How to Select a Smart Hotel Management Software Vendor in Malaysia – Part 2

Our last blog was all about how to select a hotel management software vendor in Malaysia. We also walked you through the features of IDS Next’s integrated hotel management software. Now in this concluding part, we shall discuss about how hotels in Malaysia can leverage a host of value added solutions by adopting IDS Next’s hotel property management software.

We have integrated our FortuneNEXT 6i Hotel PMS System with many operationally imperative value added solutions. Here they are – Read More

Published In: IDS Next ASEAN

By: Sandeep Menon

How to Select a Smart Hotel Management Software Vendor in Malaysia – Part 1

Hotel business around the globe has been witnessing the positive impact of many hospitality technology solutions. And when we talk about Malaysian hotel industry, we cannot simply ignore the enormous importance of hotel management software. Because for a hotel operating in Malaysia, it becomes extremely important to concentrate on guest experience. This can be achieved only by automating day to day complex operations. 

Hotel industry in this Southeast Asian country is thriving. According to the Malaysian Tourism Department, the country had around 4, 072 classified hotels with 262, 021 rooms in 2014. In addition to this, around 23% of those properties were in luxury segment and rests of them were mid-size hotels run by local operators. The outlook of the Malaysian hotel market looks good, too with around 10,000 rooms expected to enter the market in next three years. Read More

Published In: IDS Next ASEAN

By: Sandeep Menon

 

Looking for User-friendly Hotel Management Software in Africa?

The growth of hotel industry across Africa during last couple of years is quite encouraging. Countries across the continent are witnessing moderate growth in their respective hotel market. Many international hotel brands are keen to set up their properties across countries. This has also led to the increased demand for hotel management software as hotels are facing intense competition to survive and stay profitable in the long run. 

According to a survey by W Hospitality Group, around 80 branded hotels with 14,073 rooms will be added in 2016. 2017 too will see 55 properties with around 10,988 rooms getting added to the continent’s overall inventory. Nearly 39 hotels with 8,671 rooms are in pipeline for 2019. Read More

Published in: IDS Next Africa

By: Rajesh P Yadav

Looking for a Hotel PMS Software with 360 Degree Solutions in Philippines?

Philippines’ hospitality industry is witnessing a good time. With tourist number projected to grow in coming years, this Southeast Asian country is also expecting its hotel industry to do well too. According to the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), currently Philippines has around 28,000 to 30,000 hotel rooms. In order to accommodate the projected 10 million tourists in 2016, the country would need 15,000 more hotel rooms. However, hotels – both old and new need to adopt smart Hotel PMS Software that would offer them a complete 360 Degree solution.

What hoteliers need from a Hotel PMS Software?

Today’s hoteliers understand the importance of technology adoption. They know that right technology adoption can help them in every aspect of their business. Plus, they also need value for the money they invest on buying hospitality software solutions. Intense competition has led them to look for a Hotel PMS Software that would help them in selling more rooms apart from automating operations. Read More

Published in: IDS Next ASEAN

By: Sandeep Menon

 

Top 10 Reasons for Adopting FortuneNEXT 6i Suite of Hotel Management Software

Hotel business is 24/7 guest facing. This means, in order to stay profitable in long run in today’s competitive business environment, a hotel needs to make sure that it offers top class services to its guests round the clock. The task does not end here. Apart from focusing heavily on guest experience, the hotel management also needs to take care of their daily operations that are highly complex by nature. If daily operational aspect gets maximum attention, the guest service part might get neglected. This no doubt will have negative impact. And if the management concentrates only on guest services, the entire operations will go for a toss, resulting in delayed and flawed work process. In this case, it is advisable for hoteliers to adopt user-friendly and easy to use hotel management software to strike a proper balance between both the major facets of their business. Read More

By: Manoj K Mohanty

Published in: IDS Next 

IDS Next launches Unlimited Free Training for its Clients

IDS Next, the leading hospitality IT major has launched free online training program for its Hotel ERP Software users. Through this, the hospitality software vendor aims to ensure higher operational efficiency for the hotels. The training program covers all 12 modules of FortuneNEXT 6i Hotel Management Software, the flagship product of the company. This comprehensive training program has been conceived by the company’s 24/7 Technical Support Centre. 

