Why technology matters in hotels

For travellers, technology underpins the flawless experiences they desire. From streaming and hybrid work, to mobile check-in, contactless payments, and personalized services, technology is no longer a nice surprise – it’s an essential element of their trip.

For hotel operators, technology unlocks smarter, safer and more sustainable operations. Smart platforms, IoT sensors, automation, and data-driven decision-making optimize processes, cut costs, and reduce risk.

What we measure in hotel technology

We assess the technology features that matter most to today’s hotel guests. From guest-facing digitally enabled experiences to technological foundations that can support resilient, sustainable, future-ready operations. We measure what matters.

User Functionality

Digital Services

Guest connectivity and experiences: robust Wi-Fi coverage & performance, secure guest networking, in-room entertainment/casting, unified guest app/portal, and emerging features like AI concierge.

User Functionality

Access & Navigation

Frictionless movement and entry: mobile check-in, mobile keys, elevator optimization, smart parking, and digital wayfinding/queue management.

User Functionality

Operational Excellence

Efficient back-of-house: work orders, predictive maintenance, cleaning orchestration, inventory automation, and data-led staff deployment.

User Functionality

Safety & Security

Proactive protection: access alerts, intrusion detection, emergency notifications/PA, and advanced video analytics.

User Functionality

Sustainability Technology

Lower impact, smarter use: energy/water/waste dashboards, eco-mode automation, smart irrigation/renewables, EV charging, and guest-engaged green nudges.

User Functionality

Wellbeing

Healthy, comfortable stays: IAQ monitoring/alerts, comfort optimization, and lighting strategies such as circadian and daylight harvesting

Technological Foundation

Systems Integration

The digital backbone: telecom rooms & resiliency, dedicated OT integration network, BMS/operational platforms, system availability (incl. in-building mobile), asset information management (BIM/digital twin), and integration innovation.

Technological Foundation

Cybersecurity

Governance, network design, and cyber controls for secure, resilient operations (plus innovation in threat monitoring and incident response).

Technological Foundation

Data Management

Aggregation & accessibility (incl. independent data layer), standardized ontology/metadata, and data-management innovation

The value of SmartScore certification for Hotels

Differentiate your hotel with best-in-class guest experiences

SmartScore certification signals a new standard in modern hospitality — where technology quietly empowers effortless comfort, connection, and inspiration. For business and leisure travelers alike, it provides reassurance that every stay will feel seamless, personal, and inspiring, powered by digital excellence behind the scenes.

You'll receive:

  • Certification seals - Globally recognized proof of digital excellence

  • Fact sheet - Tailored and easy-to-share asset summary for prospective guests, brands, and partners

  • Marketing tools - Assets to promote your technology advantage across OTAs, loyalty programs, and brand channels

Deliver hotels built on resilient and adaptable digital foundations

Future-proof your assets against disruption with infrastructure designed for redundancy, resilience, and robust security. SmartScore certification validates that your hotel can withstand digital downtime, minimize operational risk, and ensure uninterrupted guest services while adapting quickly to evolving needs.

You'll receive:

  • Best practice guide - Recommendations to strengthen guest-facing and operational technology

  • Certification report - Detailed assessment of your hotel’s digital backbone

  • Technical workshop - Expert support to evaluate your asset against our global standards

  • Delivery support - Tools to track progress and achieve higher certification levels

Position your brand at the forefront of regenerative, technology-enabled tourism

SmartScore aligns your asset with global ESG frameworks, strengthens investor confidence, and positions your brand as a leader in responsible, future-ready hospitality.

You'll receive:

  • Data syndication - Extractable insights for investor stakeholders

  • Investor report - Concise summary highlighting digital strengths and certification outcome

  • GRESB/PRI guidance - Practical advice on using SmartScore certification to support GRESB, PRI, and broader sustainability reporting

Stand out in markets where discerning travelers demand seamless, sustainable, and future-ready hotel experiences.

What is SmartScore certification for hotels?

SmartScore certification for hotels is the global standard for digital experience and smart technology in hospitality. It assesses digital services, smart features, systems integration, cybersecurity, sustainability, and data management. Certification proves that hotels can deliver seamless, resilient, and future-ready guest experience.

What are the benefits of SmartScore certification for hotels?

Certification assures guests of seamless connectivity and smart services during their stay, from streaming and mobile access to digital concierge and sustainability features. It benchmarks hotels against global technology standards, strengthens investor reporting, supports ESG commitments, and positions properties as future-ready assets in tourism-driven markets.

What is the SmartScore certification process for hotels?

The SmartScore certification process for hotels starts with a detailed assessment and evidence submission. You’ll receive a tailored report showing how your hotel performs against the SmartScore scorecard, with clear recommendations to improve guest experience, operational efficiency, and sustainability outcomes. Once enhancements are complete, the property is awarded a certification level — Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum — proving its technology maturity and future readiness.

What deliverables do hotels receive with SmartScore certification?

Hotels achieving SmartScore certification receive a suite of deliverables that demonstrate and promote their technology performance. These include the SmartScore certification seal, a technical assessment report, and a fact sheet summarizing digital capabilities for guests, partners, and investors. Certified hotels also receive best practice guidance, marketing tools to promote digital excellence, and data resources to support ESG and sustainability reporting through frameworks such as GRESB and PRI. Together, these deliverables position your hotel as a future-ready, technology-enabled destination built on resilient and intelligent systems.

How long does SmartScore certification for hotels take, and how long does it last?

The SmartScore certification for hotels process typically takes three to six months, depending on the property’s size and complexity. Accredited Professionals assess building evidence against the SmartScore scorecard, then deliver a detailed report outlining performance and improvement opportunities.

Certification remains valid for two years. After this period, hotels can pursue certification renewal to maintain alignment with evolving technology standards and guest expectations. Renewal is also an opportunity to showcase digital upgrades, operational improvements, and sustainability innovations introduced since the original certification.

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