When you're running a motel, there are a lot of things to keep track of. It can be a lot to handle from making sure the rooms are clean and comfortable to managing your finances and marketing your business.
That's where motel management software comes in.
What Is Motel Management Software?
This software can help you handle all the administrative tasks of running a motel, from online bookings to tracking customer data.
Motel management software is a type of software that helps motel owners and managers keep track of their business. This can include tracking reservations, managing finances, and overseeing staff.
One popular example of motel management software is ResNexus. This software lets motel owners track their reservations, finances, and staff. It also provides several other features, such as online booking and marketing tools.
12 Best Motel Management Software Shortlist
There are many different types of motel software products on the market. Let's take a look at ten of the most popular ones. Here is a list of the best motel management software products today.
- OnRes - Best for all-in-one property management
- Preno - Best for ease of use and interface
- otelms - Best for broad distribution channels
- Sirvoy Motel Software - Best for integration flexibility
- Little Hotelier - Best for boutique motels and inns
- MotelMate - Best for New Zealand-based accommodations
- Anand Systems Inc - Best for multi-platform functionality
- ReservationKey - Best for tailored reservation controls
- Clock PMS - Best for guest-centric approaches
- Newbook - Best for cloud-driven processes
- Cloudbeds - Best for adaptive accommodation types
- innRoad - Best for scaling motel operations
Overviews of the 12 Best Motel Management Software
1. OnRes - Best for all-in-one property management
OnRes offers a comprehensive platform tailored to the nuances of motel management. By merging several critical functionalities under one roof, it simplifies the complex web of day-to-day operations that motels grapple with.
Why I Picked OnRes:
From my extensive research and comparison of various hotel management software (HMS) options, I chose OnRes because of its all-encompassing features. Its capability to integrate numerous hotel management tasks within a singular interface made it particularly appealing. When considering an all-in-one property management system, OnRes stood out for its user-friendly interface and broad range of integrated tools, making it an ideal choice for establishments seeking a centralized system.
Standout features & integrations:
OnRes excels with its integrated booking engine, offering real-time room availability checks. The software’s property management system enables efficient check-in processes and improves the guest experience. Furthermore, OnRes provides easy integrations with popular OTAs, a boon for motels looking to widen their reach.
Pricing:
From $25/user/month (billed annually) + $49 base fee per month
Pros:
- Comprehensive cloud-based property management system
- Efficient booking engine with real-time availability checks
- Strong integrations with popular OTAs
Cons:
- Might be overwhelming for smaller B&Bs
- Some features require a learning curve for complete utilization
- Mobile app functionality can be improved for front desk operations
2. Preno - Best for ease of use and interface
In the vast landscape of hotel management software, Preno stands out with its intuitive interface, making it a user-friendly choice for hoteliers. It's specifically designed to streamline hotel operations, emphasizing its ease of use, and making even the most complex tasks appear straightforward.
Why I Picked Preno:
When determining which tools to spotlight, Preno quickly captured my attention due to its beautifully designed interface and user-friendly features. Among the plethora of hotel management solutions I've assessed, Preno's design ethos prioritized user experience, setting it apart. Given the complexities of the hotel industry, having a system that simplifies day-to-day operations without compromising on functionality is crucial, and this is where Preno shines the brightest.
Standout features & integrations:
Preno is renowned for its cloud-based hotel management system, which provides real-time updates and comprehensive inventory management. Its booking engine is particularly notable, streamlining the check-in process and improving guest experience. Moreover, Preno's integration capabilities with platforms like Expedia and Airbnb means establishments can efficiently manage their online presence across multiple channels.
Pricing:
From $30/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- User-friendly interface suitable for all levels of users
- Efficient cloud-based hotel management system
- Strong integrations, particularly with OTAs and platforms like Airbnb
Cons:
- Could benefit from more advanced CRM features
- Mobile app could be improved for better on-the-go management
- Might be a learning curve for those used to more traditional systems.
3. Otelms - Best for broad distribution channels
Otelms is a comprehensive hotel management software tailored to help hotel businesses maximize their distribution across various channels. Recognizing the importance of a vast reach in today's digital age, Otelms ensures that hotels can capitalize on every available platform to improve their visibility and bookings.
