TECHNOLOGY
The Spectator Hotel , a Charlestowne Hotels property located in Charleston , S . C .
Max Spangler , director of technology , Charlestowne Hotels
“ This technology ensures that our team is adequately always staffed and reduces the time spent on administrative tasks related to scheduling . We leverage data analytics tools and reporting software to gain insights into guest preferences , team performance and operational efficiencies . This information allows us to make informed decisions and adjust strategies , ensuring that our team operates at an optimal level ,” said Spangler .
By utilizing these technologies , Charlestowne Hotels can effectively reduce the workload of its employees and
improve team efficiencies , resulting in a more productive work environment and an enhanced guest experience .
REDUCING LABOR COSTS These technological advancements also help bring down labor costs by automating schedules , which balance staff availability , overtime , labor rules , occupancy and service levels .
Unifocus , for eample , can save a minimum of 5 % on labor costs , Kelly said . “ Hoteliers see significant savings in operations costs while protecting the level of guest service expected from their hotel segment and brand ,” she said .
Unifocus ’ technology also helps to lower labor costs by creating a balanced work environment , which provides information and flexibility to support workers ’ personal lives , therefore reducing worker turnover . By reducing turnover , hotels can focus less time and resources on training new workers .
“ Instead , these operators can focus on building a sustainable workforce staffed by hospitality leaders ,” Kelly said .
Clients of Unifocus usually earn back money from investing in labor management solutions within three to six months , she said .
NEW OPPORTUNITIES Many hotels operate using dated technology or require significant workarounds , since most of the technology wasn ’ t designed for the hospitality industry in the first place , said Kelly .
Unifocus is working to consolidate the technology supporting back-of-house operations onto a single platform , creating a hub for scheduling , task management , employee engagement and more .
“ We believe managing these elements under one app is a better way to streamline data management and improve operational efficiency and it is our goal to empower hoteliers by improving their relationship with technology ,” Kelly said .
Karie Kelly , VP of product management , Unifocus
56 hotelsmag . com May 2023