NO MORE HIGH MAINTENANCE COSTS AND DATA BREACHES. 6 BENEFITS OF CLOUD-BASED PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS.

Today’s cloud-based property management systems (PMS) provide all the functionalities your hotel chain needs to operate successfully. Instead of installing the software onto your own servers and spending money and time on maintaining it yourself, the Software as a service (SaaS) model gives users a much cheaper and more practical solution. With SaaS, all software and applications run in the cloud. Users pay on a subscription basis depending on their usage, storage, and number of licenses. This eliminates any concerns about specific hardware purchases and high customization consulting fees.


A hotel room


Evolution of Cloud-Based Technology
Cloud-based solutions do not satisfy the needs of only small and medium-sized businesses as when they were firstly introduced to the market. With the latest developments, expanded functionalities and customization options, SaaS has become a go-to model for larger businesses as well, including those in the hospitality industry. Why is that cloud-based systems are replacing the traditional on-premises model at such lightning speed? We list some of the main benefits of migrating to the cloud and how it can help your hotel chain bloom.

6 Benefits of a Cloud-Based PMS:
1. Enhanced Data Security:

With hotel data breaches on the rise, the shift to a cloud-based PMS offers enhanced security. In a traditional on-premises PMS, the responsibility of safeguarding sensitive guest information such as passport details, home address, credit card information, medical history, rests on the hotel. This makes hotels and resorts a typical target of cyberattacks.
However, transitioning to a cloud-based PMS shifts this responsibility to the cloud hosting provider. Platforms like Microsoft Azure provide industry-leading security features: automated threat detection, data encryption, identity isolation and more. Furthermore, all your data is automatically backed up and stored in the cloud, so you don’t have to worry about losing valuable data.

2. Continuous Software Updates and Support:
Cloud-based PMS ensures users always have access to the latest software versions and features. Security patches are applied immediately and are included in your subscription price. This eliminates the need for costly and time-consuming upgrade projects, associated with on-premises software. Your software provider is responsible for maintaining the system and delivering all the functionalities you need to operate your business effectively. Thus, if there is a specific function the PMS lacks, it can be added at your request. The automatic software updates feature helps to increase performance and stay up to date with the latest industry trends.

3. Scalability:
Cloud-based PMS allows you to scale your hotel business’ IT resources according to your needs as you do not want to pay for more than you need to: a huge benefit which an on-premises PMS lack. Whether expanding or downsizing, the flexibility to adjust resource consumption is crucial for ensuring optimal efficiency and cost savings. Scale up resources to easily handles peak workloads and scale down during quieter times to save on cloud costs.
A scalable cloud-based management system helps you monitor your PMS performance through key performance indicators (KPIs). By closely monitoring your PMS performance in terms of the company's total revenue, market share, net profit, customer satisfaction and staff productivity, you are in full control of your business and can make swift data-driven decisions every step of the way.

4. Cost-Effective and Efficient IT Management:
SaaS operates on a subscription basis, eliminating the need for large upfront investments in software, consultation, customizations, and support. In other words, you pay for what you need. This predictable cost structure benefits smaller hotels by providing access to high-performance technology, while larger businesses can quickly adapt their operations without extensive infrastructure purchases or having to hire more experienced IT staff. Additionally, cloud-based PMS is notably faster to deploy than on-premises systems.

5. Accessibility and Flexibility:
What makes a cloud-based PMS stand out as a better solution than an on-premises system is the 24/7 accessibility and flexibility. The software allows users to access their data from anywhere in the world, no matter if they have internet connection or not. You can use your mobile phone or any other kind of device to manage all operations across your hotel chain in real-time. Work remotely with a cloud PMS and get the same 360-degree visibility just as when you work in front of the computer at the office.

6. Real-time Reporting and Analytics:
The feature of real-time analytics is crucial for hoteliers to understand their customer behaviour to improve the services they offer.  The data analysis feature of a cloud-based PMS makes it possible to keep track of each guest’s preferences, thus provide them exactly what they like and want.  A cloud-based software allows users to access reports in real-time, track revenue and identify trends which will help them satisfy their customers’ needs and adjust to the market changes. In addition, real-time reporting assists in making informed and data-driven decisions that will make your hotel stand out from the competition.

A man multitasking with a tablet and laptop, efficiently managing his work and digital tasks

Are you ready to embrace the cloud?
The increasing number of companies trusting the cloud and the wide array of success stories have proven that switching to the SaaS model leads to enhanced operational efficiency, reduced cost, stronger data security and unparalleled flexibility. If you want to step into today’s digital age, a cloud-based PMS is the solution that will skyrocket your business.

At NavTech Group we value the specific needs of our customers, and we offer solutions that match their goals. We are a trusted Microsoft and LS Retail partner with more than 80 successful projects, and we will be more than pleased to help you write the chapter of your business transformation, too. If you are considering migrating to the cloud, do not hesitate to contact us as migration can be a challenging process, especially when it comes to planning and cost. Our team has expertise in various industries, including hotels and hospitality, and we never compromise on our customers’ satisfaction.

Source: Why a cloud-based property management system makes sense for your hotel
 

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