In today’s challenging hospitality landscape, balancing operational efficiency with guest satisfaction while driving revenue can feel like a constant uphill battle. We understand the pressures hoteliers face, especially when it comes to creating personalized guest experiences without stretching resources. That’s why we’ve introduced a new way to tap into revenue opportunities: Hybrid Attribute-Based Selling (HABS), now integrated into the online check-in process. This feature gives guests more choice and flexibility while empowering hoteliers to boost incremental revenue through tailored upsell opportunities.
What is Hybrid Attribute-Based Selling (HABS)?
Hybrid Attribute-Based Selling (HABS) combines the traditional room-based booking model with the flexibility of Attribute-Based Selling (ABS), enabling guests to choose specific room features during the online check-in process. While ABS has become increasingly popular in the hospitality industry for its ability to personalize stays, implementing it often requires a significant overhaul of inventory and booking systems.
To address this, we developed HABS—a hybrid approach that preserves the simplicity of room categories while introducing attribute-based options. This makes Hybrid Attribute-Based Selling far easier to implement within existing structures while still delivering the benefits of guest personalization and incremental revenue growth.
Similar to how airlines let passengers pay extra for preferred seats, hotels can now offer guests the ability to select room attributes, such as:
- Views (e.g., oceanfront, cityscape)
- Location preferences (e.g., higher floors, proximity to elevators)
- Amenities (e.g., balcony, bathtub)
These selections come with customizable pricing—whether as a one-time fee, daily rate, or complimentary option—ensuring that both guests and hotels benefit from this tailored approach.
For instance, if a guest has booked a standard room, they can enhance their stay by adding a balcony or securing a room with a preferred view during their online check-in. Alternatively, they may decide to upgrade to a deluxe room type and then further customize it with selected attributes. This flexibility puts guests in control of their experience while providing hoteliers with a straightforward way to boost revenue.
By blending the traditional and attribute-based approaches, Hybrid Attribute-Based Selling allows hotels to offer personalization without disrupting current systems, making it a practical solution for modern hoteliers.
A Versatile Upsell Tool: Room and Attribute Customization
The first point of contact with HABS is through its upsell functionality in the online check-in process. Hoteliers have the flexibility to choose how to implement this tool based on their property’s needs. You can start with room type upgrades, introduce attribute-based upselling, or use both features together to maximize opportunities. If you prefer to implement one feature first, you can always expand to include the other later—making HABS a scalable solution tailored to your goals.
- Room Type Upgrades: Encourage guests to move from a standard room to a deluxe suite with special pricing incentives.
- Attribute-Based Upselling: Guests can refine their stay by adding preferred features, such as specific views or premium amenities.
This two-tiered structure ensures that you can align Hybrid Attribute-Based Selling with your operational priorities while providing guests with intuitive, personalized options. Whether you opt to implement one feature or both, the system is designed to grow with your property and drive revenue at each step.
Key Benefits of HABS and Room Type/Attribute-Based Upsells
For Guests:
- Personalization: Guests gain greater control over their stay, aligning their preferences with their budget.
- Flexibility: Offers cater to both cost-conscious travelers and those seeking premium experiences.
- Convenience: Integrated customization within the check-in process makes upgrading simple.
For Hotels:
- Revenue Growth: Upselling attributes and room types directly impacts the bottom line at a critical guest touchpoint.
- Inventory Optimization: Real-time analysis ensures guests only see available options, streamlining room management.
- Guest Loyalty: Meaningful choices enhance the guest experience, fostering repeat business and positive reviews.
Key Features in the Online Check-In App
1. Real-Time Attribute Availability
The system dynamically analyzes room inventory to show guests only viable combinations. For example, if a high-floor room with a specific view is unavailable, the app will clearly communicate alternatives.
2. Customizable Pricing Models
Hotels can tailor pricing for each attribute to fit their revenue strategies:
- One-time fees for premium features.
- Daily rates for ongoing amenities.
- Complimentary upgrades to enhance the guest experience.
3. Intuitive User Experience:
The streamlined design of the Online Check-In App ensures that both Rate Package Upgrades and attribute-based selections are easy to navigate, reducing friction and improving the overall guest journey.
Unlock the Full Potential of Hybrid Attribute-Based Selling Today
The online check-in upsell tool is live and ready to deliver immediate value, helping you boost revenue and offer personalized options to your guests. Currently, guests can choose between upgrading their room type and selecting attributes during the online check-in process. However, this is just the beginning—future updates will expand HABS beyond check-in, adding more opportunities for personalization and upselling at other touchpoints in the guest journey.
To refine and enhance this tool, we are currently working with a group of pilot hotels and are seeking additional properties to join the program. Participating as a pilot property gives you a unique opportunity to help shape the future of Hybrid Attribute-Based Selling while gaining early access to its evolving capabilities. If you’re interested in volunteering as a pilot property, we’d love to hear from you—contact us today to learn more!
