At February's Travel Technology Europe show in Olympia, instant interaction specialists Ensygnia, demonstrated and launched a new smartphone-based check-in and payment system that could help virtually eliminate hotel check-in queues.
A new application of Ensygnia’s award-winning and patented Onescan process enables travellers to simply scan a code in reception in order to check-in for their stay. They then receive their room number and other details about their stay direct to the Onescan, hotel or booking app on their smartphone. At the room, a further scan, key code or Bluetooth can unlock the door; alternatively, self-service key-validation can be enabled using existing hotel infrastructure and equipment.
The system works by integrating the Onescan instant interaction platform with a hotel’s management system. Scanning the code allows the system to retrieve and register the name of the guest, the length of stay, and the room details as well as to add any loyalty data or offer upgrade options if available.
The system presents all the relevant details on the smartphone screen for the guest to confirm, sends a copy of the guest’s ID or passport information to reception, and puts a payment method on file without having to hand over a physical payment card or passport at any stage. The whole process also completes in seconds.
Throughout the stay, Onescan enables guests to simply and easily order additional services via their smartphone, either through the hotel app or driven directly by visual calls-to-action displayed around the hotel. This can be anything from room service, to restaurant bookings, shopping, events, excursions, value-added services or any special offers the hotel presents.
The service runs using bank grade security to safeguard each user’s personal and financial data which is protected and accessed by Ensygnia’s secure platform and its patented Picture & PIN technology.
At the end of their stay, guests can review their bill - and split items between personal and business expenses if required - and then quickly and easily pay using the appropriate card details without leaving the app. Receipts are sent immediately to the app and also by email.
Announcing Onescan for check-in, Ensygnia CEO Richard H Harris said: “The value for hotels is not just the faster check-in, but also the instant interaction marketing and customer service that it enables both when guests are staying and when they are at home. It delivers a huge increase in guest engagement.”
“And of course, for guests, it will mean they can check-in quicker, order smarter, and pay easier,” he said.
Ensygnia demonstration of Onescan for hotel check-in was very well received with many hotels and airlines expressing an interest.
Ensygnia was also won second place in TTE's Disrupt Awards.