// FEATURE //

STRATTON HOUSE WAS LOOKING FOR DEVICES AT AN EFFECTIVE PRICE POINT THAT WOULD BE EASY TO USE AND COULD SEAMLESSLY CONNECT GUESTS AND EMPLOYEES ACROSS VARIOUS AREAS OF THE HOTEL.

As analogue technology continues to decline, sourcing replacement parts and skilled engineers has become a challenge. For a hotel committed to high service standards, the risk of phones being out of order was not acceptable.

The management team faced two options: invest heavily in re-cabling the entire hotel to support a new analogue system or explore Voice-over- IP( VoIP) technology, which could run over the hotel’ s existing Wi-Fi network.

Seeking expert guidance

Stratton House has a longstanding relationship with Armstrong Bell, a telecommunications provider specialising in cloud telephony and business communication solutions. Having worked together on smaller projects in the past, the hotel turned to Armstrong Bell for advice on how to modernise its systems without breaking the bank.

William Copley, Founder and Managing Director at Armstrong Bell, explained:“ Hotel operators see telephony as an important amenity which contributes to how they are rated – but installation costs can often be a barrier. Stratton House was looking for devices at an effective price point that would be easy to use and could seamlessly connect guests and employees across various areas of the hotel. They also wanted to ensure that all guests had access to a telephone should there be a health emergency.”

After discussions, it became clear that VoIP offered the most practical and future-proof solution. Rather than digging up floors and walls to lay new cables, the hotel could deploy IP handsets that connect wirelessly to the existing Wi-Fi network.

The solution: A cloud-based PBX and smart handsets

Armstrong Bell proposed installing 50 of Snom’ s HD350W handsets linked to a cloudbased PBX platform. These handsets are designed specifically for hospitality settings, offering robust build quality, easy-to-use interfaces and a range of features to enhance both guest and staff experiences.

Key functions include:

• Speed dialling to connect directly with hotel services

• Hands-free calling and speakerphone capability

• Call hold and mute functions

• High-definition audio with noise reduction technology

The project was carefully phased to minimise disruption. The reception and spa areas were upgraded first, ensuring guest enquiries could be handled smoothly from the outset. Once the system was proven in these high-traffic areas, further phones were deployed across all guest bedrooms.

Because the handsets and PBX system were preconfigured, the switchover took less than a day. Training and support were provided to hotel staff to help them make the most of the new system.

Aidan Stevens, Owner of Stratton House Hotel, said:“ Time and cost were big factors in our decision to opt for a VoIP-based system. We didn’ t want any of our guests or staff members to face disruption. So, we were really pleased with how quickly Armstrong Bell were able to get our new system up and running.”

The benefits: Style, function and reliability

Look and feel

One of the considerations for the hotel was ensuring that new technology did not clash with the traditional interiors of its bedrooms. The Snom HD350W handsets offer a slim, stylish design that fits neatly within the décor without being intrusive. The large keypad and clear labelling make the phones easy for guests of all ages to use.

Guest functionality

With one-touch function keys, guests can now instantly reach the service they need whether it’ s reception, the restaurant or the spa. This reduces frustration and enhances the overall experience. For hotel staff, the ability to route

26 Intelligent SME. tech