Zeitwohnhaus: 90% Digital Check-in Rate Thanks to a Perfect "Cogs-in-a-Wheel System"

Automated processes, personal hospitality: The perfect interaction between Straiv, Apaleo, and Schulte-Schlagbaum at Zeitwohnhaus.

What convinces our customers

"You always have a dedicated point of contact and solution-oriented people on the other end of the line - and it’s been that way for years. It’s a partnership that truly allows for stress-free work."

Gabi Herdegen.

Owner Zeitwohnhaus

The Challenge: Hardware Frustration and Analog Brakes

Before collaborating with Straiv, Zeitwohnhaus struggled with two worlds: Analog Digital Concierge were instantly outdated, and an attempt with in-room tablets failed due to high maintenance costs and technical wear and tear. Added to this was an inflexible PMS that did not allow for true integrations. The result: The staff was blocked by registration forms and payment processing - valuable time that was missing for actual guest contact.

Implementation of Solutions: The "Mobile First" Revolution

Today, Zeitwohnhaus relies on an extensive digital strategy where all systems interlock like clockwork:

  • The digital world in your pocket: Just minutes after booking, the guest enters the Digital Guest Journey via the Straiv link in the confirmation email. They are accompanied fully automatically from the first click to Check-out.

  • The heart of it all – Apaleo: As an open, cloud-native PMS, Apaleo forms the foundation. Data flows in real-time between Straiv and the locking system from Schulte-Schlagbaum. The system is completely wireless and battery-operated – a decisive advantage when integrating into existing building structures.

  • Autonomous travel & payment: Thanks to Apaleo Pay and the Straiv check-out, guests settle their bills digitally. Within minutes, the receipt is in their inbox – without waiting times, without touchpoints at the reception, if the guest so desires.

  • Hybrid service with Kiosk: The modern Check-in kiosk in front of the building serves as a safety net. It solves "edge case problems" for late arrivals and offers an intuitive, multilingual alternative directly on-site.

„What is incredibly positive: The three companies are always up-to-date and work with each other like cogs in a wheel. That makes it really easy for us as operators.“
Gabi Herdegen, Owner of Zeitwohnhaus

Results: "Previously Unthinkable"

The digital transformation has changed not only the processes but the entire atmosphere in the house:

  • Top rates: The digital Check-in rate is constantly between 70–90%. Among regular guests, it reaches nearly 100%.

  • Revenue boost through Upselling: Through automated impulses (e.g., "Fancy some breakfast?"), breakfast bookings increased by 20%. Significant additional revenue was also achieved for parking spaces.

  • From administrator to host: Since bureaucratic discussions about invoices and data are eliminated, the team now has conversations about the well-being of the guests.

  • Onboarding without sleepless nights: Despite initial concerns about a PMS change, the implementation was "playfully easy." The open architecture of Apaleo made connecting further partners child's play.

In the past, you talked about invoices and registration forms: Today, you exchange thoughts on how the stay was. That is a much nicer experience for both sides and a more pleasant way to work.
Holger Herdegen, Owner of Zeitwohnhaus

Conclusion

Zeitwohnhaus is a prime example of the 'Triple-Win' synergy between Straiv, Apaleo, and Schulte-Schlagbaum. By automating administrative tasks, they’ve achieved increased revenue, a more relaxed team, and superior guest satisfaction. For the Herdegen family, Straiv’s dedicated customer support completes the success story.

Interested in finding out more about our solutions?
Schedule your personal consultation now!

Type of accommodation

Suite Hotel & Serviced Apartments (Focus: Business & Long-term Stays)

Number of rooms

Over 100 rooms

Location

Erlangen, Germany

Website

https://www.zeitwohnhaus.de/en/

Tech Stack

Apaleo
Schulte-Schlagbaum
Apaleo Pay

About the Hotel

As a privately operated lifestyle apart-hotel, the Zeitwohnhaus combines the personal atmosphere of a family-run business with modern, urban design. The concept of “feeling at home while on the go” appeals equally to short-term city travelers and discerning business guests. With its central location in the heart of Erlangen, not far from Siemens and the university, it is the ideal retreat for guests seeking individuality, high-quality amenities, and a relaxed “open lobby” culture.

Straiv Solutions

Guest Journey, Check-in/out, Digital Concierge, Self-Service Kiosk, Guest Messaging & Upselling