RFID, BLE, IoT & Drones for Accommodation Industry

Overview

The accommodation industry encompasses businesses that provide lodging or accommodations to travelers, tourists, or other individuals. This includes hotels, motels, resorts, bed and breakfasts, hostels, and vacation rentals. The industry plays a vital role in the tourism industry and provides a range of services to guests, including overnight accommodations, food and beverage services, recreational activities, and meeting and event spaces. The industry is highly competitive and relies heavily on customer satisfaction and positive reviews to attract and retain guests.

GAO’s RFID, BLE, IoT, and drone technologies have helped its customers in the accommodation industry to improve their work processes, their operations and productivity by better management of their staff, materials, and operational equipment such as beds, mattresses, pillows, and bedding, towels, bathrobes, and slippers, furniture such as chairs, tables, and desks, cleaning equipment such as vacuum cleaners, mops, and brooms, laundry equipment such as washing machines and dryers, kitchen equipment such as refrigerators, ovens, and stovetops, food and beverage service equipment such as plates, glasses, and silverware, audiovisual equipment such as televisions and projectors, HVAC systems for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, safety equipment such as fire alarms and extinguishers, security cameras, and emergency lighting.

Ranked as a top 10 global RFID supplier and based in New York City and Toronto, GAO RFID Inc offers a wide choice of RFID (radio frequency identification) readers and tags at ultra-high frequency (UHF), high frequency (HF, including NFC) and low frequency (LF), BLE (Low Energy Bluetooth) gateways and beacons, and various RFID and BLE systems such as people tracking, asset tracking, access control, parking control, fleet management, WIP (work in progress), traceability. Such RFID and BLE products and systems, together with its IoT and drone technologies, have been widely used in the accommodation industry.

Applications & Benefits of GAO’s RFID, BLE, IoT & Drones for the Accommodation

To satisfy its customers, GAO’s RFID or RFID systems for the accommodation industry are offered in 2 versions. One version is that its software is running on a local server, and another version is that its software runs in the cloud. The above illustrates GAO system for the accommodation industry with its software running on a local server.


The above illustrates GAO system for the accommodation industry with its software running in cloud.

GAO’s RFID technologies bring the many benefits to the accommodation industry:

  • Improved Security: GAO’s RFID readers can be used to improve security by providing access control to guest rooms, restricted areas, and other sensitive locations. It can also help track the movement of guests and staff within the property, reducing the risk of theft and other security breaches.
  • Enhanced Guest Experience: GAO’s RFID readers can be used to personalize the guest experience by providing customized amenities and services. For example, it can be used to automatically adjust room temperature and lighting to the guest’s preferences, or to provide personalized recommendations for nearby attractions and restaurants.
  • Data Analytics: Our RFID readers can be used to collect data on guest behavior, preferences, and usage patterns. This data can be analyzed to improve operations, personalize services, and identify areas for improvement.

GAO’s BLE technologies offer a longer reading range and are particularly attractive for applications with larger workspaces within the accommodation industry:

  • Personalized Guest Experience: Our BLE technology can be used to send push notifications and provide guests with personalized recommendations for nearby attractions, restaurants, and events. This can enhance the guest experience and increase guest satisfaction.
  • Improved Efficiency: GAO’s BLE technology can be used to automate check-in and check-out processes, reducing the time and effort required by hotel staff. It can also be used to track inventory, monitor guest room conditions, and manage housekeeping tasks, making operations more efficient.

GAO’s RFID and drone technologies are often combined, and such solutions offer the following benefits to the accommodation industry:

  • Improved Housekeeping: RFID readers can be used to track guest room usage.
  • Enhanced Guest Experience: RFID readers can be used to personalize the guest experience, while drones can be used to provide guests with unique and memorable experiences, such as aerial tours of the property.
  • Reduced Operational Costs: The combination of RFID and drones can help reduce operational costs by automating tasks and improving efficiency, such as by using drones to quickly restock inventory or by using RFID technology to automate check-in and check-out processes.

