Some SPG properties have this as well, but you use your phone as the key (I've had it at several Aloft properties). So you don't even need to stop in the lobby, the app will alert you when you've been assigned a room and you're all set. I stay at the Aloft in CLE quite a bit and I can't recall the last time I've even so much as spoken to an employee... which is nice. If I need something, they're there for me.

In June I ended up needed to stay near AMS for a quick night unexpectedly, ended up at the citizenM which is strictly kiosk-only... it was a great hotel for what I needed, and I spent an hour or two at the bar observing guests checking in. I think lacking any form of standard check-in desk/being too "tech-forward" is a bit counterproductive. They end up having two employees constantly hovering around the kiosks to assist guests, and I observed several older folks checking in that got visibly frustrated with the system, and the employee was clearly trained to "teach them" how to use it instead of just doing it... Personally, I think that's a mistake, some people find tech like this intimidating/frustrating to use and prefer traditional check-in service.

So, I agree, embracing technology and offering a kiosk for check-in is great, but don't over-do it. Offer guests a choice to check in at a kiosk (or on their phones) or the "old-fashioned" way at a traditional desk.

Another suggestion from something I saw at the IC in Chicago, text for service/assistance from the hotel. I use it quite a bit to request non-urgent things, letting them know when I leave, and special requests. Nothing like ordering a night-cap on your way back to the hotel from a business dinner and having it waiting for you in your room when you arrive... or better yet, a bottle of wine and a couple glasses (and turn-down service) if you're traveling with a date/SO (that made me look smooth as glass ).