You're facing peak check-in/check-out times. How can you avoid scheduling conflicts?

- Analyse Peak Times: Use historical data to identify peak check-in/check-out times. - Flexible Scheduling: Implement staggered shifts to ensure adequate coverage during peak periods. - Cross-Train Staff: Train employees in multiple roles to quickly adapt and fill in where needed. - Use Scheduling Software: Employ software to automate and optimize staff schedules based on real-time needs. - Monitor and Adjust: Continuously review staffing levels and make adjustments as necessary to avoid conflicts and ensure smooth operations.

To avoid scheduling conflicts during peak check-in/check-out times, implement a well-structured shift plan. Stagger staff shifts to ensure adequate coverage during busy periods. Use scheduling software to manage and forecast peak times accurately. Cross-train employees so they can assist in various roles as needed. Communicate the schedule clearly to all staff and encourage flexibility. Regularly review and adjust the plan based on real-time data and feedback. Ensuring smooth coordination and clear communication will help you manage peak times efficiently and avoid conflicts.

To reduce conflicts during peak check-in and check-out times using tech tools like PMS and channel managers: 1. Automate processes: Use a PMS that supports automated check-ins and check-outs. 2. Real-time updates: Ensure your PMS and channel manager provide real-time room availability updates. 3. Guest messaging: Send messages to guests about check-in/check-out times. 4. Dynamic pricing: Adjust room rates based on demand using your channel manager. 5. Flexible times: Offer and manage flexible check-in/check-out times.

Implementing a cloud-based Property Management System (PMS) with a contactless check-in/out feature will help reduce conflicts by allowing guests to manage their check-in and check-out processes independently. With the help of contactless feature, guests will not only able to upload documents for verification purpose but also get most of information such as receiving welcome message having room number, accessing digital room keys on their mobile devices, and at the time of check-out, he can get online invoices, and do payment securely. This will result in shorter check-in/out lines.

- Implement Real-Time Messaging: Use apps or platforms that allow instant communication among staff. - Clear Shift Instructions: Provide detailed shift plans and updates through emails or a central digital hub. - Regular Meetings: Conduct briefings before peak times to ensure everyone is aware of their roles and any changes. - Feedback Mechanism: Establish a system for staff to report issues or conflicts quickly. - Accessible Schedules: Ensure all staff can easily access and review their schedules online to stay informed.

- Advance Communication: Send pre-arrival emails or messages encouraging early check-in or offering express check-out options to manage peak times effectively. - Technology Solutions: Implement mobile check-in/out options and self-service kiosks to reduce queues and streamline the process. - Staff Training: Ensure front desk staff are trained to handle high volumes efficiently, providing personalised service and minimising wait times. - Flexible Policies: Offer flexible check-in/check-out times where feasible to accommodate varying guest needs and spread arrivals/departures. - Post-Stay Feedback: Collect feedback on check-in/check-out experiences to continually improve processes and address any bottlenecks promptly.

- Forecast Demand: Analyze historical data to predict peak times and plan staffing needs accordingly. - Advance Scheduling: Create and share schedules well in advance to allow for adjustments and conflict resolution. - Buffer Times: Include buffer periods between shifts to accommodate unforeseen delays or overlap. - Cross-Training: Train staff in multiple roles to increase flexibility and coverage during busy periods. - Contingency Plans: Develop backup plans for unexpected absences or increased demand to ensure smooth operations.

Check in online before arrival. This not only helps dodge schedule conflicts but, more importantly, ensures your guests have a seamless and delightful experience.

Encourage direct, online bookings via your website and take payment in advance. With direct bookings you’ll have their email address and can offer online check in to make it a smoother experience on arrival and departure. If you have bookings through the OTA’s tools like Duve can help automation with these guests.