Barefoot Technologies Blog- Vacation Rental Industry News

8 Important Software Features To Look For

Posted by Adam Zippin on Oct 4, 2012 8:11:00 AM

     A recent article shed some light on a developing trend in today’s world.  Google has recently surpassed Microsoft as the second largest technology company.  Now this may not appear to be incredibly relevant to your business, but it speaks wonders for the trends that your clients will follow.  Google rose to a value of around $249.9 billion while Microsoft fell to $247.2 billion dollars. 



     So what does this mean for your business?  It is pretty simple, people are moving away from software and are relying much more heavily on the internet and other cloud options.  We couldn’t help but mention that there are still companies out there operating on in-house reservation hardware. 





     With more and more people moving to cloud and internet, what can your software provide that can cater to an internet based crowd?  It is important to be able to change and adapt with your client base, and in the internet world of today, those changes can happen at the drop of a dime.  So what can you do to make sure that you are able to keep up with?



Computer Screen Shot



1)      Use a reservation system that is browser based- This will allow you the ability to work from alternate locations



2)      Have a live feed to your website- Many software platforms do not have an actual live feed so your booking system can double book a property.  Make sure there is a live feed to make the end user experience the best it can be.



3)      Make sure your system has social media tools- The average Facebook user has around 200 friends, if each of your owners can link their home to Facebook you have multiplied your reach by around 200%                             



                                                   Melvin Schlubman



4)      Automate online replies- Automating response e-mails can help you beat the curve when replying to prospects.  Online searchers are looking for fast results, make sure your system can deliver.



5)      Proper backup- Browser based systems offer a secure hosting platform.  Make sure your platform is hosted by a professional hosting service that will keep your business running.



6)      Use your social media tools- Its great if you have them but be sure to use them to their fullest potential. 



7)      Adapt- Business is not run the way it was a decade ago.  The internet is changing everything we do and you need to make sure your business has the ability to adapt when the next big thing rolls around



8)       Maximize your ROI- With a software system, you get what you pay for.  For a small business, an in-expensive system may be just what you need.  Make sure that you are willing to put some money into your own business.  If you won’t, how can you expect the customer to?



     Today’s business world is moving faster than ever before.  Are you doing your best to keep your business moving?  Follow these tips when looking for software to make sure that you have the best fit for your company, and your clients.  Remember, what you like as a worker may not be the favorite choice of your customers.  Finding the balance is key and these 8 steps will help you get there.


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