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The term ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) is no longer the sole domain of tech aficionados. It’s resonating through industries far and wide, sparking transformative changes – none more so than in the labyrinthine world of travel. The IoT wave isn’t merely another cog in the industry’s machine but a pivotal gear driving a revolution marked by enhanced, tailored customer experiences and boosted operational efficiency.
IoT – redefining personalisation
One significant benefit of IoT lies in its ability to glean insight into customer behaviour. A report by Aruba Networks shows that 83 per cent of companies adopting IoT have seen increased efficiency. Airlines, for instance, are harnessing IoT to monitor luggage in real-time, a development that helps assure travellers about the safety of their belongings. An example is Delta Air Lines‘ “Track My Bags” feature, enabling passengers to follow their bag’s journey via the Fly Delta mobile app.
It’s not just airlines leveraging this tech wonder; hotels, too, are delving into the IoT world. Picture this: you enter your hotel room, and the temperature is just as you prefer, the lights dimmed to your liking, and your favourite tunes playing softly in the background. Hotels like Hilton and Marriott are integrating IoT to provide smart rooms, offering personalised experiences to guests based on their stored preferences. IoT is amplifying the luxury quotient of travel.
Operational efficiency – supercharged by IoT
IoT isn’t just about enhancing customer experience; it’s also about refining the behind-the-scenes operations that make these experiences possible. According to Verizon’s report, 77 per cent of companies say IoT has improved their ability to gather data, make informed decisions, and thereby boost operational efficiency. An airline’s food service inventory, energy use in hotel rooms, or fleet maintenance in car rental services – IoT data significantly reduce costs and enhance efficiency, setting new industry standards.
Safety and security in a post-pandemic world
In the new normal, safety takes precedence over all else. And this is another domain where IoT shines. Contactless services have become the new standard, with companies like Disney introducing MagicBands – an all-in-one device that connects to the entire Disney ecosystem, allowing guests to enter parks, unlock hotel rooms, and buy food and merchandise without any physical contact.
In a highly competitive landscape, predictive analytics gives businesses the edge they need to outperform their rivals and thrive in the dynamic world of travel. The insights gleaned from predictive analytics empower travel companies to stay ahead of the curve, making intelligent decisions that delight customers and drive business success.
A greener tomorrow with IoT
Travel companies are leveraging IoT to make strides in sustainability. According to a survey by Inmarsat, 65 per cent of organisations agree that IoT is vital in improving their environmental sustainability. From energy management, waste reduction to tracking carbon footprints, IoT is playing a pivotal role in building a greener travel industry. For instance, Carnival Cruise Line uses IoT sensors to monitor energy usage and minimise waste, significantly reducing its environmental footprint. This kind of initiative is paving the way for a sustainable future where travel doesn’t mean compromising our planet.
The road ahead
There’s no doubt that IoT is transforming the travel industry in profound ways. The high initial costs involved in implementing IoT solutions may seem daunting, but the potential ROI from increased customer satisfaction, improved efficiency, and sustainable practices is more than worth it. The question now is not about ‘if,’ but ‘how fast’ we can harness IoT’s full potential to redefine how we experience travel.
In conclusion, IoT is no longer an optional accessory; it’s a must-have power tool for the travel industry. It’s redefining boundaries, breaking conventions, and propelling the industry towards an era of hyper-personalisation, efficiency, and sustainability. IoT is set to redefine travel, and as we step into this exciting future, we stand at the cusp of an era defined not just by technology but by enriched experiences, sustainability, and, ultimately, a transformed world of travel.
The author is the Founder & CEO of Bytebeam.
DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and ETTravelWorld.com does not necessarily subscribe to it. ETTravelWorld.com shall not be responsible for any damage caused to any person/organisation directly or indirectly.
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