First of all, I think when you compare Novotel with other hotels under the chain or other hotels elsewhere, it will definitely pale in comparison. But when you check out the alternatives, I think you'll find that Novotel is one of the most decent hotels in Casablanca. For a four-star hotel, it's quite lacking in terms of efficient and excellent service and usable amenities.
Rooms quite clean and modern. My wife who's quite picky with beds actually liked the comfortable bed and pillows. Although my main concern is the air condition which they automatically set on heater mode during winter months --- and it can get quite warm so we had no choice but to open the windows which would have been okay if the hotel is far from the city. But since it's very near the old medina and the port ---- you can hear the street noise up until early morning.
We stayed for three nights and the location of the hotel is great. You can walk to the old medina and there are a lot of restaurants within walking distance. We also tried the restaurant downstairs, food was okay and service was okay ---- but nothing memorable.
I guess, there's really a gaping hole and opportunity for a hotelier to step in and introduce a really good 4 star hotel in Casablanca.