Stricter rules around data protection
Since the introduction of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in 2018, hotels and other accommodations are required to handle their guests’ personal data with care. This means they must obtain explicit consent to process data and be transparent about their data practices. Hotels that fail to comply risk fines and reputational damage. 80% of hotel guests are concerned about how their personal data is processed. How do you make sure you comply with the legislation as well as gain trust?
Digitization as a solution
A real-life example of how digitization can contribute to both efficiency and AVG compliance is the partnership between Haya Hotels and Guestwave. Haya Hotels fully automated the check-in process with the Guestwave platform. This resulted in 86% of guests being able to check in online in advance. In addition, the use of automated identity verification led to a 97% decrease in incidents such as property damage and unwanted parties.
“Guestwave has helped us automate and verify the necessary things so we can focus on what matters most to us: providing unique guest experiences.” Roy van Beelen – Haya Hotels
Benefits of a digital check-in system
Digitizing the check-in process offers several advantages:
- Faster check-in: Guests can check in online in advance, reducing wait times at the front desk.
- Better data protection: An AVG-compliant system ensures that personal data is processed securely and used only for legitimate purposes.
- More focus on hospitality: Because employees spend less time on administration, they can better focus on service and personal attention to guests.
Outdated PMS systems
Existing and often less sophisticated and/or outdated PMS systems do not offer the same assurances that a modern eco system like GuestWave automatically does capture. Consider:
- Automated identity verification → PMS systems often only store a copy of an ID without verifying that the document is genuine and that the person is actually the owner. This increases the risk of fraud.
- eKYC process for compliance → Many PMS systems lack the technology to actively combat identity fraud and therefore do not fully comply with increasingly stringent EU legislation. Guestwave does through active verification in the check-in flow.
- Dynamic and up-to-date data management → In many PMSs, an ID statement remains static and is not updated. Guestwave ensures that guest data remains current and secure and that business owners are always compliant.
- Automatic AVG-compliant deletion → Many systems leave it up to the business owner to manage data, while Guestwave ensures automatic and secure deletion of data when required by law.
Conclusion
Complying with the AVG is not only a legal obligation, but also a way to strengthen guest trust. Digitization helps hotels and resorts not only stay compliant, but also work more efficiently and increase guest satisfaction.
Opinion
As a hotel or resort, invest in a secure and AVG-proof digital check-in system. This ensures a smooth, guest-friendly experience while protecting guest privacy. Technologies such as Guestwave demonstrate that automation and data protection can go hand in hand, enhancing both the guest experience and business operations.
