19 Hotel Scheduling Software To Improve Operations Of 2024
10 Best Hotel Scheduling Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 19 tools reviewed.
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Managing a hotel, big or small, comes with a myriad of tasks and responsibilities. Everything from room availability, reservations, room service, and staff scheduling, to providing a remarkable guest experience is on you. It can feel overwhelming, right? Here's the thing; it doesn't have to be that way.
You gain control, improve efficiency, and offer the best guest experience possible. The tangible benefit here is time saved and costs minimized. Remember those nights spent juggling Excel sheets, trying to align employee availability with shifts? Or the frustration of double bookings, and the confusion around resource allocation?
These tools nip those issues in the bud. They are user-friendly, web-based, and designed specifically for the hospitality industry. You will spend less time on administrative tasks and more on the thing that matters the most - providing an exceptional guest experience.
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Trust me, once you use these, you'll wonder how you ever managed without them. Check them out, pick the one that suits your needs the best, and let the software do the heavy lifting. You won't be disappointed.
What Is A Hotel Scheduling Software?
Hotel scheduling software is a specialized tool designed to streamline and optimize operations within the hospitality industry. From small boutique hostels, to campgrounds, motels, vacation rentals, and large hotel chains. These digital solutions are widely used to manage and organize key aspects of the business.
They handle diverse tasks including staff scheduling, POS system, room booking and hotel reservations, rate management, online booking engine, front-office and back-office management, invoicing, managing day-to-day operations, upselling, payment processing (credit card, debit card, etc.), messaging via mobile app, check-in and check-out, SaaS (Software as a Service) interface, hotel website management, customer relationship management, and resource allocation.
They provide an integrated platform where all these functions interact smoothly, enabling hoteliers to provide exceptional customer service, manage their resources efficiently, and ultimately, drive profitability.
Best Hotel Scheduling Software Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| TimeTrex | From $5/user/month | Website |
| Little Hotelier | Pricing upon request | Website |
| innRoad | From $150/user/month | Website |
| Agendrix | From $1/user/month | Website |
| Hotel Effectiveness | Pricing upon request | Website |
| RoomKey PMS | From $100/user/month | Website |
| SiteMinder | From $40/user/month | Website |
| TCP Hospitality | From $12/user/month | Website |
| Life House | From $120/user/month | Website |
| Resource Management by Smartsheet | From $14/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareBest Hotel Scheduling Software Reviews
TimeTrex is a comprehensive workforce management solution that integrates various functionalities aimed at managing employee time tracking, scheduling, payroll processing, and attendance management.
Why I Picked TimeTrex: I like that TimeTrex's automated scheduling capabilities allow businesses to create optimized schedules, accommodating both simple and complex multi-week rotating schedules. In addition to scheduling, TimeTrex integrates time and attendance tracking, which is crucial for maintaining accurate payroll and compliance. The software includes advanced functionalities such as biometric time clocks and GPS tracking.
Standout features & integrations:
TimeTrex provides mobile accessibility, allowing employees to check their schedules, clock in/out, and request leave from their mobile devices. It also provides robust analytics tools that help managers understand labor costs, productivity, and other key metrics. Integrations include QuickBooks, Sage, ADP, Paychex, Ceridian, Xero, SAP, and Oracle.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customization options to meet business needs
- Good automation features
- Real-time insights and reports
Cons:
- Initial setup is complex
- Could have more robust messaging features
Best for small hotel businesses seeking comprehensive management tools
Little Hotelier is a property management system and a hotel management solution specifically created for small hotels, B&B’s, inns, and other small lodging facilities. It's a complete suite of tools designed to simplify operations, making it particularly beneficial for small hotel businesses seeking comprehensive management solutions.
Why I Picked Little Hotelier:
I picked Little Hotelier because it offers a powerful blend of features tailored to the needs of small hotel businesses. Its uniqueness lies in its comprehensive solution that integrates front desk operations, reservations, channel management, and billing into a single platform. Its focus on small-scale operations is what makes it the best for small hotel businesses seeking comprehensive management tools.