Why I Picked Otelms:
Among the myriad hotel management systems I encountered, Otelms caught my eye because of its commitment to providing hotels with an extensive range of distribution channels. In this era where hotels must be visible across an array of platforms, from OTAs to social media, Otelms has carved out a distinct place for itself by ensuring this extensive distribution. Its promise to extend a hotel's reach is what sets it apart and why I believe it's the "Best for broad distribution channels".
Standout features & integrations:
Otelms stands out with its cloud-based hotel management system, ensuring real-time updates and efficient day-to-day operations. With a robust booking engine, hotels can ensure that check-ins and guest experiences are as smooth as possible. More impressively, Otelms integrates with leading OTAs, social media platforms, and even direct bookings, thus ensuring a hotel's visibility is at its peak at all times.
Pricing:
From $25/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Broad distribution channels including major OTAs and social media
- Cloud-based system ensures updated hotel operations
- Efficient booking engine to simplify guest check-in processes
Cons:
- Could offer more in-depth CRM capabilities
- Mobile app experience may require refinement for optimal use
- Steeper learning curve for those transitioning from traditional systems.
4. Sirvoy Motel Software - Best for integration flexibility
Sirvoy Motel Software is a robust hotel management solution that caters specifically to motels and similar hospitality businesses. With its advanced features and an emphasis on integration flexibility, it becomes a viable choice for motel owners who need a system that can connect with various third-party tools and platforms.
Why I Picked Sirvoy Motel Software:
In my quest to find the best hotel management software, Sirvoy Motel Software particularly stood out due to its outstanding flexibility when it comes to integrations. When determining the right fit for a diverse range of motels, I judge based on how adaptable a system is. In my opinion, Sirvoy has demonstrated unparalleled prowess in this aspect, making it the "Best for integration flexibility".
Standout features & integrations:
At its core, Sirvoy offers cloud-based property management software that ensures real-time updates and efficient front desk operations. The software's user-friendly booking engine simplifies check-in processes and improves the guest experience. But what truly differentiates Sirvoy is its vast array of integrations with prominent OTAs, point of sale systems, and even direct bookings via platforms like Airbnb and Expedia.
Pricing:
From $15/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Vast range of third-party integrations
- Cloud-based system for instant updates
- User-friendly booking engine for smooth guest experiences
Cons:
- Might be more suitable for motels than larger hotel chains
- CRM capabilities could be further improved
- Requires a certain learning curve for first-time users.
5. Little Hotelier - Best for boutique motels and inns
Little Hotelier is a property management system specifically designed to streamline operations for boutique motels, hostels, and inns. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools, from booking engines to customer management, which perfectly suits the unique needs of smaller-scale, specialized hospitality establishments.
Why I Picked Little Hotelier:
After evaluating various hotel management software solutions, I selected Little Hotelier because of its targeted approach to boutique motels and inns. While comparing the software against others in terms of features and customer reviews, it was clear that Little Hotelier fills a niche that often goes underrepresented. It stands out by perfectly aligning its features with the needs of boutique motels and inns, hence it's the "Best for boutique motels and inns."
Standout features & integrations:
Little Hotelier focuses on providing a cloud-based hotel property management system with features such as real-time inventory management, point-of-sale capabilities, and user-friendly front-office interfaces. Another advantage is its booking engine which directly integrates with OTAs and travel agencies, allowing property owners to manage multiple channels from a single dashboard.
Pricing:
Starting from $10/user/month (billed annually, min 3 seats)
Pros:
- Direct integrations with OTAs and travel agencies
- Real-time inventory management
- Point of sale capabilities suited for boutique settings
Cons:
- Limited scalability for larger hotel chains
- No dedicated mobile app for on-the-go management
- Initial set-up can be time-consuming for those unfamiliar with property management systems.
6. MotelMate - Best for New Zealand-based accommodations
MotelMate offers a comprehensive property management system, tailored for accommodations in New Zealand. With features attuned to the unique requirements of the New Zealand hospitality industry, MotelMate aids in streamlining the day-to-day operations of motels, B&Bs, and other similar establishments.
Why I Picked MotelMate:
I chose MotelMate because of its niche focus on New Zealand's hospitality industry. When determining and comparing various hotel management software, it was evident that MotelMate holds a distinct position due to its understanding of local hotel operations. Its specialized features and integration capabilities make it "Best for New Zealand-based accommodations."
