APAC is ready to move into Cloud PMS
Hotel management software is the backbone of hotel operations, with the PMS at its core, run from an on-premises server. However, times are changing, and on-premises solutions are becoming more of a liability than an asset for business owners and operators. Gradually they are being replaced by a new trend, cloud solutions, which according to the IDC are growing at an annual rate of 28.8% in the APAC region.
On premises solutions: cons
Let’s look at the key disadvantages of on-premises solutions:
- High CAPEX + Annual recurring fee.
- Long deployment time.
- Hardware and infrastructure lead time, which can affect the start date for new establishments.
- Data security and virus attack.
- Upgrade costs to stay on the latest version.
- Lack of flexibility with regards to working area.
- Limited Mobility.
There are many other reasons why businesses should consider the move from traditional on-premises solutions, but a cloud-based PMS not only addresses these concerns it adds many benefits and advantages for hoteliers.
Cloud solutions: pros
HRS works with Oracle Hospitality to bring cloud PMS to hoteliers across the globe, and the most significant benefit to consider when moving to the cloud version of OPERA is having the complete solution supplied by a single vendor.
We work with local/regional partners to offer bespoke solutions such as:
- Contactless pre-arrival registration, health declarations, and self-check-in/out. This is slowly becoming the norm in post-COVID times; this solution reduces touch points, reduces waiting time at the reception desk, and improves operational efficiency. Our team works with partners to meet your solution requirements. We combine contactless solutions into one overall package under the control of a single vendor, which makes life much easier for the hotelier.
- Payment integration — Different countries have different payment systems and HRS works locally with them to help integrate the Oracle Payment Interface into your business. We already have integrations with many local and regional banks, so we can support your business as a single service provider using the Oracle Hospitality integration platform.
Another important component of the OPERA Cloud is the Fiscal solution. We use our own fiscal platform to ensure that OPERA Cloud is locally compliant, and all concerns related to fiscal matters are addressed. A recent successful example of our fiscal platform is the Green Tax (Maldives). Using the HRS fiscal platform, we were able to easily produce automated monthly reports to the local authorities.
Most of the APAC countries that we operate in have local teams. This allows us to manage sales processes and the delivery of services in a way that is compatible with local practices. Local resources also address key issues of travel and language support.
Whilst OPERA Cloud does offer eLearning in English, HRS is very happy to offer local language support in the 22 countries that it operates in the Asia Pacific region.
Benefits through inconveniences
Hotels that have on-premises OPERA must assess and review the implications before deciding to move to the cloud. HRS has various tools that will help Hotels/Resorts to manage this effectively and smoothly.
Our professional team will look at how you use your on-premises solution and assess what cloud subscription model is the most suitable one for you.
HRS offers additional help to customers moving to the cloud through Value Added Services (VAS). We instruct hotels on how to use the solution more effectively, this improves the communication and support experience between Oracle and the customer. Our team of professionals will guide you through any issues that you may have.
In summary, HRS are here to help hoteliers fit the cloud seamlessly into their business operation, not the other way round.
Author: Anshu Shrivastava
HRS Area Director Service Delivery, Southeast Asia