“About 40% of calls we receive are either for clarifications or customers asking us for training. This prompted us to come up with the idea of this online training program. This is free and we cover A to Z of our software during this. We want to make sure that our customers are able to use our products effectively to utilize its fullest potential,” says Reeves Mathews, Manager – Technical Support. Read More

Published In: IDS Next

Empowering Golkonda Hotel's Operations for over Two Decades

Hyderabad based Golkonda Hospitality Services and Resorts Ltd runs two prominent properties namely, Golkonda Hotel and Golkonda Resorts & Spa. Golkonda Hotel Hyderabad is a leading business and leisure property with 141 well-appointed rooms and several other amenities. The hotel houses four suave F&B outlets such as Melange, Jewel of Nizam, Zanzi Bar and Upper Deck.

Golkonda Resorts & Spa is another feather in the group’s cap. This resort has 44 sophisticatedly decorated cottages and offers everything to its patrons looking for a leisurely stay. It also has urbane F&B outlets including Vetro, IVY, the pool side bar and Ebony, the lounge bar. Read More

Published in: IDS Next

Hotel Management Software for Bangladesh Hotel Industry

Bangladesh is home to famous Royal Bengal tigers, Sundarbans, white sandy beach of Kuakata and Kantajew temple, one of the finest masterpieces of medieval architecture. The list does not end here. This South Asian nation has many more natural wonders that attract tourists from around the globe. Therefore, Bangladesh also offers ample opportunity for hotel industry to grow year on year. However, to do smart business while staying profitable in the long run, hotels in Bangladesh should adopt new age hotel management software. 

At present there are 28 five-star, four-star and three-star hotels and resorts in the country. However, recent trends suggest that the demand for 5-star hotel accommodation in Dhaka is increasing at the rate of 15% every year. It also noted that, the demand is set to get further push in coming years. Read More

By: Subhadip Mukherji 

Published in: IDS Next 

In Limelight

This story of Senthil Kumar R has got all the ingredients and elements to inspire all of us. That’s true. Look at his commendable journey. His journey from a telephone booth attendant to become the one and only dynamic graphic designer at IDS Next is full of ups and downs and surprising events. He has been an important member of IDS Next marketing team since last 2 years.

Let’s hear it from him.

Tell us something about you?

Due to financial constraints, my dad told me that he would not be able to fund my studies post 10^th. And that blow was severe enough to destroy my ambition of becoming a software engineer. In 2000, I had passed 10^th standard with first class, yet I was helpless and clueless. That’s how I decided to take up a job to fund my further studies. In 2001, I started working in a telephone booth near my home as an attendant. I was on that job till 2002 and finished my PU.

I wanted to continue with graduation, but it was not possible due to financial problems back home. From 2002 to 2004, I worked as an industrial laborer in a lathe unit. Sometimes, I even had to work more as a construction worker to earn some extra money. I also had worked as a cafeteria helper and security guard in one of the IT parks in Bangalore. However, I managed to finish graduation in 2012.

How did you get to learn computer, graphic designing and all?

In 2005, one of my friends got me a job in a printing press as an office boy. I spent three years in that press and gradually started liking the graphic designing work. I showed my interest and the designer there was kind enough to teach me the basics. I was prompt to pick up nuances of digital designing. Those three years were crucial to me. Armed with around 50 % of skill set, I joined one small advertisement agency as a graphic designer in 2008. That’s how I developed an interest towards computers and graphic designing.

When did IDS Next happen?

I joined IDS Next in 2013. And during 2008 to 2013, I was able to learn some of the most important intricacies of graphic designing. I think that helped me to bag the job here. The day I got confirmation, I could not believe it. I was nothing few years ago, and now I take pride in saying that I work for one of the most prestigious global hospitality technology company. Most importantly, I can say that I am inextricably linked to IDS Next’s global marketing and branding effort.

What have you learnt here?