Standout features & integrations:
MotelMate boasts a cloud-based hotel management system that comes with an intuitive booking engine and real-time inventory management. It also provides user-friendly front office and back office functions, ensuring efficient check-in and check-out processes. The system integrates with local OTAs and travel agencies, making it easier for property owners in New Zealand to manage bookings and guest communication.
Pricing:
From $15/user/month (billed annually, min 2 seats)
Pros:
- Tailored for the specific needs of New Zealand accommodations
- Integrates well with local OTAs and travel agencies
- Real-time inventory management
Cons:
- Limited applicability for accommodations outside New Zealand
- Might lack some advanced features offered by larger international systems
- Requires an initial learning curve for those not familiar with digital hotel management solutions.
7. Anand Systems Inc. - Best for multi-platform functionality
Anand Systems Inc. offers a robust hotel management solution designed to cater to the diverse needs of the hotel industry. Its standout feature is its ability to function across multiple platforms, ensuring efficient hotel operations regardless of the device in use.
Why I Picked Anand Systems Inc:
In selecting tools for this list, I was determined to find software that showcased unique and beneficial capabilities. Anand Systems Inc. caught my attention because of its adaptability across various platforms, making it distinct from many of its peers. Its multi-platform functionality establishes it as the "Best for multi-platform functionality," catering to hospitality businesses that utilize a variety of devices in their day-to-day operations.
Standout features & integrations:
One of Anand Systems Inc.'s most impressive features is its cloud-based property management system, which is accessible from both desktops and smartphones. The software boasts a user-friendly booking engine, efficient check-in processes, messaging, and real-time inventory management. Moreover, the software integrates with major OTAs, travel agencies, and point-of-sale systems, simplifying hotel operations even further.
Pricing:
From $20/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Cloud-based system ensuring accessibility across devices
- Comprehensive integrations with OTAs and POS systems
- Real-time inventory management
Cons:
- Might require training for those unfamiliar with multi-platform tools
- Some features might be overwhelming for smaller establishments
- Customer support response times can vary.
8. ReservationKey - Best for tailored reservation controls
ReservationKey is a dedicated hotel management software that provides a comprehensive suite of tools for hospitality businesses. Its standout functionality is the tailored reservation controls it offers, which enable businesses to fine-tune their booking engine to their specific requirements.
Why I Picked ReservationKey:
In my quest to determine the most effective tools for hotel management, ReservationKey emerged as a contender worth selecting. What differentiates it from others is its unparalleled control over reservations, enabling businesses to offer a guest experience tailored to their unique brand. I firmly believe that this tool is the "Best for tailored reservation controls" because it empowers hotels to manage bookings on their terms.
Standout features & integrations:
ReservationKey stands out for its user-friendly booking engine that provides real-time inventory management. In addition, the software ensures smooth check-in processes and optimizes revenue management. Its integrations are noteworthy too. ReservationKey syncs with major OTAs, travel agencies, and point of sale systems, thereby streamlining hotel operations and front desk operations.
Pricing:
From $25/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- User-friendly tailored reservation controls
- Real-time inventory management
- Integrations with OTAs and POS systems
Cons:
- Some features might have a learning curve for new users
- Pricing can be a bit steep for smaller establishments
- Dependency on cloud-based access can cause issues in low connectivity areas.
9. Clock PMS - Best for guest-centric approaches
Clock PMS is a robust hotel management software that offers a myriad of tools tailored to uplift the hospitality industry. This platform particularly shines in its ability to prioritize the guest experience, aligning its functions and features around a guest-centric methodology.
Why I Picked Clock PMS:
During my research, Clock PMS consistently came to the forefront when I was selecting tools that put the guests at the heart of their functionality. After comparing various platforms, what made Clock PMS distinct was its unwavering focus on improving the guest experience throughout their stay. This dedication to guest-centricity is precisely why I assert it's the "Best for guest-centric approaches."