Standout features and integrations:
Little Hotelier features a user-friendly front desk system that streamlines daily operations. It also includes an integrated channel manager to ensure real-time updates across all your booking channels. In addition, the platform can seamlessly integrate with popular online travel agencies and global distribution systems, increasing the visibility of your property to potential guests.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Streamlined front desk operations
- Integrated channel manager for wide distribution
- Comprehensive suite of management tools
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- May be too complex for very small operations
- Pricing information not readily available
InnRoad is a comprehensive hotel management system that specializes in serving independent hotels. It provides a broad range of services, including reservation management, online booking, and reporting, catering ideally to independent hotels looking for a comprehensive platform.
Why I Picked InnRoad:
I picked InnRoad for its extensive features that cater specifically to the needs of independent hotels. What makes it stand out is its all-in-one platform, which simplifies hotel management processes. Given these considerations, it seems clear to me that InnRoad is best suited for independent hotels that need a full-service platform.
Standout features and integrations:
InnRoad offers a multitude of key features, such as real-time inventory management, an integrated booking engine, and advanced reporting tools. It integrates well with various OTAs and Global Distribution Systems (GDS), further enhancing its reach and functionality.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrates with multiple OTAs and GDS
- Provides real-time inventory management
- Offers comprehensive features tailored for independent hotels
Cons:
- Some users have reported slow customer service response times
- The interface could be more intuitive
- Might not be cost-effective for very small hotels
Agendrix is an employee scheduling software specifically designed to improve efficiency in workforce management. Its robust set of features facilitates the scheduling process, making it ideal for enhancing employee shift management efficiency.
Why I Picked Agendrix:
I selected Agendrix due to its comprehensive, yet simple approach to employee scheduling. The tool truly shines with its easy-to-use interface and broad feature set tailored specifically for employee management. In my judgment, Agendrix stands out with its well-thought-out design, combining scheduling, time-tracking, and communication tools in one platform, which justifies why it is best for enhancing employee shift management efficiency.
Standout features and integrations:
Agendrix boasts of a flexible scheduling feature, which allows for the smooth creation and adjustment of work schedules. The software also has an automated time-tracking system, providing accurate labor cost insights. It integrates with numerous payroll and HR systems like QuickBooks, Xero, and ADP, offering a seamless flow of information between different software tools.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports numerous integrations with payroll and HR systems
- Integrated time-tracking and labor cost insights
- Flexible and straightforward scheduling
Cons:
- Advanced features require higher-priced plans
- Billed annually, which might not suit all businesses
- Extra charge as a base fee each month
Hotel Effectiveness provides labor-management solutions specifically for the hotel industry. The software enables hotel owners and managers to plan, track, and manage their labor requirements and costs, hence, it is best for optimizing labor costs in the hotel industry.
Why I Picked Hotel Effectiveness:
I chose Hotel Effectiveness because it specifically addresses the major concern of labor cost optimization in the hotel industry. Its specialty lies in providing a focused solution rather than being a generalist hotel management software. Given its commitment to labor cost management and its comprehensive features in this area, I determined it's the best for optimizing labor costs in the hotel industry.
Standout features and integrations:
Hotel Effectiveness includes advanced features, such as the PerfectLabor™ tool that provides an ideal labor plan for each department in a hotel. It also has an automated time and attendance tool, eliminating the need for manual input and reducing errors. It integrates well with major property management systems, HR platforms, and payroll providers, ensuring a smooth data flow across all systems.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good integration with other hotel management systems
- Provides automated time and attendance tracking
- Specializes in labor cost management
Cons:
- Could be complex for small hotel operations
- May lack some general hotel management features
- Pricing information isn't transparent
RoomKey PMS is a cloud-based Hotel Property Management System designed for hotels to manage bookings, rates, and guest engagement. The software's central theme revolves around improving guest experiences, making it best for establishments to prioritize personalized guest services.
Why I Picked RoomKey PMS:
I chose RoomKey PMS for this list due to its emphasis on enhancing guest experiences through personalized services. The platform's uniquely guest-centric approach and intuitive features stood out. I believe it's the best tool for improving guest experiences as it offers efficient tools to manage reservations, customer engagement, and personalized service delivery.
