job market anytime soon. Instead, it can be used to improve the way we live, work, play, and travel. The hospitality industry is particularly well-suited for AI, says Jose Soares, director of IT at The Capital Hotels, Apartments and Resorts, adding that it can be used to automate tasks, improve efficiency, and provide personalised service to guests.

However, the rapid evolution of AI will also lead to challenges in the hospitality industry. For example, AI could lead to job losses in some areas, such as front-desk staff and housekeeping. It is important for hospitality professionals to understand the potential impact of AI on their jobs so that they can proactively adapt to the changing landscape.

Image source: Gallo/Getty

Soares says: "By enabling the rapid processing or understanding of user data, AI helps us provide a more personal touch without inundating staff with work. It will help hotels reduce the amount of rudimental work our staff has to do thus freeing them up for other work."

Streamlining operations

AI can optimise back-end operations such as inventory management, supply chain logistics, and reservation systems. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, AI can analyse large volumes of data, leading to improved efficiency, cost reduction, and enhanced guest experiences.

Soares says: "One of the big tasks we are involved in is building out a platform that enables various parts of our business to seamlessly ‘talk’ to one another in real-time. AI can then interpret that information and we can use the data to glean insights that influence our business strategy.”

By leaving AI-powered systems to automate repetitive tasks, companies can free up human resources to focus on more creative and complex tasks.

Personalised guest experiences

One of the greatest strengths of AI lies in its ability to analyse guest preferences and behaviours, says Soares, adding that with the aid of AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants, hotels and restaurants can provide personalised recommendations, concierge services, and real-time assistance. By leveraging AI, businesses can enhance guest satisfaction, improve customer loyalty, and create memorable experiences that cater to individual needs.

#ATMDubai: Enhancing the customer experience through AI

Robin Fredericks 5 May 2023

"In this industry customer satisfaction is everything and with this technology, we can quickly respond to client queries, both in and out of business hours. AI-powered booking engines also utilise AI to predict the products or rooms it sells or promotes to specific users, based on patterns it defines from consumption and market data," says Soares.

Upskilling the workforce

As AI takes over mundane tasks, there will be a growing need to reskill and upskill the workforce, continues Soares. "This gives hospitality professionals a chance to embrace continuous learning to stay ahead of the curve.

"By acquiring knowledge in AI-related fields, such as data analysis, programming, and user experience design, individuals can adapt to new roles and harness the transformative potential of AI. Organisations that invest in training programs to support their staff, stand to reap huge benefits in the future.

Embracing the tech revolution: What hotels need to do to stay ahead

Anton Gillis 3 May 2023

"The rapid advancement of AI technology promises to reshape the hospitality industry in profound ways. While some jobs may undergo transformations or become automated, the emergence of AI also presents a host of new opportunities for professionals who adapt and embrace the evolving landscape. Embracing the AI revolution is not a threat, it’s an invitation to transform and thrive," concludes Soares.