Standout features & integrations:
Clock PMS provides user-friendly tools, from its booking engine to real-time inventory management. A highlight is its mobile app, which is designed to streamline check-in processes, facilitate guest communication, and enable upselling of hotel services spas, Wi-Fi, room service, and more. When it comes to integrations, Clock PMS integrates efficiently with popular OTAs, payment processing platforms, and point-of-sale systems, ensuring hotel operations are cohesive.
Pricing:
From $30/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Strong emphasis on a guest-centric experience
- Comprehensive mobile app for guest communication and services
- Efficient integrations with OTAs and payment platforms
Cons:
- Might be overwhelming for smaller hospitality businesses
- Cloud-based system might not be ideal for areas with connectivity issues
- Some users might find transitioning to its platform from another system to be a bit challenging.
10. Newbook - Best for cloud-driven processes
Newbook is a dynamic hotel management software, meticulously designed for modern hotel businesses. Its powerful cloud-based system ensures streamlined day-to-day operations, making it indispensable for businesses seeking efficient cloud-driven processes.
Why I Picked Newbook:
In determining the best tools for hotel management, Newbook's cloud-driven capabilities quickly caught my attention. After judiciously comparing it with similar tools, its clear advantage was the depth and breadth of its cloud-based offerings. This strength in harnessing the power of the cloud led me to believe it is undoubtedly the "Best for cloud-driven processes."
Standout features & integrations:
Newbook offers a user-friendly booking engine, allowing hotels to capture direct bookings with ease. The platform excels in real-time inventory management and front desk operations, ensuring that guest check-in processes are smooth. Integrations-wise, Newbook connects with popular OTAs, diverse payment processing gateways (Credit card), and potent point-of-sale systems, offering a holistic solution for hoteliers.
Pricing:
From $40/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Robust cloud-based capabilities to ensure consistent hotel operations
- Efficient online booking engine for capturing direct bookings
- Comprehensive integrations with OTAs and payment gateways
Cons:
- Learning curve might be steep for those new to cloud-based systems
- Might not be the best fit for very small hotels or B&Bs due to its broad feature set
- The system might experience occasional delays during peak usage times.
11. Cloudbeds - Best for adaptive accommodation types
Cloudbeds is a hotel management solution tailored to address the diverse needs of the hospitality industry. Its intuitive platform is designed to handle the demands of various accommodation types, from bustling hotel chains to serene B&Bs, hostels, vacation rentals, and villas, making it an ideal choice for those in search of versatility.
Why I Picked Cloudbeds:
Through my process of selecting top hotel management software, Cloudbeds emerged as a tool that genuinely understands the varied landscape of hospitality accommodations. Judging by its features, design, and user feedback, its adaptability in catering to different accommodation types sets it apart. Consequently, I deem it "Best for adaptive accommodation types."
Standout features & integrations:
Cloudbeds showcases a user-friendly booking engine, facilitating increased direct bookings. It also boasts real-time inventory management and a robust multi property management system that ensures smooth front desk operations. On the integration front, Cloudbeds excels by connecting with prominent OTAs like Expedia and Airbnb, as well as incorporating payment processing options and prominent POS systems to further simplify hotel operations.
Pricing:
From $20/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Versatile system that caters to multiple accommodation types
- Comprehensive integration with popular OTAs and POS systems
- Real-time inventory and rate management features
Cons:
- Might be slightly overwhelming for complete beginners due to its extensive feature set
- Some users might find the mobile app less comprehensive than the desktop version
- Initial setup and customization can be time-consuming for complex hotel operations.
12. innRoad - Best for scaling motel operations
innRoad is a cloud-based property management system designed to streamline hotel and motel management. Its offerings, coupled with powerful integrations, are specifically oriented to empower motels seeking to scale and improve their operations efficiently.
Why I Picked innRoad:
While researching various hotel management systems, innRoad captured my attention due to its dedicated features for motels. After comparing and determining the unique aspects of this platform, it became evident that its adaptability and ease of use were paramount for motels in expansion mode. This is why I firmly believe it's "Best for scaling motel operations."
Standout features & integrations:
innRoad offers a user-friendly booking engine that encourages direct bookings, coupled with real-time inventory management to ensure that day-to-day operations run smoothly. Its check-in and front desk operations are simplified to aid motels in providing an improved guest experience. When it comes to integrations, innRoad integrates with leading OTAs such as Expedia and Airbnb. Additionally, it offers integrations with payment processing tools and prominent point-of-sale systems, supporting motels in their endeavor to scale efficiently.