I always believe in learning new things as my work is all about creativity. Everyday, I think of what new elements I can bring in to my designs and what new thing I can learn. And at IDS Next, I get enough opportunity to learn and grow. Here, I have learnt how to perform better while sticking to the deadline. I have gained significant knowledge on video making, editing and photography. My two year stint here has taught me how to work on new technologies like flash, illustrator and many latest digital designing tools. Moreover, my confidence level has gone up and I now know how to work in a team.

What you like here?

This place is full of activity. The charm of working for a leader in hospitality technology space is no doubt amazing. I feel good when I get a word of appreciation from senior management for my work. It boosts up my morale. The best part of working for IDS Next is that your work gets recognized.

Hotel Online Reputation Management Solution in Middle East

For hotels across Middle East, it is very important to maintain a positive online brand value/reputation in order to attract both repeat and new guests. For hotels, preserving a strong online reputation has become an operational necessity as today’s tech-savvy traveler reads others' opinion before selecting a hotel. Online reviews written by guests (both positive and negative) have the potential to influence a buyer’s booking decisions as a majority of travelers are using the Internet to plan and book their travel. In this scenario, a smart and intuitive hotel online reputation management solution in Middle East can help hoteliers to the maximum extent. 

Today, hundreds of websites and apps help a guest to read and write reviews for hotels. With the increase in the number of mobile devices, a guest can even write and share his/her review at anytime from anywhere in the world. While good reviews definitely help a hotel attracting more guests, bad reviews can have very adverse impact on a hotel’s brand and business. Read More

By: Dinkey Elayadath

Published in: IDS Next Middle East

Integrated 360 Degree Hospitality Solution Vendor in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is famous for its pristine beaches, romantic landscapes, lush green forests and many natural splendors. This tiny island nation’s warm hospitality has its own charm that attracts tourists from around the globe. As the country is a globally renowned tourism destination, it also has become a choicest spot for hotel development. In order to make smart business while beating the competition, hotels should adopt smart hospitality technology solutions. And for this, they need to look for a 360 degree hospitality solution vendor in Sri Lanka. 

In today’s highly competitive and complex hotel business environment, a hotel’s technological needs do not end with adoption of hotel software or hotel property management software. Implementation of a smart Hotel PMS System is a must in order to automate operations across various hotel departments. But, today’s smart hotelier expects more from the software. Apart from streamlining daily operations, a new age integrated hotel software should help hoteliers in many other things including attracting guests to boost occupancy and revenues. This has led IDS Next to offer a smart 360 degree hospitality solution to hotels across Sri Lanka. Read More

By: Nandika Udupihilla

Published in: IDS Next Sri Lanka

Smart Hospitality Software in Rajasthan to Improve Guest Experience

Rajasthan is a leading tourism destination in the country. Its magnificent tradition, colorful and vibrant ethnicity are special attractions for both, domestic and foreign tourists.The state’s exotic tourism products including old era forts and foods offer enormous potential of growth to the hotel industry. Rajasthan is famous as a prominent leisure destination and that’s why hotels across the state need to offer top class experience to their patrons. In order to offer truly Rajasthani hospitality to their guests, hoteliers need to adopt smart hospitality software in Rajasthan.

The state of tourism and hotel industry

Large numbers of domestic and international tourists visit Rajasthan every year. The state expects a huge growth in tourist arrival in coming years. The state estimates that the foreign tourists’ number will go up to 2.5 million by 2018 from the current 1.5 million. Similarly, domestic tourists number is anticipated to grow from 33 million to 50 million by 2018.Read More

By: Subhadip Mukherji

Published in: IDS Next 

 

Looking for Globally Reliable Hotel Property Management Software Vendor in Goa

Goa has everything in abundance to attract tourists from all over the world. Tourism is thriving and it also has a very positive impact on the hotel industry. Due to Goa’s reputation as a globally acknowledged tourist destination, the state has become a favorite spot for many global hotel brands. They look at Goa as a hot-spot to come up with luxury and upscale properties to serve today’s growing number travelers. At the same time, they also need to make sure that they have the right technology platform to do smart business in the long run. Hoteliers should look for a reliable hotel property management software vendor in Goa in order to meet all their technological needs.

