If your New Year’s Resolution is to finally change your resort software or even invest in timeshare-specific resort software for the first time, then you’ll have plenty of questions.

In this handy guide, the Merlin Software team has put together some of the most frequently asked questions about software for your resort, and then we look at what potential providers should offer you.

Q: What is resort software? A: It is a type of software that is used to manage various aspects of a resort, such as reservations, guest management, room and inventory management, billing and accounting, and more.

Q: How does resort software help with reservations? A: It typically includes a reservation module that allows staff to easily book guest rooms and manage and track reservations. This can include features such as real-time availability information, the ability to create custom rates and packages, and integration with online booking systems.

Q: How does resort software help with guest management? A: It usually includes a guest management module that allows staff to store and retrieve information about guests, such as their contact information, past stays, and preferences. This information can then personalize guest experiences and improve customer service.

Q: How does resort software help with room and inventory management? A: It generally includes a room and inventory management module that allows staff to track the status of rooms, such as which are occupied, which are being cleaned, and which are available for booking. This information can be used to optimize room assignments and improve housekeeping and maintenance efficiency.

Q: How does resort software help with billing and accounting? A: It should include a billing and accounting module that allows staff to create and process invoices, track payments, and generate reports on financial performance. This information can be used to optimize pricing strategies, improve revenue management, and make informed business decisions.

Q: How does resort software help in customer service? A: It is designed to help track guest history and preferences and maintain their contact information. The front desk can use this information to provide more personalized service to the guest, make informed decisions and help improve customer satisfaction.

Please note that each software may have different features and functionality depending on the vendor, so it is always best to research and compare other options to find the software that best fits the needs of your resort.

A timeshare resort may have specific software requirements depending on its size, operations and the features it provides to its members and owners. When it comes to choosing software, you need to make sure it provides the following functionality: 

1. Reservations and occupancy management: Software that allows the resort to manage and track reservations, including real-time availability, the ability to create custom rates and packages, and integration with online booking systems.
2. Owner and member management: Software that allows the resort to store and retrieve information about owners and members, such as contact information, ownership details, and billing and accounting information.
3. Financial and accounting functionality: Software that allows the resort to manage its financial operations, including generating financial reports, tracking payments, and generating invoices.
4. Maintenance and housekeeping scheduling: Software allows the resort to manage maintenance and housekeeping tasks, track the status of rooms and units, and create staff schedules.
5. Communication and marketing tools: Software that includes email and SMS marketing tools and the ability to customize and target messaging to owners and members.
6. Reporting and Analytics: Software that allows the resort to generate reports and analytics on key performance indicators, such as occupancy, revenue, and member/owner engagement.
7. Document Management: Software that allows storing, managing and retrieving all important resort documents and sharing with staff, owner and members if needed.
8. Mobile and web accessibility: Software that is accessible through a web browser and web apps allows the staff and members to access their data and information on the go.
9. Integration capabilities: Software that can integrate with other systems the resort might be using, such as CRM, point of sale, and website.
10. Security: Software that is compliant with GDPR and banking and credit card regulations and focuses on data security at every step.

Keep in mind that these are just examples and the specific software requirements for your timeshare resort may vary based on the size, operations and services you provide. It’s always good to sit down and write your specific requirements and then research software options that meet those needs.

It can also help if you spoke with other timeshare resorts that have implemented similar software to learn about their experiences and understand the benefits and drawbacks of different options.

If you need assistance preparing this document and determining your resort’s needs, contact Mark Thomas at markt@quickmerlin.com or complete the contact form. The Merlin team will be happy to work and support you as you consider your specific requirements and research your options.

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