The hospitality industry has undergone a technological makeover in the last several years. The need for contactless, high-tech experiences is no longer just something to have, and these changes are disrupting an industry that has historically been high-touch. The on-premise property management systems (PMS) of years past are no longer meeting modern expectations for low-touch and highly personalized experiences that guests desire.
Many hoteliers are still managing multiple PMS across their portfolios and are using disparate systems for a variety of front-end and back-end operations. This means spending valuable budget and staff resources relaying and interpreting data to ensure accurate business operations. This also creates friction points for guests and adds unnecessary stress for management who are already busy staying on top of mitigating external challenges such as ongoing labor shortages and rising inflation. When staff are committed to giving guests seamless service each day, they should also be afforded the same conveniences. Cloud computing enables hoteliers to streamline their operations, freeing up more time to craft and deliver on their promises to guests and ensuring they return in the future.
The difference is in the cloud
With a cloud-based PMS, hoteliers can simplify operations at every level of their business. Having data and records in the cloud makes information easily accessible for all stakeholders, providing a full view of the business in real time.
Here are just a few benefits of moving to a cloud-based PMS:
- System longevity: A cloud-based PMS offers automatic upgrades and integration to the newest software features as soon as updates become available. This allows hoteliers to take advantage of the latest technological advancements following remote updates without a significant learning curve or the costly installation of a new, refreshed system.
- Ease of support: With on-premises technology, troubleshooting is more complex and there’s a need to consider potential issues with either the software or hardware components. This will often cause a disruption of critical services internally and with guests. Cloud solutions pave the way for a new level of confidence and convenience through remote support access, resulting in quicker resolution.
- Enhanced cybersecurity: A cloud-based PMS is more secure and protects data. With on-premises systems, data can be lost forever if there is damage to the on-site hardware via unforeseen circumstances. However, a cloud-based PMS can keep data more secure and accessible no matter the circumstances on property. Professionals can then focus more on daily operations, guest retention, and driving loyalty.
- Remote work: Communication between managers and staff can be better with a cloud-based PMS. It allows for centralized control and continuous updates to become a reality for professionals managing multiple properties or working remotely. Management can gain real-time access to all data and insights, which provides a new level of workplace flexibility.
- Open integrations: The hospitality industry is competitive and it’s crucial to offer guests the personalized experiences and convenience they seek to stay ahead of the competition. A cloud-based PMS with a library of open integrations provides hoteliers with solutions to meet travelers’ evolving expectations.
Benefits of cloud technology for guests and staff
In the past three years, hoteliers have struggled with staffing troubles, supply chain issues, and ongoing inflation. As such, hotels have focused on building loyalty and driving repeat visits more than ever before.
With heightened guest expectations—including low-touch, contactless, and personalized encounters—hotels have shifted away from traditional approaches to drive loyalty. Guests have come to count on services such as keyless room entry, self-service check-in, and contactless payment options that are no longer new in the eyes of guests but are instead expected.
To meet these expectations, hotel staff must have capable tools. Simple communication processes can go a long way for staff, and a cloud-based PMS can help enable staff to work from a mobile device anywhere on property, saving time and reducing monotonous tasks.
With the need to streamline operations and modernize staff and guest experiences, the future of the hospitality industry is in the cloud. Hoteliers that invest now will have a leg up on the competition when it comes to driving revenue, ensuring loyalty, and retaining skilled staff.