According to Goa’s tourism department, the state had a total of 63 star category hotels with 5362 rooms by September, 2014. A recent HVS Research says that, the state will have around 2291 more star category hotel rooms by 2018/2019. Read More

By: Myra Allen

Published in: IDS Next 

Does Your Technology Partner Help You Leverage the Hotel Software to the Maximum Level?

For hotels across size, segment, location and offerings, finding a hotel software is a not a difficult task. The market today is inundated with several hospitality technology providers and each one of them claims to offer the best in the class software. But, as an hotelier, how will you make sure that your technology partner or hotel software vendor is going to help you leverage the software to the most advantageous level? After all, you would want the hotel management software to deliver most business critical flexibility at all levels of your hotel operations.

Review IDS Next’s Unmatched Customer Engagement

At IDS Next, excellent customer engagement matters a lot to us. We understand that fruitful engagement creates happy customer who are most likely to stay with the company. They even become your top brand ambassadors. That’s why; we have been serving our 4000 plus hotel management software users through our Customer Engagement Group (CEG). Read More

By: Varadharajan Athmanathan 

Published in: IDS Next 

Looking for a Reputed Hotel Software Provider in Thailand?

Thailand’s contribution towards Southeast Asia’s thriving tourism is certainly quite encouraging. The country is a famed tourism destination for leisure travelers from across the globe. The heavy tourist influx has provided the much needed platform for the hotel industry to grow over last couple of years and the future looks promising, too. However, for hoteliers across Thailand, it could be a quite a task to sustain in the long run without adopting a proper hotel management software. Hence, it is advisable for them to look for a reputed hotel software provider in Thailand.

The growth of hotel industry in Thailand

Thailand’s prosperous hotel industry is centered on key tourism destinations including Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya. According to Jones Lang LaSalle, around 1,103 hotel rooms where added in Bangkok in 2014. The city is expected to add 4,000 more hotel rooms to its existing inventory in 2015. Additionally, Bangkok will have around 3,700 more rooms between 2016 to 2018. Read More

By: Sandeep Menon

Published in: IDS Next ASEAN

In Limelight

Duryodhan Jena is one of the oldest members of IDS Next’s Technical Support Centre. This MSc – IT grad from Odisha has been a part of IDS Next’s growing employee base since 2007. “Over these years at IDS Next, I now know how to make clients happy,” Duryodhan says

What do you do at IDS Next?

Customer service through timely tech support is one of the critical tasks for our line of business. As an Associate Team Manager at IDS Next’s 24/7 TSC, it is my foremost responsibility to ensure that my team delivers 100% when it comes to offer technical assistance to our valued clients. I take a look at the list of team-wise backlogs the moment I walk into the office. This gives me a clear idea about how to plan my day. Then, I review the individual closure report of my team members. 

My team members escalate some critical issues to me and it becomes my sole obligation to close the same at the earliest. At times, when I face issues related to a bug in programming, I have to forward the same to the development team. But, there is one thing I am quite sure that my team is known for escalating minimum number cases to the development team. This is a great achievement. 

How did IDS Next happened and how is your journey here so far? 

I have a total work experience of almost 14 years and out of that I have spent 8 years at IDS Next. I came to this company in 2007 as a support associate. Initially, I used to visit clients’ sites along with implementation team as we did not have 24/7 TSC at that point of time. I used to provide on-site tech assistance to our clients. 

Between 2007 to 2011/2012, my work took me to places including all over Karnataka, Kerala and Maharashtra. Even, I had traveled to Africa and Dubai for on-site project implementation. Working here has helped me to understand clients’ requirements and how to make them happy by fixing things when they go wrong.

What have you learned here? 

Bill Gates once said, “Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning”. And to me, this line holds enormous sense. Every time I talk to unhappy clients about their business critical issues, I get new chance to understand our products with a fresh perspective. My stint here has helped me to know our vast range of products. I can say that I am now an expert on all our FortuneNEXT 6i Suite of Hotel Management Software. Constant interaction with clients has also helped me polish my communications skill. 

Duryodhan’s work has earned him recognition, too. He has seen promotions on couple of occasions. Plus, he has been awarded twice by the senior management for his contribution towards client support. Most recently, he was conferred with ‘Outstanding Achievement Award’ during IDS Next’s 28 Anniversary Celebration.