Is there a way to build it off the TV. Like an interactive channel? Most hotels have customized channel guides and I don’t know what tech it is but that seems to be a possible route to avoid the tablet expense and it could be pitched as leveraging current assets (tv) which buyers would probably like more
Leveraging TVs in rooms is definitely an interesting idea, and I considered it many times, but decided against it in the end.
First of all, the product is more successful the more guests use it. Using a TV with a remote is not as good a user experience as using a tablet while you're lying in your bed. I'm hoping that allowing hotels to try the tablets for free for a few months while we're collecting ROI data will be able to convince them this is a good investment, but we'll see.
I'm also developing the client in React Native, and I will create an Apple TV version. I'm planning on first giving in-room tablets a try, and if it doesn't work maybe try to get in with TV apps first.
Thanks a lot for the thoughtful response, I appreciate it.
Good to hear you considered it already. However I’m afraid you may be putting too much emphasis on the UX. My case is singular but here’s why I feel that way.
I’ve stayed in a dozen or so hotels that have given me an iPad with apps for room service book spa appointments etc. Probably close to a month of time total.
I never look at. Ok I have twice. Because they said there was an app of local business (I quickly bounced and opened yelp on my device). Usually I toss it on my table or nightstand and never touch it. So, how do you change that behavior? The fact that I have my own devices is key. Mine is set up how I like it. Why would I use yours? I’m not casually using your device and then maybe stumble into the food app to order room service.
The tv however I use casually multiple times a day in a hotel. Usually around times that coincide with meal times, if I’m in room at all. I am always exposed to services like spa food etc. I just need a easy way to book at that moment. Picking up a foreign tablet to do so is a bad UX IMO.
Most guests are not tech oriented people. The advantage of a slick tablet UI isn’t going to win you much. Providing the right functionality at the right time in a half as good way will be more valuable.
Of course this is all conjecture and personal opinion but wanted to give my two cents. Good luck with the demo and I hope you get good feedback / roi
Sorry I missed this response, Hacker News doesn't send notifications as you know.
It's really interesting to hear your experiences with in-room tablets. I definitely agree that one of the biggest challenges is getting the guests to actually use the tablets. There are in-room tablet providers with user experiences not even close to what we have designed, and they claim to have a good amount of user interaction each day, but they might be lying or exaggerating. There is only one way to find out, but if it turns out that TV apps are more profitable than in-room tablets, that would actually be good for me.
Regarding your other point on allowing the guest to use his own device during stay, that is an important feature we are considering. I also agree that it is very important.
Thanks a lot again for all the input, I appreciate it!