Here are benefits of GAO’s IoT technologies to the accommodation industry:

  • Smart Room Control: GAO’s IoT technology can enable guests to control room temperature, lighting, and other amenities using their mobile devices. This can enhance the guest experience and increase guest satisfaction.
  • Predictive Maintenance: Our IoT technology can be used to monitor equipment and detect potential issues before they become major problems, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
  • Personalized Services: Our IoT technology can be used to track guest preferences and provide personalized recommendations for nearby attractions, restaurants, and events. This can enhance the guest experience and increase guest loyalty.
  • Seamless Check-In and Check-Out: Our IoT technology can be used to automate check-in and check-out processes, reducing the time and effort required by hotel staff and improving guest satisfaction.

GAO’s Assists Clients with Standards, Mandates & Regulations of the Accommodation

GAO RFID Inc. has developed its products and systems in compliance with industry standards and mandates. GAO has assisted our customers in the accommodation industry to deploy RFID, BLE, IoT and drone systems and to ensure such deployments complying with applicable industry standards, U.S. government regulations and Canadian government regulations such as

RFID, BLE, IoT, & Drone Standards & Mandates

There are several RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) standards related to the accommodation industry. Some of the most used standards include:

  • MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport): This is a lightweight messaging protocol that is commonly used in IoT systems for sending and receiving data between devices. It is commonly used in the accommodation industry for real-time monitoring and control of devices and sensors.
  • FAA Part 107: This is a regulation from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States that governs the operation of drones for commercial purposes. It includes requirements for drone pilot certification, operating procedures, and safety standards.
  • ASTM F38: This is a standard developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) that provides guidance on the use of drones in search and rescue operations. It includes recommendations for operational procedures, pilot training, and safety protocols.
  • EPC (Electronic Product Code) Global: This is a set of standards for RFID technology developed by the EPC Global organization. It includes guidelines for the use of RFID tags and readers, as well as data sharing and privacy standards. While not specific to the accommodation industry, these standards are commonly used in supply chain and logistics applications that may be relevant to hotels and resorts.
  • FDA UDI (Unique Device Identification) Rule: This is a mandate from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that requires certain medical devices to carry a unique identifier using RFID technology. While not directly relevant to the accommodation industry, hotels and resorts that provide medical facilities or services may need to comply with this rule.
  • IATA (International Air Transport Association) RFID Guidelines: These guidelines provide recommendations for the use of RFID technology in baggage handling and tracking for air travel. While not directly relevant to hotels and resorts, the use of RFID tags for luggage tracking may be of interest to hotels near airports or those offering airport shuttle services.
  • FCC (Federal Communications Commission) regulations: These regulations govern the use of radio frequency devices in the United States, including Bluetooth devices such as BLE beacons. Hotels and resorts that use BLE beacons or other wireless devices may need to comply with these regulations to ensure that they are not causing harmful interference with other devices.
  • GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation): This regulation from the European Union applies to the collection, use, and storage of personal data. Hotels and resorts that use BLE beacons or other wireless devices to collect data on guests may need to comply with GDPR requirements to ensure that they are protecting guest privacy.
  • FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) regulations: These regulations govern the use of drones in the United States, including registration, certification, and operation requirements. Hotels and resorts that use drones for tasks such as aerial photography or inspections may need to comply with these regulations to ensure that they are using drones safely and legally.
  • Transport Canada regulations: Like the FAA regulations, Transport Canada has regulations governing the use of drones in Canada, including registration, certification, and operation requirements.
  • Local regulations: Depending on the country, state, or region in which a hotel or resort is located, there may be additional regulations governing the use of drones. For example, some areas may have restrictions on where drones can be flown or may require special permits for commercial drone operations.

Government Regulations for Accommodation

There are several U.S. government regulations that are directly applicable to the accommodation industry, including:

  • ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act): This law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in places of public accommodation, including hotels and resorts.
  • OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations: These regulations govern workplace safety and health and apply to hotels and resorts that employ workers.
  • FCC (Federal Communications Commission) regulations: These regulations govern the use of radio frequency devices in the United States, including Wi-Fi and other wireless devices used in hotels and resorts.

Canadian Government Regulations for Accommodation

There are several Canadian government regulations that are directly applicable to the accommodation industry, including:

  • Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA): This law requires businesses in Ontario, including hotels and resorts, to comply with accessibility standards that ensure individuals with disabilities can access and use their facilities.
  • Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) regulations: These regulations govern workplace safety and health and apply to hotels and resorts that employ workers.
  • Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regulations: These regulations govern telecommunications, including Wi-Fi and other wireless devices used in hotels and resorts.

