The document discusses the complexities and potential over-engineering of technology in hotel rooms, highlighting a humorous experience with an overly complicated shower system. It cites research conducted in Dubai showing guest preferences for simpler amenities, revealing a strong preference for free WiFi over free breakfast and a desire for manual controls over high-tech solutions. The content emphasizes the need for thoughtful technology integration in hospitality that prioritizes guest needs and experiences.

1. Can hotel rooms ever be too tech?
Or: Why do I need a degree in quantum
engineering to operate your showers?
Martin Kubler FIH
CEO – Iconsulthotels
Hospitality, Tourism, & Service Industries Consulting | Innovation Specialist,
Writer, Trainer
www.iconsulthotels.com

2. “I hit a button which, instead of turning on the shower
head above me, shot a stream of water from an
unspecified location which hit me directly in the groin.”

3. Turn the mundane task of
turning on the lights into a
unnecessarily complex
procedure with this
overcomplicated light switch
cover! Our custom covers come
with a variety of intricate designs
that are true marvels of over-
engineering.

4. Travellers have changed. The way they travel has changed. The reason(s) they
require accommodation has changed. But…

5. • Easy to Impress
• One-Way Communication
• One Thing at a Time

6. • Hard to Impress
• Multi-Way Communication
• Everything at the Same Time

7. We asked 218 guests in luxury & midmarket hotel in Dubai a couple of questions…
Research carried out Q1 2015, random samples, 60% luxury properties, 40% midmarket. Sample details available on request.
Would you rather have free breakfast or free WiFi? Pick one option only.
Breakfast WiFi
28% 72%

8. We asked 218 guests in luxury & midmarket hotel in Dubai a couple of questions…
Research carried out Q1 2015, random samples, 60% luxury properties, 40% midmarket. Sample details available on request.
Would you rather control lights, AC, and curtains via a room control panel
or manually / via individual switches?
RCP Switches
39% 61%

9. We asked 218 guests in luxury & midmarket hotel in Dubai a couple of questions…
Research carried out Q1 2015, random samples, 60% luxury properties, 40% midmarket. Sample details available on request.
Would you pay extra for a room with state-of-the-art interactive TVs that let
you surf the Internet and order room service?
Yes No
14% 86%

10. We asked 218 guests in luxury & midmarket hotel in Dubai a couple of questions…
Research carried out Q1 2015, random samples, 60% luxury properties, 40% midmarket. Sample details available on request.
In your opinion, what’s the most overrated piece of technology you have
ever encountered in a hotel room?
Bathroom Telephone 19%
Room Control Panel 26%
iPad / Tablet Controller 17%
Multiple mentions were possible, only the top 3 mentions are listed.

15. • It adds value – “What’s in it for me?”
• It’s developed from the guest’s
perspective, not powered by your
opinion or perceptions
• It’s consistent
• It’s intuitive
• It’s aimed at the right audience
• It’s supported by great service

16. How do you tip a robot butler? And what happens if you don’t?