Standout features and integrations:
Key features of RoomKey Hotel PMS include online booking management, front desk operations, and CRM features that enable personalized guest services. The tool integrates well with several third-party applications, including Booking.com, Expedia, and Agoda, facilitating seamless reservation management.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers robust third-party integrations for seamless operations
- Provides comprehensive property management features
- Focuses on improving guest experiences through personalized services
Cons:
- Customer support can be improved
- Interface could be more intuitive
- Pricing may be high for smaller establishments
SiteMinder is a complete hotel commerce platform that assists businesses in broadening their reach and maximizing revenue through efficient room distribution and strategic revenue management. It's particularly potent for those looking to derive the most income from their hospitality offerings.
Why I Picked SiteMinder:
I chose SiteMinder because it demonstrates an effective approach to hotel commerce management, offering the tools necessary to boost revenue and enhance operational efficiency. What sets it apart is its extensive network of distribution channels and advanced revenue management capabilities, leading me to judge it as the 'Best for maximizing revenue with a hotel commerce platform.”
Standout features and integrations:
SiteMinder offers features, such as channel management, a direct booking engine, and revenue management tools that are designed to maximize profits and optimize occupancy rates. Furthermore, it integrates smoothly with a range of Property Management Systems (PMS), Global Distribution Systems (GDS), and revenue management systems, enhancing its functionality and usability within a broader hospitality management ecosystem.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Smooth integration with various systems
- Advanced revenue management tools
- Extensive network of distribution channels
Cons:
- Additional costs for premium features and integrations
- Not the best fit for very small establishments
- Might be more complex than some other platforms
TCP Hospitality is a labor-management tool designed specifically for the hospitality industry. It offers features like labor forecasting, shift scheduling, and real-time reporting, making it an excellent choice for comprehensive labor-management in the hospitality sector.
Why I Picked TCP Hospitality:
I chose TCP Hospitality because of its unique focus on labor-management within the hospitality industry. Its capability to offer targeted solutions like labor forecasting and real-time reporting differentiates it from other general labor-management tools. It's for these reasons I believe TCP Hospitality is the 'Best for comprehensive labor-management in hospitality.”
Standout features and integrations:
TCP Hospitality is packed with useful features, including labor forecasting that helps predict staffing needs, real-time reporting for instant data access, and automated shift scheduling to optimize workforce efficiency. The tool integrates seamlessly with multiple payroll systems, enhancing its utility for comprehensive labor-management.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Seamless integration with multiple payroll systems
- Real-time reporting for instant access to data
- Comprehensive labor-management features tailored for the hospitality industry
Cons:
- Limited customization options in the reporting module
- The tool may have a steep learning curve for some users
- The user interface could be more user-friendly
Life House is a tech-enabled hotel management platform tailored to the needs of boutique hotels. It harnesses technology to streamline operations, manage bookings, and optimize revenue, making it ideal for boutique hotels that aim for technology-aided operations.
Why I Picked Life House:
In selecting Life House, I considered its tech-forward approach and how it tailors to boutique hotels. Its model, which infuses technology into everyday operations and guest experience, sets it apart. Given this, I deduced that Life House stands out as the best for boutique hotels seeking tech-enabled operations.
Standout features and integrations:
Life House's standout features include a dynamic pricing engine, an intuitive booking platform, and tech-enabled guest communication. It integrates with multiple online travel agencies (OTAs) and also provides a seamless connection with popular social media platforms for effective marketing.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Includes a dynamic pricing engine for revenue optimization
- Offers robust third-party integrations
- Provides tech-forward operations specifically tailored to boutique hotels
Cons:
- Customer support could be improved
- The platform may require some learning curve to understand its tech-based features
- May not be suitable for larger hotel chains
Best for large-scale resource allocation and tracking
Resource Management by Smartsheet offers an extensive solution for resource allocation and tracking in large-scale projects. The software empowers managers to monitor their resources, optimize their allocation, and make data-driven decisions. Hence, it is best for large-scale resource allocation and tracking.
Why I Picked Resource Management by Smartsheet:
I selected Resource Management by Smartsheet because it offers in-depth functionality for resource management. Its ability to handle complex, large-scale projects is unique, and its flexible resource management capabilities stood out to me. It's best for large-scale resource allocation and tracking due to its comprehensive features and robust scalability.