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)

Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)

FCC (Federal Communications Commission)

Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S)

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)

EPC (Electronic Product Code)

Unique Device Identification

IATA (International Air Transport Association)

GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)

FAA (Federal Aviation Administration)

EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)

GAO Software Provides Easy Integration with API

GAO’s RFID and BLE software offers a free trial for both the server-based and cloud versions, and offers an API to the important systems in the accommodation industry such as:

  • Personnel management: GAO’s RFID can be used to track employees’ movements and activities, monitor their work hours, and ensure they are working in safe conditions. BLE beacons can be used to track employees’ locations in real-time, which can be especially useful in emergency situations.
  • Equipment management: GAO’s RFID can be used to track and manage equipment, such as housekeeping carts, kitchen equipment, and maintenance tools. BLE beacons can be used to track the location of equipment in real-time and monitor their condition, which can help reduce loss and damage.
  • Access control: Our RFID and BLE can be used to control access to guest rooms, staff areas, and other restricted areas. By using RFID or BLE-enabled keycards, hotels can track who has accessed certain areas and when, which can improve security and reduce the risk of theft.
  • Warehouse management: Our RFID can be used to track inventory levels and monitor the movement of goods in and out of the hotel’s warehouse. By using RFID-enabled inventory management systems, hotels can reduce the risk of overstocking or stock shortages and improve the efficiency of their warehouse operations.
  • Supply chain management: GAO’s IoT sensors can be used to monitor the temperature and humidity of food and beverage supplies during transportation and storage, which can help ensure that they are safe for consumption. This can be especially important for hotels that have their own restaurants and bars.
  • Other applications: Drones can be used for tasks such as inspecting the hotel’s roof and exterior, monitoring the property for security breaches, and delivering items such as room service orders. IoT sensors can be used to monitor energy usage and water consumption, which can help hotels reduce their environmental footprint and save on utility costs.

GAO has integrated its RFID, BLE, IoT and drone systems with some of the leading software and cloud services in the accommodation industry. Below are some of the popular software and cloud services in the accommodation industry.

  • Oracle Hospitality: Oracle Hospitality offers a range of software solutions for the accommodation industry, including personnel management and equipment management.
  • Amadeus: Amadeus offers a cloud-based property management system that includes features such as personnel management, inventory management, and housekeeping management.
  • HotSOS: HotSOS (Hotel Service Optimization System) is a cloud-based software platform that helps hotels manage their equipment and facilities.
  • SAP SuccessFactors: SAP SuccessFactors is a cloud-based HR management software platform that includes features such as personnel management, recruitment, and performance management.
  • Zenefits: Zenefits is a cloud-based HR management software platform that includes features such as personnel management, benefits administration, and time tracking.
  • Flexkeeping: Flexkeeping is designed to help hotels streamline housekeeping operations and improve guest satisfaction.
  • SAP Extended Warehouse Management: SAP Extended Warehouse Management is a software platform that can be used for warehouse management in the accommodation industry.
  • JDA Warehouse Management: JDA Warehouse Management is a software platform that can be used for warehouse management in the accommodation industry.
  • Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI): OCI offers a range of cloud-based services for access control, warehouse management, and supply chain management.
  • IBM Cloud: IBM Cloud offers a variety of cloud-based services for access control, warehouse management, and supply chain management.
  • Upkeep: Upkeep is a cloud-based maintenance management software platform that can be used for equipment management in the accommodation industry.
  • Sabre Hospitality Solutions: Sabre Hospitality Solutions offers software solutions for the accommodation industry, including property management.

Oracle Hospitality

Amadeus

HOTSOS

SAP Success Factors

Zenefits

Flexkeeping

SAP Extended Warehouse Management

JDA Warehouse Management

Oracle Cloud Infrastructure

IBM Cloud

Upkeep

Sabre

GAO has worked with some of the leading technology companies in the accommodation to provide integrated RFID, BLE, IoT and drone solutions to customers. Here are some of the technology leaders in the accommodation industry.

