How can you avoid common mistakes when selecting a PMS for your hotel?

2 Compare options

Once you have a list of potential PMS, you need to compare them based on various criteria, such as functionality, usability, scalability, security, support, and pricing. Don't rely on marketing claims or sales pitches alone; ask for demos, trials, and references to see how the PMS works in practice and how it can benefit your hotel. You can also use online reviews, forums, and industry publications to get feedback from other hoteliers who have used the PMS. By comparing options, you can find the best fit for your hotel and avoid regretting your choice later.

3 Plan your budget

Another common mistake that hoteliers make when selecting a PMS is not planning their budget properly. A PMS is not a one-time purchase; it is an ongoing investment that requires maintenance, upgrades, training, and support. Therefore, you need to consider the total cost of ownership (TCO) of the PMS, not just the initial price. The TCO includes factors such as hardware, software, installation, licensing, integration, customization, updates, support, and training. By planning your budget, you can avoid hidden fees, unexpected costs, and financial stress.

4 Prepare your staff

Selecting a PMS is not only a technical decision; it is also a human one. Your staff will be the ones who will use the PMS on a daily basis, so you need to prepare them for the change and ensure their buy-in and adoption. This means that you need to communicate with them about the benefits and challenges of the new PMS, involve them in the selection and implementation process, and provide them with adequate training and support. By preparing your staff, you can avoid resistance, confusion, and errors.

5 Monitor your results

Finally, after you have selected and implemented your PMS, you need to monitor your results and evaluate your performance. A PMS is not a static tool; it is a dynamic one that can help you improve your operations, guest experience, and revenue. Therefore, you need to track and measure key indicators, such as occupancy, ADR, RevPAR, guest satisfaction, online reputation, and staff productivity. You also need to solicit feedback from your staff and guests, and adjust your PMS settings and features accordingly. By monitoring your results, you can avoid complacency, inefficiency, and missed opportunities.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?