Standout features and integrations:
Resource Management by Smartsheet comes packed with features like real-time dashboards, Gantt charts, automated workflows, and more. The software provides a consolidated view of resource allocation, helping to identify and address resource conflicts proactively. Integration-wise, it can link with various other systems, including ERP, CRM, and other project management tools, offering a unified resource management solution.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive integration capabilities
- Good for managing large-scale projects
- Robust resource management features
Cons:
- Higher learning curve compared to simpler tools
- Can be complex to use initially
- Might be overwhelming for small businesses
Other Hotel Scheduling Software
Below is a list of additional hotel scheduling software that we shortlisted but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Seven Rooms
For leveraging customer data for personalized service
- Roomkey PMS
For improving guest experiences with personalized service
- ZoomShift
For streamlined team scheduling in hospitality
- Buddy Punch
For drag-and-drop staff scheduling
- Connecteam
For customizable scheduling templates
- Deputy
Good for hospitality businesses seeking schedule cost calculation
- When I Work
Good for quick and intuitive employee scheduling in hotels and resorts
- Cloudbeds
For integrating reservation and property management
- ConnectTeam
Good for providing a unified communication platform along with scheduling
Popular Hotel Software
Here are some other lists of popular hotel software for you to check out.
Selection Criteria For Hotel Scheduling Software
In my endeavor to provide an exhaustive and authentic review, I've rigorously evaluated more than twenty hotel scheduling software solutions. Based on the specific criteria I deemed critical for the hotel industry, I've chosen the best tools that meet those parameters. Here is the key criteria that I focused on:
Core Functionality
- Employee Scheduling: Enables managers to create and modify work schedules for employees
- Time and Attendance Tracking: Tracks the hours an employee works and monitors adherence to scheduled hours
- Communication Tools: Provides platforms for managers and employees to communicate about schedules, shift changes, and other issues
Key Features
- Mobile Accessibility: Allows managers and employees to access schedules and communicate from any device
- Labor Cost Calculation: Helps calculate labor costs and predict future costs based on scheduling
- Automatic Scheduling: Uses algorithms to automatically generate optimal schedules based on employee availability and business needs
Usability
- Intuitive Interface: The software should have a clear, easy-to-understand interface, making it straightforward for managers to create schedules and for employees to understand their shifts
- Quick Onboarding: Offers comprehensive onboarding resources, ensuring users can quickly understand and effectively use the system
- Robust Customer Support: Provides prompt and efficient customer support to troubleshoot any issues users might encounter
People Also Ask (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using hotel scheduling software?
Hotel scheduling software brings multiple benefits to the table. Firstly, it saves time by automating the scheduling process, removing the need for manual entries. Secondly, it improves accuracy by reducing the likelihood of human error in scheduling and time-tracking.
Thirdly, it enhances communication, allowing managers and employees to discuss schedules and changes in real-time. Fourthly, it provides valuable insights into labor costs and helps predict future costs. Lastly, these tools often come with mobile functionality, allowing staff to check their schedules, request changes, and communicate with managers from anywhere.
How much do hotel scheduling software tools cost?
The cost of hotel scheduling software tools varies widely, depending on the range of features, the number of users, and the provider. Some tools operate on a subscription basis, charging a monthly or annual fee per user. Others might offer tiered pricing structures, where different tiers come with different features and cater to different sizes of hotels.
What is the typical range of pricing for hotel scheduling software?
The typical price range for hotel scheduling software can start from around $10 per user per month and go up to $100 or more. Remember, more expensive doesn’t always mean better—it’s important to find a tool that fits your specific needs and budget.
Which are the cheapest and most expensive hotel scheduling software?
Among the tools mentioned in this list, Connecteam starts from a lower price point at $29 per month for up to 200 users, while innRoad can be more expensive, with prices starting at $150 per user per month. However, prices can change, and it’s always a good idea to check the provider’s website for the most up-to-date information.
Are there any free hotel scheduling software options?
Yes, some tools like When I Work offer a free plan for up to 75 users. However, these free options often come with limitations in features or user numbers, and upgrading to a paid plan may be necessary for larger hotels or for access to advanced features. Tools like Hotelogix and eZee also offer a free trial or demo to allow potential customers to evaluate the software’s features and usability before committing to a purchase. Always remember to consider your specific needs when choosing a tool.
Other Hotel Staffing Software
Here are some other useful tools for hotel staff and labor management.
What Next?
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