  • TravelClick: TravelClick provides cloud-based solutions for accommodation businesses, including reservations, marketing, and business intelligence.
  • Infor Hospitality: Infor Hospitality offers software solutions for accommodation businesses, including property management, point-of-sale, and revenue management.
  • Agilysys: Agilysys provides software solutions for the hospitality industry, including property management, point-of-sale, and inventory management.
  • Honeywell: Honeywell offers a range of electronic technology solutions for accommodation businesses, including security systems, energy management, and building automation.
  • Johnson Controls: Johnson Controls provides electronic technology solutions for the hospitality industry, including HVAC systems, fire detection, and building management.
  • Siemens: Siemens provides electronic technology solutions for the accommodation industry, including building automation, energy management, and security systems.
  • HP: HP offers hardware and software solutions for the accommodation industry, including point-of-sale systems, printing solutions, and security tools.
  • Dell Technologies: Dell Technologies provides system technology solutions for the hospitality industry, including servers, storage, and networking equipment.
  • Intel: Intel offers hardware and software solutions for the accommodation industry, including processors, embedded systems, and security tools.
  • Lenovo: Lenovo provides system technology solutions for the hospitality industry, including hardware and software for point-of-sale systems, digital signage, and guest services.
  • Guestline: Guestline offers cloud-based solutions for accommodation businesses, including property management, distribution, and guest engagement.
  • Nomadix: Nomadix offers internet access and bandwidth management solutions for the accommodation industry, including hotels, resorts, and conference centers.

Travel Click

Infor Hospitality

Agilysys

Honey Well

Johnson Controls

Siemens

HP

Dell Technologies

Intel

Lenovo

Guest Line

Nomadix

Case Studies of RFID Applications

Below are some RFID application cases in the accommodation industry:

  • Keyless Entry Systems: Some hotels have implemented RFID-based keyless entry systems that allow guests to access their rooms using RFID-enabled key cards or mobile devices. For example, Starwood Hotels introduced the SPG Keyless system, which utilized RFID technology to enable guests to unlock their hotel rooms using their smartphones.
  • Inventory Management: RFID can be used for efficient inventory management in hotels and resorts. By tagging items such as linens, towels, and equipment with RFID tags, hotels can track their inventory in real-time, streamline restocking processes, and prevent theft or loss.
  • Access Control and Security: RFID access control systems are widely used in the accommodation industry to enhance security. These systems allow authorized personnel to access restricted areas by using RFID-enabled access cards or badges. It helps ensure only authorized individuals can enter specific locations, such as staff-only areas, server rooms, or restricted floors.
  • UHF RFID for Laundry Tracking: UHF RFID tags can be applied to textile items used in accommodations, such as linens, towels, and uniforms. This enables efficient laundry management by automating sorting, tracking, and inventory control, reducing labor costs, and improving productivity.
  • UHF RFID for Guest Experience: UHF RFID technology can be used to enhance the guest experience in accommodations. For example, some hotels have implemented UHF RFID wristbands or cards that serve as all-in-one solutions for guest identification, access control, and cashless payments within the hotel premises.

Many applications of RFID by GAO can be found here.

GAO RFID Systems & Hardware for the Accommodation

GAO RFID Inc. offers the largest selection of BLE gateways, BLE beacons, RFID readers, tags, antenna, printers, and integrated RFID systems for various industries, including accommodation.

BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy)

GAO offers advanced BLE gateways:

as well as versatile beacons with such important functions as temperature, humility, vibration, and panic button:

GAO’s BLE technology is suitable for many industries, including accommodation.

UHF (Ultra High Frequency) RFID

GAO offers the largest selection of UHF RFID readers for various industries, including the accommodation:

GAO RFID offers the widest choice of UHF RFID tags, labels, badges, wristbands for various industries, including the accommodation:

and an array of antennas to address different applications:

HF (High Frequency), NFC (Near Field Communications) and LF (Low Frequency) RFID

GAO offers the largest selection of HF, NFC, and LF RFID readers for various industries, including the accommodation:

HF, NFC and LF RFID tags, labels, badges, wristbands for various industries, including the accommodation:

and antennas:

GAO also offers RFID printers:

Digital I/O adapters:

and relay controllers:

For embedded applications, GAO offers UHF, HF and LF RFID reader modules:

The RFID systems by GAO are highly popular for clients in the accommodation industry:

People or workers tracking system:

Assets that can be effectively tracked using GAO’s technologies

Hotels and Resorts:

