You Lost a Key Again, Didn’t You?
Ever locked yourself out, or someone misplaced a key at the hotel? I’ve been there. That’s why I started looking into smart lock. They promise fewer headaches, but there are a few things you should know before jumping in.
1. How You Plan to Manage Access
A smart lock is only as good as the system around it. Ask yourself:
- Who needs access?
- Will you use keycards, mobile apps, or PINs?
- How will staff, cleaning crews, and guests all get in smoothly?
For example, I helped a small resort in Cebu switch to keycard locks. The front desk staff can now assign temporary access to housekeeping through their system without physically handing out keys. It cut down on calls from guests and lost keys immediately.
If your property already uses a hotel management system like Kloud Hotels, check if the lock system integrates. Integration matters, it makes managing rooms, staff, and guest access way easier. You can also read this case study to see how Odoo Hotel Software and Orbita Integration is transforming smart hotels in the Philippines for better guest and staff management.
2. Your Network and Power Setup
Smart locks run on electricity or batteries, and many need Wi-Fi or LAN connections to sync with management systems. Before installation, check:
- Do you have reliable internet where the lock will be?
- Can you handle battery replacements or wiring for hardwired locks?
A friend tried installing smart locks in a resort lobby without proper internet coverage. Half the time, the locks wouldn’t register access correctly, causing staff delays. Don’t skip this step.
You can also pair locks with broader software like Odoo ERP if you want logs of who entered which room, when. This gives you a single dashboard for everything—guest management, housekeeping, and security checks.
3. Choose the Right Lock Type for Your Property
Not all smart locks are the same. Options include:
- RFID Keycards – cheap and common in hotels
- PIN/Code Entry – good for boutique hotels or small rooms
- Biometric – fingerprint or facial recognition, more secure but costly
- Mobile App Unlock – convenient for guests with smartphones
Think about your guests and your staff workflow. At one Cebu resort, they replaced old locks with RFID keycards. They still offered mobile unlock for VIP guests, balancing convenience and cost.
Other considerations:
- Weatherproofing for beachfront properties
- Backup access in case of power failure
- Integration with alarms, fire systems, or CCTV
Practical Tip You Can Do Today
Walk through your property and note:
- Which doors need smart access?
- Who will manage it?
- What kind of internet or power backup exists?
This little audit will save you time and money. Once you know this, choosing the right lockset and software integration becomes straightforward.
FAQ
Q1: Can smart locks integrate with hotel management systems?
A: Yes. Most modern smart locks can sync with PMS platforms like Kloud Hotels or Odoo ERP. This makes guest and staff access much easier to track.
Q2: Are smart electronic doorlocks secure?
A: Yes. They offer keyless entry, audit logs, encryption, and temporary access controls. Always choose a supplier with a good track record in hospitality properties.
Q3: How much does it cost to install smart locks?
A: Prices vary depending on lock type, number of rooms, and software integration. For a mid-size resort in Cebu, expect to budget for hardware, installation, and setup with PMS integration.
Get in Touch with Above Infranet Solutions Inc
Investing in the right communication and infrastructure solutions can transform your business operations. Contact our team today to discuss your requirements and explore how we can support your property.
100 Pres. Quezon St., Villa Aurora, Kasambagan, Cebu City, Philippines
Explore our solutions:
- IP PABX Systems
- Structured Cabling
- GPON Infrastructure
- Data & Wireless Networks
- Network Security Solutions
- Electronic Door Locksets
Contact us today to discuss your communication and infrastructure requirements and take your hotel or resort in Cebu to the next level.
