Skift Take

25 Moments that Mattered in 2015: To make our selection of 25 moments, we thought back to the stories that drove reader engagement and sparked discussion among both travel experts and the general public. Some stories were quick blips that represented bigger things while others were narratives that built slowly through out the year. Each one, though, spoke to where we are right now when it comes to the big business of global travel.

The guest journey at hotels is increasingly becoming a digital one, as technological innovation is driving consumers to opt for convenience and look for more control over their stay.

Cue the keyless entry.

Starwood pioneered the concept in 2014 before introducing it as a feature at its Aloft, Element, and W Hotels. Other companies soon followed, embracing and implementing the new technology. Hilton started with its U.S. properties and is expecting to expand internationally by the end of 2016. Marriott also announced it would be testing keyless entry, as did Intercontinental Hotels.

Plastic key cards are not yet a thing the past. With the keyless revolution comes setbacks, like security concerns, high costs, and overall added value to the guest experience, because in the end, customers satisfaction is the ultimate key to success.

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Tags: 25 moments 2015, hilton, keyless entry, marriott, starwood

Photo credit: Keyless entry at an Aloft hotel. Starwood Hotels & Resorts

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