  • Room safes: Secure storage for guests’ valuables.
  • Minibar or mini refrigerator: Stocked with drinks and snacks.
  • Coffee maker or kettle: For in-room hot beverage preparation.
  • Iron and ironing board: For guest use to remove wrinkles from clothing.
  • Hairdryer: Typically found in the bathroom for guest use.
  • Bathrobe and slippers: Complimentary items for guests’ comfort.
  • Work desk: Equipped with a chair, lamp, and power outlets for business travelers.
  • Flat-screen TV: Provides in-room entertainment with cable or satellite channels.
  • Electronic key card: Used for access to guest rooms and common areas.
  • Wi-Fi: Internet connectivity throughout the property.

Bed and Breakfasts:

  • Shared kitchenette: Equipped with basic cooking facilities for guest use.
  • Common area with board games/books: Provide entertainment options for guests.
  • Outdoor seating or patio: Additional space for relaxation and socializing.
  • Private bathrooms: Some B&Bs offer en-suite bathrooms in each guest room.

Vacation Rentals:

  • Fully equipped kitchen: Includes appliances, cookware, and utensils.
  • Washer and dryer: Allows guests to do laundry during their stay.
  • BBQ grill: Found in outdoor spaces for guests to enjoy outdoor cooking.
  • Swimming pool or hot tub: Additional amenities for relaxation and recreation.

Hostels:

  • Lockers: Secure storage for personal belongings.
  • Shared kitchen: Equipped for guests to cook their own meals.
  • Dormitory-style beds: Shared sleeping areas with individual or bunk beds.
  • Common room: Social space with seating, TV, and games.

Camping Sites:

  • Tent and sleeping bags: Provided for guests who don’t have their own camping gear.
  • Campfire pit: Designated areas for campfires and cooking.
  • Picnic table: Outdoor seating and dining option.
  • Shared bathrooms: Usually in the form of communal washrooms or shower facilities.

People or workers tracking system

Personnel or people access control system

Parking or vehicle control system

GAO Has Served the Accommodation Extensively

GAO’s products and technologies have helped its customers in the accommodation Industry to achieve success in, contactless technology, personalization, sustainability, artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, mobile check-in and check-out, voice-activated devices, health and wellness, smart rooms and automation, hybrid work and travel.

GAO RFID Inc. has deployed RFID, BLE and IoT projects for many companies in the accommodation, including many in its various divisions such as

  • Hotels: These are typically larger establishments that offer a wide range of amenities and services, such as restaurants, bars, conference rooms, and fitness centers. Hotels are usually classified by the level of luxury or service they offer, such as budget, mid-range, or luxury hotels.
  • Motels: Motels are typically smaller establishments that offer basic accommodation, often located near highways or other major travel routes. They typically cater to travelers who are looking for a simple, affordable place to sleep for a night or two.
  • Resorts: Resorts are typically larger, destination-oriented properties that offer a wide range of amenities and activities, such as golf courses, spas, and water parks. They are often located in scenic or exotic locations and are designed to provide a complete vacation experience.
  • Bed and Breakfasts: These are typically smaller properties that offer overnight accommodation and breakfast, often in a more home-like setting. They are often located in historic or picturesque locations and cater to travelers who are looking for a more personalized experience.
  • Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals include properties such as apartments, condos, and vacation homes that are rented out to travelers for short-term stays. They are often located in popular tourist destinations and can provide a more affordable and flexible alternative to traditional hotel accommodations.
  • Hostels: Hostels are typically budget-friendly accommodations that offer shared dormitory-style rooms, often catering to backpackers or other budget-conscious travelers. They may also offer private rooms or apartments for families or groups.
  • Campgrounds: Campgrounds provide outdoor accommodation for travelers who enjoy camping and outdoor activities. They can include tent sites, RV sites, and cabins, and often offer amenities such as campfire pits, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

Here are some of the leading companies in the accommodation industry:

Marriott

Hilton

Intercontinental Hotels Group

Wyndham

Choice Hotels

Best Western

Hyatt

Accor

Stay America

Red Lion Hotel

Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group

Drury Hotels

6 Motel

La Quinta

White Lodging

Red Roof

Star Wood

Holiday Inn

Shangri-la

Ritz- Carlton

Travel Lodge

Coast Hotels

Delta Hotels

Four Seasons