As the hospitality industry evolves, guest expectations are rapidly changing. In addition to comfortable rooms and quality service, today’s travellers are looking for personalised, on-demand entertainment that suits their lifestyle. Guests expect TVs to offer more than just traditional cable channels – they want access to streaming services and content tailored to their individual preferences.

The evolution of entertainment in hospitality

For many years, entertainment in the hospitality industry focused on a few standard options: in-room TVs with a limited selection of cable or satellite channels, pay-per-view movies, and perhaps a radio or CD player. These offerings were often one-size-fits-all, providing the same content for every guest, with little scope for personalisation.

While these options were once sufficient, they often failed to provide a truly engaging or memorable experience, especially for tech-savvy travellers accustomed to more interactive and diverse media options at home.

With the development of technology and higher guest expectations, the hospitality industry has begun to move away from traditional entertainment models. The rise of digital and streaming services has revolutionised the way content is delivered, offering guests a more personalised on-demand experience. Rather than being limited to scheduled programmes or a few movie options, guests can now access a huge library of content through various streaming platforms. Recognising this trend, many hotels and resorts have started to create their own OTT platforms. These customised platforms allow properties to offer exclusive content, local programmes, and even selected recommendations tailored to their guests’ preferences.

Implementing an OTT platform in hospitality

Successful implementation of an OTT platform in the hospitality industry requires a strategic approach. The first step is to ensure a robust and reliable internet infrastructure, as fast connectivity is essential for streaming services. Hotels may need to upgrade their networks to accommodate multiple guests streaming content simultaneously without disruption. Next, choosing the right OTT platform provider is key. Hotels should choose a platform that not only supports popular streaming services, but also allows for personalisation, enabling the hotel to offer exclusive content, local programmes and tailored recommendations. The platform should integrate seamlessly with existing in-room technology such as smart TVs and voice-controlled devices, providing a user-friendly interface that guests can easily navigate

Finally, hotels should focus on data security and privacy. Implementing stringent security measures to protect guest data is crucial, especially as OTT platforms collect and analyse viewing habits to enhance personalisation. Ensuring compliance with relevant data protection laws and communicating privacy policies to guests will help build trust and ensure a smooth implementation.

Impact of OTT on the hospitality industry

Enhancing guest experience

The introduction of OTT services in the hospitality industry has significantly enhanced the guest experience. Today’s travellers expect more than just a place to stay – they are looking for something like a home that mirrors or even surpasses what they enjoy in their daily lives. OTT platforms give guests the flexibility to watch their favourite shows or movies.

In addition, hotels with their own OTT platforms can communicate a variety of relevant information through the screen, such as check-out, spa and wellness services, billing, weather information, scheduled activities, or attractions near the hotel. Such platforms also give guests the opportunity to order additional items or find out about the menu at the restaurant.

Personalisation and on-demand content

One of the most attractive aspects of OTT in hospitality is its ability to deliver personalised content on demand. This includes delivering content in the preferred language, suggesting films based on previous viewing habits, or offering access to local attractions and events through customised streaming channels. It is not uncommon for guests to have access to live streaming of events taking place in or around the hotel.

Integration with in-room technology

The seamless integration of OTT services with in-room technology is another key factor behind their growing importance in the hospitality industry. Smart TVs, voice assistants, and other connected devices allow guests to easily access streamed content and control entertainment options with just a few commands. This integration goes beyond just viewing, as OTT platforms can also be connected to other hotel services – such as room service, concierge, and spa reservations – through the same interface. This convergence of entertainment and hotel services streamlines the guest experience, making it more convenient and user-friendly, as well as enhancing the overall appeal of the stay.

Benefits of implementing OTT in hospitality

Increased guest satisfaction

One of the most important benefits is the increase in guest satisfaction. By providing access to a wide range of on-demand content, including movies, TV shows, and even hotel programmes, hotels can provide a more enjoyable and tailored experience for their guests. Increased satisfaction levels often translate into positive reviews, repeat bookings, and strong word-of-mouth recommendations.

Revenue opportunities

Implementing OTT in the hotel industry can also open new revenue streams. Hotels can monetise their OTT platforms by offering premium content, pay-per-view events, or subscription-based access to exclusive channels. In addition, partnering with content providers for co-branded experiences or advertising opportunities can further increase revenue. By offering personalised recommendations or targeted promotions through the OTT interface, hotels can also generate additional revenue, such as upgrade bookings, meal reservations or spa services.

Data insights and personalisation

Implementing OTT platforms allows hotels to gather valuable data on guest preferences and behaviour. By analysing viewing habits and content selection, hotels can gain insight into what their guests like, allowing them to tailor services and offers more effectively. This data-driven approach can lead to even greater personalisation, improving the guest experience and giving the hotel a competitive advantage in understanding and meeting guests’ needs.

Conclusion

The integration of OTT platforms into the hospitality industry is redefining guest experience. As today’s travellers increasingly seek personalised, on-demand entertainment options, hotels that embrace OTT technology can elevate their services to meet these changing expectations. This shift allows hotels to go beyond traditional cable TV and general in-room entertainment offerings by providing guests with access to their favourite streaming services, customised content, and even exclusive programmes that align with their interests.

Offering seamless, high-tech entertainment can become a key selling point, attracting tech-savvy travellers who value the convenience and personalisation provided by OTT platforms.

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We can help you seamlessly integrate OTT technology into your hospitality offerings. Our white-label OTT is providing a perfect fit for hotels looking to deliver a personalised, high-tech entertainment experience. Contact us today to learn more about how our white-label OTT platform can transform your hospitality entertainment offerings.