TigerTMS origins date back to the early 1980s and has carried the badge of honour of being market-leader for call accounting (tracking and analysing guest phone usage for billing purposes) ever since.  Whilst there are compelling reasons that hoteliers retain phones in guest rooms (not least security, nostalgia, comfort, immediate conversation with staff, and the 5* experience), there has been a shift towards guests using mobile phones to streamline guest services.

Many of today’s guests expect convenience at their fingertips - mobile solutions can support this by enabling real-time responses to enquiries and requests, reducing wait times and enhancing satisfaction. The immediacy of direct access to services, streamlined communication to staff, and a more personalized service using mobile devices, contributes significantly to creating memorable experiences that guests are more likely to share and return for.

Mobile platforms are a powerful tool to improve operational efficiencies. Removing repetitive and time-consuming requests from guests relieves pressures on staff, freeing them to focus on more meaningful guest interactions.

Mobile technology also aligns perfectly with the hospitality industry's growing focus on sustainability. At its lowest level, simply by providing a digital guest directory, menus and other in-room materials, hotels can reduce paper and printing costs, while offering a modern, high-touch experience.

In short, advancements in mobile technology offer an alternative to in-room phones. This was the driver for TigerTMS to invest R&D into QR based mobile technology, adding iPortal to its portfolio of solutions.  Unlike app-based platforms that require guests to download and install an app, often a barrier to engagement, iPortal allows instant access to services by simply scanning a QR code. This frictionless entry point significantly improves adoption and usage, especially for short-stay guests or those with limited phone storage.

Another major benefit is the seamless delivery of services across all mobile devices and operating systems, without compatibility concerns. It’s a truly universal solution that guests use on their own devices, with no learning curve.

Integration to a PMS unlocks a deeper layer of functionality that significantly expands its value. It enables features such as "View Bill" and "Express Checkout," as well as allowing guests to set their "Do Not Disturb" status, “Order Food and Beverages and Charge to Room” or even send housekeeping requests such as “Make Up My Room”. These integrated services create a seamless and personalised experience for guests, while also improving operational efficiency for staff.

From a hotel’s standpoint, iPortal is more cost-effective and easier to maintain than traditional apps. Updates and changes can be made centrally, directly by hotel staff, and reflected in real-time.  Ultimately, QR-based solutions like iPortal strike the perfect balance between convenience, accessibility, and efficiency - for both guests and hoteliers.

Whether a hotel’s strategy is to provide in-room phones offering reliable communication with a dedicated line to staff or align with the change toward QR-based solutions like iPortal that provide the perfect balance between convenience, accessibility, and efficiency to enhance the guest experience, TigerTMS delivers.

For more information, visit https://www.tigertms.com/solutions/iportal/  or reach out via email at Sandeep.nair@tigertms.com.