Pricing:
From $15/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Tailored features for motels, aiding in efficient scaling
- Comprehensive OTA integrations which foster increased bookings
- Real-time inventory management streamlining operations
Cons:
- The interface might require a short learning curve for first-time users
- While extensive, integrations might not cover niche third-party tools
- The mobile app might not offer all functionalities present in the desktop version.
Other Motel Management Software
Below is a list of additional motel management software that we shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
- SiteMinder - Good for broad channel connectivity
- eZee FrontDesk - Good for detailed guest profiles
- Eptura - Good for streamlined room management
- Roomsy - Good for inventory and housekeeping coordination
- HiSITE Channel Manager - Good for multi-channel distribution
- Lodgify - Good for website and booking integration
- Checkfront - Good for varied accommodation types
What Are the Benefits of Using Motel Management Software?
There are many benefits of using motel management software, which is why it's such an important tool for motel owners and operators.
Some of the key benefits include:
- Improved guest satisfaction
- Streamlined operations
- Reduced costs
- Easier staff management
When you're looking for good software, find one that offers all-in-one solution of the features you need. For example, look for a product that can help you track reservations, manage finances, and oversee housekeeping.
How Much Does Motel Management Software Usually Cost?
Typically, motel management software costs between $200 and $600 per month. However, some cheaper options are available, and more expensive software can cost up to $2,000 per month.
When considering how much to spend, you should look at the important features and decide what is worth the extra cost. For example, if you want software that can handle online bookings, then you will need to pay more than if you need a program to track reservations.
Key Features To Look For
When looking for motel management software, there are a few key features you should keep in mind.
The key features to look for include online booking capabilities, reservation management, marketing tools, reporting features (tracking everything from occupancy rates to room revenue to marketing expenses), and accounting modules.
Consider these functions as well:
Ease of use: Look for software that is easy to use and navigate. If it's too complicated, you'll quickly become frustrated and may not use it at all.
Integration: Make sure the software can integrate with your other systems, SaaS integrated, such as your accounting software, payroll software, and online reservation system. This will make transferring data between systems much easier.
Customization: Can the software be customized to meet your specific needs? Or will you be limited to the features it offers?
Support: Can you get help if you need it? Is there a customer service department that can answer your questions?
Cost: How much does the software cost? Make sure you're getting good value for your money.
How To Choose The Right Software?
Every motel management software has distinct advantages, tailored to cater to different operational needs. It's crucial to delve into comprehensive research before arriving at a final choice. Some fundamental functionalities that are generally considered pivotal include the ability to generate invoices, handle reservations, manage billing, and monitor employee working hours.
In your quest to pinpoint the most apt software for your establishment, several key parameters deserve attention:
- Business Scale: It's important to factor in the size and scale of your motel. Certain software solutions might cater better to larger chains, while others are specifically designed for boutique or independent hotels.
- Feature Requisites: List down the functionalities you can't do without. This will help you identify a software solution that matches your operational needs without burdening you with extraneous features.
- Budgetary Constraints: Affordability is crucial. While it's tempting to opt for a solution with a myriad of features, it's vital to ensure that the pricing aligns with your budget. Remember, the most expensive option is not always the most suitable one.
- Support and Customer Service: A software's post-purchase support can significantly influence its usability. Always consider the responsiveness and efficacy of the software provider's customer service. An efficient support system can drastically reduce operational disruptions in times of software hitches.
Other Motel Management Software Reviews
- Motel Software
- Property management
- Housekeeping
- Hotel scheduling software
- Front desk
- Guest survey software
- Small hotel reservation system
- Hotel PBX
- Hotel Internet
Conclusion
In the fast-paced world of hospitality management, having the right motel management software can be the difference between thriving and merely surviving. Motel owners and managers can improve guest experiences, streamline operations, and boost profitability by leveraging state-of-the-art technologies and intuitive platforms.
As you embark on your journey to find the ideal solution, read unbiased reviews from similar hoteliers and so much more. Remember to prioritize your establishment's unique needs and operational scale. The right software eases day-to-day management and paves the way for sustained growth and success in the hospitality industry.