Maximise visibility by connecting to your favourite booking channels with hotel channel manager software

A Channel Manager (also known as Channel Management Software or OTA Manager) is a tool that helps hotels, B&Bs, and other accommodations centrally manage availability, rates, and other key room details.

How does it work?

• Whenever a room is booked or a rate is updated, all connected channels (such as Booking.com, Expedia, or Airbnb) are updated immediately.
• Prevents overbookings by keeping inventory in sync across platforms.
• Ensures your rates and availability are always up-to-date.

For example, using RoomRaccoon is simple:

• The platform automatically synchronises your rates and availability with every connected sales channel.
• No manual updates required—everything is handled in real-time.

Because competition in the online travel market is fierce, it’s crucial to be visible on multiple platforms. A Channel Manager automates the process of updating prices and availability across various sites, helping you:

• Increase bookings by boosting your visibility.
• Prevent overbookings, as all channels are updated in real time.
• Save time and effort by eliminating manual updates on each channel.

Using Channel Management Software (also referred to as Hotel Distribution Software) provides several key advantages:

• Time savings: Update your availability and rates across all channels at once.
• Fewer errors: Real-time synchronisation prevents duplicate bookings and outdated rates.
• Increased visibility: Connecting to multiple OTAs (both large and niche) helps you reach more potential guests.
• Higher revenue: With accurate pricing and a wider reach, you’ll generally see more bookings.
• Centralised data insights: A single, clear dashboard for quick and informed decisions.

Think of a Channel Manager like the conductor of an orchestra—ensuring all channels work in harmony, avoiding chaos and double bookings.

This varies by provider, but it’s wise to choose a Channel Manager that offers connections to a wide range of OTAs and other distribution channels.

RoomRaccoon, for example, connects with over 200 channels, including:

• Major OTAs such as Booking.com, Expedia, Airbnb, and Vrbo.
• Niche markets like Mr & Mrs Smith, SafariNow, and Ctrip.
• Global Distribution Systems (GDS) such as Amadeus, Pegasus, and HyperGuest.
• Metasearch engines like Google and TripAdvisor.

This approach expands your reach and increases your chances of receiving more bookings.

Your Channel Manager and Property Management System (PMS) must communicate seamlessly. This ensures that every reservation and rate change is automatically updated in both systems.

With RoomRaccoon, everything is connected in one platform:

• Channel Manager, PMS, Booking Engine, and Payment Processing are fully integrated.
• No need to manage multiple separate connections, significantly reducing errors.
• Support and training for seamless integration setup and data migration.

This all-in-one approach makes hotel management easier, more efficient, and hassle-free.

There are various features that can help you manage your online distribution effectively:

• Wide channel selection: The more OTAs, niche markets, and GDS platforms you can connect to, the bigger your reach.
• Real-time synchronisation: Minimises the risk of double bookings and unwanted vacancies.
• Bidirectional integration: Ensure the system not only sends data out but also receives bookings back into your PMS.
• Easy-to-use dashboard: One central place to manage rates, availability, and restrictions.
• Automation: Look for automated rate rules, promotions, and packages.
• Security and compliance: Check whether the software meets relevant data protection regulations.
• Customer support and training: Good support is essential during implementation.
• Costs and contract terms: Find out whether there are fixed subscription fees or if commissions are charged per booking.

Imagine the Channel Manager as a smart assistant that monitors your room inventory around the clock.

How does it work?

• When a guest books a room on an OTA (e.g., Booking.com), the Channel Manager instantly sends the reservation details to your PMS.
• At the same time, it updates your availability across all other connected sites.
• This prevents duplicate bookings and ensures that your calendar is always up to date.
• You no longer need to manually check if rooms are still available.

The cost depends on the provider and the features you choose. At RoomRaccoon, for example, you pay a fixed monthly or annual fee, with a 20% discount for an annual subscription.

No hidden costs—just full access to everything:

• No additional commissions per booking.
• Immediate access to the entire platform:
• PMS – Manage operations efficiently.
• Channel Manager – Keep all listings in sync.
• Booking Engine – Drive direct reservations.
• Know exactly what you're paying for—no financial surprises.

Yes, most Channel Management Systems (such as RoomRaccoon) allow you to:

• Create special offers, like last-minute deals.
• Combine packages with extras such as a welcome drink or breakfast.
• Sync discounts and promotions across all connected OTAs.

This is especially useful if you want to set different pricing or packages for various target groups or seasons.

• Compare providers: Look at features, integrations, customer support, and pricing models.
• Request a demo: Get a guided tour of the platform to see if it’s user-friendly.
• Implement and integrate: Ensure a smooth connection with your PMS or reservation system.
• Train your team: Take advantage of implementation sessions and manuals so everyone knows how to use it.
• Monitor and optimise: Keep an eye on reports and adjust where necessary (e.g., pricing or strategy).

In short: A Channel Manager (Channel Management Software / OTA Manager) is an indispensable tool for any hotel or B&B looking to sell rooms on multiple platforms without chaos.

It provides real-time updates of rates and availability, reduces errors, and broadens your reach. With a solution like RoomRaccoon, you have everything in one place: a PMS, Channel Manager, and Booking Engine, enabling you to work efficiently and generate more revenue.

Want to learn more about how RoomRaccoon can help with channel management? Request a free demo.