The challenge that many people share right now ...
Many hotels are currently facing the major challenge of finding a new property management system (PMS). This need for a change is often triggered by outdated systems or insufficient functions from the current provider. However, the market of system providers is huge and confusing. As a hotelier, keeping an overview and finding the right partner can quickly become overwhelming. So where do I start?
Functions and needs: What do I really need?
The market offers a wide range of functions, but which of them are really necessary and suitable for your own hotel? This question is often difficult to answer. Hotels are confronted with a plethora of offers that all promise different features and benefits. Challenges can quickly become overwhelming when it comes to finding out which of these functions actually improve operations and which are merely "nice-to-have".
anchor & alps as matchmaker
This is where we come into play. At anker & alpen, we see ourselves as a matchmaker between hotels and system providers. Our aim is to support hotels in finding the right partner - one that not only offers the necessary functions, but also fits the hotel culturally and operationally.
But how do we find the right provider for our customers?
Choosing a new system provider is a crucial step that needs to be carefully considered. Like dating, it's about finding the perfect partner who is not only a rational fit, but also an emotional one. Here are the key points we look at in our work with our hotel clients right from the start:
Know your own WHY 🔍
Before you start looking for a new system provider, it is important to know your WHY. Why do I need a change? What problems or shortcomings are there in the current system? This awareness is the first step towards a successful search. Here we bring as many stakeholders as possible to the table and highlight the different perspectives of the departments.
Determine status quo & goals 📈
It is crucial to analyze the current status and set clear goals. What are the pain points? What is not running smoothly? And above all: what do I want to achieve with a new system? This clarity helps you to find the right provider that suits your needs.
Set priorities: What do I want? What do I need? 🎯
When choosing a new system, you have to set priorities. Which functions are absolutely essential and which are nice-to-have? It is important to remain realistic and clearly define the requirements.
Stakeholders vs. own needs 🤝
A system change affects many stakeholders. It is important to consider the needs and opinions of all stakeholders, but also to ensure that your own needs are not neglected. The new partner should not only appeal to the management, but also meet the requirements of the employees.
Know your needs: stay realistic! 📋
Which functions are really necessary? Where do I have extremely high expectations? It's important to remain realistic and not just focus on cool features that may not even meet your requirements.
Who makes the decision? ❓
The decision for a new system provider should be well thought out and coordinated. Who is involved in the decision-making process and who ultimately makes the decision? A clear allocation of roles is essential here.
Hard facts: Running times, interfaces, costs 📊
How long will I be tied to the new provider? What additional costs could I incur? It is important to consider the terms, interfaces and costs transparently and to include all factors in the decision.
Last but not least: the chemistry! 💖
Despite all rational considerations, gut feeling also plays a major role. The chemistry between the hotel and the system provider must be right. A good provider understands the needs and objectives and works closely and trustingly with the hotel.
Conclusion
Many hotels face the challenge of keeping track of the market of system providers and finding the right partner for their specific needs. We at anker & alpen are here to help. We see ourselves as a matchmaker between hotels and system providers and provide support in finding the perfect digital soulmate.
When choosing a system provider, it's not just about the rational facts, but also about the emotional connection. The future of the hotel industry lies in the right combination of technology and humanity. With the right partner at its side, every hotel can achieve its goals and continue to develop.
