HITEC Rewind: James Harrison on the role of AI in improving guest room technology

At HITEC 2024, Simone Puorto spoke with James Harrison, Head of Solutions Design at InfrateQ EMEA. They explored the potential impact of AI on the hospitality industry, particularly in the realm of guest room technology.

Introduction and role at InfrateQ EMEA

James Harrison introduces and introduces InfrateQ EMEA, a Dubai-based company specialising in deploying advanced technology solutions for the hospitality industry in EMEA. Their focus is on integrating multiple technologies within guest rooms, including networking solutions, Wi-Fi, room controls, interactive elements such as TV systems and tablets, and ensuring these technologies work seamlessly together.

Potential Impact of AI on Hospitality Technology

James discusses how AI could revolutionize his industry over the next 12 months. He emphasizes the role of AI in improving the deployment and testing of guest room technologies, ensuring a consistent, high-quality guest experience.

Improving Guest Experience through AI

James explains that deploying new technology in guest rooms involves rigorous testing to ensure that everything works as expected. This process, known as User Acceptance Testing (UAT), ensures that guests can use Wi-Fi, control thermostats, stream content to TVs, and order room service via tablets. He believes that AI can significantly streamline this process by automating the testing phase, identifying and fixing configuration issues before human testers even begin their work.

AI as a beta tester

James envisions AI acting as a “beta tester,” learning from the deployment process and providing feedback to improve future configurations. This would not only reduce the workload for human testers, but also increase the accuracy and reliability of initial deployments, ensuring that guests have a flawless experience from the start.

The Role of AI in Employee Training

Simone introduces the idea of ​​using AI to train staff on new technologies. While James hadn’t considered this application before, he recognizes its potential. The data collected by AI during the testing phase could be used to create comprehensive training programs, helping staff understand and manage technology more effectively based on real-world insights.

Conclusion

James concludes by highlighting the transformative potential of AI in the hospitality industry. By automating the testing and configuration of guestroom technologies, AI can enhance the guest experience, reduce errors, and streamline operations. Additionally, data generated by AI can be leveraged to develop robust training programs for staff, further improving service quality and efficiency.

This interview is part of Hospitality Net’s HITEC 2024 series, where industry leaders share their insights on the future of hospitality technology.

Vestaboard – The medium for your most inspired messages

Showcase what matters most, on a schedule that works for you. Share thoughtful messages, inspirational quotes, and beautiful designs with your favorite people, from anywhere in the world. www.vestaboard.com