Many hotels confidently claim that they uphold tradition. However, this statement applies to the Hotel Hirsch 1783 on Lake Constance like no other. Because, as the name suggests, the hotel has been welcoming guests for over 340 years – in family hands.
When Peter Schöllhorn took over the charming inn from his parents in 2004, he and his family lovingly renovated it. Today, 25 stylishly furnished rooms await guests, delivering a mix of traditional country house and modern comfort.
SiteMinder has been making everyday life easier at the Hirsch 1783 for six years – but since Peter Schöllhorn linked 3RPMS to SiteMinder’s channel manager, day-to-day operations have fundamentally changed. We spoke to him about his work and how SiteMinder and 3RPMS have even improved his quality of life.
A flexible and intuitive platform
When Peter was looking for a new channel manager, his nerves were frayed. His previous provider was not flexible and there were constant disruptions. He looked for an alternative online and came across SiteMinder during his research. He decided to change providers and was quickly convinced by the services.
“The first thing that convinced me was the flexibility of the channel manager. I was suddenly able to easily set different rates and restrictions – for example for arrival and departure – and communicate them across all portals.”
“I also have a huge selection of channels, all of which are included in the price. Here the price to performance ratio is just right. And that is very important for us. After all, we are a seasonal business,” explained Peter, who closes the hotel in the winter months.
While mentioning that he had no regret upon switching to SiteMinder, Peter also praised the onboarding process.
“I can generally get to grips with new things very quickly and that was no different with SiteMinder. The program is logically and intuitively structured. And if I do have any questions, my concerns are resolved quickly and easily by support,” Peter said.
Change your business and your life What if you could boost your hotel's revenue while also reducing your workload and giving yourself more free time? Our smart hotel platform helps you do exactly that.
With 3RPMS and SiteMinder, the office is in your pocket
Operations have not always run as smoothly as they do today. Peter runs the small hotel on Lake Constance together with his wife Yvonne. They don’t have staff who specifically look after the reception and the guests’ concerns. Instead, Peter often had to juggle several roles at the same time: chef, receptionist, service and caretaker. He hardly ever had any free time.
“The work was so time-consuming that I almost dreaded the summer season. While everyone else was getting a tan in the summer, I was as white as a sheet because I didn’t get time to go outside,” Peter recalled.
He knew he had to change something about his processes and initially decided to stop the restaurant business in the evenings so that he could look after his guests better. He then contacted SiteMinder support to ask if they could recommend a suitable hotel software.
“With my previous provider, price maintenance was a real nightmare because it was a database system. I always had to enter the prices twice and sometimes it was a real mess. I also had to have access to my computer at all times when a reservation came in – and I don’t have anyone at the reception,” Peter said.
SiteMinder recommended 3RPMS, which turned his hotel business upside down.
“My day-to-day business has changed fundamentally,” he enthused.
“The integration between SiteMinder and 3RPMS works smoothly. Bookings and cancellations are processed immediately and automatically. I don’t have to do any additional work. On top of that, I only have to enter the base price once into 3RPMS and it is transferred directly to the channel manager,” explained Peter.
An extreme time saver and no more overbookings
It was the simple and flexible handling that ultimately convinced Peter about SiteMinder and 3RPMS. Since he switched his systems, he and his wife Yvonne finally have more time again.
“I can use both SiteMinder and 3RPMS on my smartphone or tablet and no longer need a bulky PC. Today I can even ride a bike or sit by our beautiful lake with a glass of wine and still sell rooms. I basically always have my office in my pocket. Now I really enjoy my work again!”
It’s no wonder that Peter now recommends that other hoteliers switch to SiteMinder and 3RPMS.
“I’m friends with some hoteliers and they keep complaining to me that they’re experiencing overbooking. I haven’t had that problem for years!” And he continued: “I no longer have to keep an eye on countless portals, but can always rely on all rooms being handled – even while I’m at trade fairs.”
Thank you very much for this great feedback Peter! We are pleased that both SiteMinder and 3RPMS have such a positive influence on your everyday life. We wish you and your wife Yvonne all the best and much success for the future.