What are the telltale signs that your hotel management software isn't working?

Hotel management software is used to streamline business operations such as managing multiple properties, maintaining customer contact, staff management etc. 

Many face troubles when selecting software and others while executing them. Several red flags begin to show up once you start using the new software. Often, they are ignored but what you may not realise is that they become a bigger problem.

 

What are the telltale signs that your hotel management software isn't working?

 

1. Customer Service

If there is anything the hospitality industry knows, it is the importance of customer service. While scouting for a management system, if you notice too many reviews about the customer service, keep in mind that something is going on with that aspect. 

Customer service is the most important factor when choosing the best CRM software because these executives will be solving any issues or queries you might have. You will reach out to these agents for customer support because you are opting for a vendor rather than building your own. 

If your problems are not solved immediately, your business will take a huge hit, and your hotels might end up earning a bad review. Even building your management system comes with its own set of problems. You will need specialised tech support who will be able to resolve your issues. If that person is not available, the business operations will be stopped for a minimal amount of time, in the best-case scenarios. 

Pay for better customer service rather than expensive software that might not be tailored for your business. Even hotel management CRMs can be customised as per the business's unique requirements. One fine example is Optimiser CRM that offers custom-built suites such as Sales, Marketing, Project management, Shops, and much more under an affordable subscription. 

If you are looking for new software, seek out those that offer 24/7 customer service, are responsive, and resolve issues swiftly. If you feel that your current provider's customer service is not up to the mark, do not hesitate to seek out other options. You know what is best for your business. 

 

2. Bad Interface 

Clicking through endless menus, scrolling through a list of buttons, and going through forms is what your teams are doing, then the software isn't simplifying your life. It is complicating it in the process as well. 

Rather than having a CRM with dashboard that will give you an overview of things and let you accomplish necessary tasks with a few clicks, you have to go through a long process to finish them. For starters, this will take too much time and irritate the customer if the booking is being done on the phone. 

A poor interface design will not allow simplification of day-to-day tasks. What you can do is bring it up with your vendor. If they are willing to make the necessary changes and make it easier for you to handle the system, great!

But if you observe little or no action, do not hesitate to look for the new hotel management system. There are many options available that will give you an idea of what is meant for your business and what isn't.

 

 

3. Integrations

Integrations are a must for every hotel management system. If your software offers third-party integrations, then you are losing profits. 

More than 90 per cent of hotels have stated that maximum bookings come from third-party websites such as trivago, Expedia, etc. While these websites may take a part of your profit, they provide exposure like no other. Even social media takes its time, and one never knows what might go viral and what may not. But with these websites, the customers are bound to interact with the hotel's website and keep it on their list. 

If you have never used integrations, you may not be able to grasp the disadvantages. But do give them a try, as these boost your bookings.

 

4. Software Bugs

Do not get charmed by the long list of features that companies offer for hotel management systems. Software companies often put it on the menu but are themselves figuring out the specifics of it. While these may look pretty on their websites, many of these features begin to glitch upon practical usage. They range from frozen screens to restarting the system, leading you to avoid using the features you are paying for. 

If you need tech support every other day for basic things that lead you to restart the system, you should consider new software. 

Optimiser CRM comes with a 30-day free trial for all those considering a new hotel management system. You can run the software with an expert guiding you through the process and decide. You have the opportunity to experience seamless data management and operations. Along with that, Optimiser's team will be aiding the onboarding process and supporting you throughout the implementation and after. 

 

5. Price

Expensive does not imply good. Software is defined as useful if it helps you run your business smoothly and efficiently, not by the basis of price. 

Hotel management systems come at all price ranges. Depending upon your operations, you can choose a price and list of features that you will require. 

If you are paying more than the system is worth, then it may be time to look for a new management system. 

 

Summary

The red flags of a hotel management system failing to perform well begin to appear right after implementation. If one does not pay enough attention, these issues become a bigger problem that will require time, effort and sometimes financial resources to resolve.