Simplifying your hotel tech stack

Running a hotel means juggling countless moving parts—reservations, marketing, branding, guest communication, or staff scheduling. Technology can help with these tasks, but only if it’s integrated in a way that works.

Hotel technology systems can become a network of separate tools that create more problems than they solve. A well-designed and streamlined tech stack can help hoteliers cut costs, save time, reduce headaches, and improve the guest experience.

Here’s how you can streamline operations at your hotel by simplifying your tech stack (a term that refers to a collection of applications used to build and run a website or application), starting with the right Property Management System (PMS):

Centralize operations with a PMS

A reliable PMS should be the beating heart of your hotel’s technology ecosystem. The right PMS centralizes key functions and administrative tasks such as:

• Rate and inventory management
• Reporting
• Payment processing
• Guest communication
• Data Analytics

Hoteliers are busy enough running and managing properties. The last thing you need to have reservations accessed through one application, but have your payment portal on yet another platform.

Having everything in one place minimizes the need for additional software, and will reduce the time spent switching between different systems. What’s more, you only have to learn how to use one software. Who has time for homework, anyway?

Integrate essential systems

No matter how robust the PMS, there will almost always be additional tools you’ll need to effectively manage your hotel, like accounting software, marketing platforms, OTAs, and channel managers.

Look for a PMS that integrates instead of complicates your tech stack. The last thing you want is to invest in software that doesn’t play well with others. Try to work with vendors that value open APIs (application programming interfaces) and seamless integration.

This means that as your tech stack inevitably evolves, you can adapt without needing a complete overhaul.

Go on the cloud

Gone are the days of clunky onsite servers and tedious software installations. All you need is Wi-Fi and a smartphone or laptop. A cloud-based PMS offers the security, convenience, and flexibility that every hotel needs.

Cloud-based means that you can manage your hotel from anywhere. Innkeepers no longer need to be chained to the front desk. Work remotely or manage multiple properties.

Prioritize guest profiles

Guests are what drive the hospitality industry, and the most important (and most difficult) challenge is managing guest data. It is used and acquired across multiple platforms. A PMS that offers centralized guest profiles helps solve this issue by keeping everything in one place.

Booking history? Check.

Communication preferences? Double check!

This not only makes administrative tasks easier, but also enables you to personalize guest experiences with upsells, promotions, and special offers.

Why simplifying your tech stack matters

A simplified tech stack isn’t just about making your life easier (though it is a perk). It directly impacts your bottom line and guest engagement:

• Reduced costs: Fewer tools mean fewer subscription fees and maintenance costs.
• Efficiency: Less time is wasted trying to navigate multiple systems, and more time is spent on delivering a fantastic guest experience.
• Data Analytics: Centralized data means access to more comprehensive and relevant reports. Make smarter decisions based on a complete understanding of your hotel’s performance.
• Better Guest Experience: Streamlined hotel operations mean smoother check-ins/outs, personalized service, and faster guest communication.

ThinkReservations understands the unique challenges that independent hotels face. Our PMS and integrated solutions simplify your tech stack while working seamlessly with existing tools in the hospitality industry. Our focus is on creating a unified guest experience to help drive your hotel forward.

Simplifying your tech stack doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Request a demo to see how ThinkReservations can streamline your hotel operations and help grow your business.

Walk the talk - Mansion at Noble Lane

Monique Greenwood's journey with the Mansion at Noble Lane showcases how even self-proclaimed "low-tech" innkeepers can embrace technology to streamline operations and enhance guest experiences. Like many boutique hotel owners, Greenwood was initially hesitant to adopt new tech solutions. However, her experience demonstrates that with the right tools, even the most tech-averse property owners can transform their properties and compete with larger establishments. The Mansion at Noble Lane case study illustrates how simplifying your tech stack, as discussed in the article, can benefit properties of all sizes and technological backgrounds.