Home2Stay

App for short-term rentals

⬤ 01. Challenges

App flexible B&B management system with hourly rates

I developed an app for B&B management and booking, offering the option to pay by the hour instead of a full-day stay.
The challenge lay in creating a straightforward, intuitive reservation flow that allowed users to book only the amount of time they truly needed.
⬤ 02. Reflection

Reflecting on automated check-in/check-out and enhanced security

Collaborating with the client and Masamune’s development team, I examined potential challenges, highlighting the need to automate check-in/check-out processes,
transmit documents to the relevant authorities, and integrate an app-based door lock system. These aspects proved critical for delivering an efficient and secure B&B experience.
Inspiration
To refine the booking flow, I examined how companies like Booking and Airbnb handled reservations. Additionally, I focused on car sharing apps such as Enjoy and ShareNow, which used hourly booking systems. This approach allowed me to gain deeper insights into the challenges and pitfalls of time-based bookings, guiding my design decisions accordingly.
⬤ 03. Ideation

Flow definition and automation mechanisms

I developed a low-fidelity flow to demonstrate how the app should function and to ensure alignment with the functional requirements defined alongside the client.
Additionally, I explored possible automation solutions, enabling seamless communication with the back office and reducing manual interventions through automated processes.

⬤ 04. Experience

Automations and integrations for efficient B&B management

I worked with the client to identify the main challenges to overcome. To build an automated solution, we focused on three core areas:
implementing a smart lock for each B&B, transmitting documents to the proper authorities in compliance with Italian regulations, and establishing a reliable user identification process.
KYC light
I recommended a KYC-based identity verification system to securely authenticate users, thereby enhancing the application’s security and streamlining the submission of documents to authorities. This approach helps minimize the risk of sending incorrect or mismatched documentation. In the future, the client plans to develop a proprietary solution to avoid additional third-party costs.
Data Transmission to Authorities
One of the main challenges involved ensuring an automated process for sending guest documents to the local authorities. This was achieved by leveraging the same platform used for KYC, which automatically forwards the relevant documentation. As a result, verification is performed by a certified KYC system, and transmission occurs instantly as soon as the stay begins.
Smart Lock

To automate the door lock and unlock processes in client-owned or managed B&Bs, I planned the installation of smart locks equipped with open APIs, streamlining system programming and facilitating software-hardware integration. I chose an Austrian manufacturer renowned for its highly secure devices with built-in APIs.

The system allows guests to stay as long as they wish, displaying both elapsed time and the associated fee. When guests are ready to end their stay, they tap an “end” button, prompting an animation that instructs them to vacate the property. The app, using GPS, detects when the guest leaves the premises and finalizes the process.

For enhanced security, I recommended perimeter sensors to detect any presence inside the property. Additionally, if a guest’s smartphone becomes unavailable or the system malfunctions, an emergency phone support line is in place. The manager can then connect remotely and perform all necessary operations on the guest’s behalf.

Work with me

giuseppebussolari@gmail.com
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