Hoteliers often ask me what the benefits are of incorporating a CMS (Content Management System) into a website redesign. For those unfamiliar, a CMS is an administrative section to the back-end of your website that lets you modify what appears on the front-end without having to know any coding languages. It’s an extra cost, but what you get in return is the flexibility to manage day-by-day happenings and keep your site in tempo with the rapidity of the Internet.  Still not convinced?  Here are five specific reasons why you should have a CMS.

1. Blog
A web log portion to your website lets you readily update your guests, both past and future, about recent happenings and neighbourhood hotspots.  It’s entertainment, and a good motive for customers to frequent your website more often than they are right now.  The content is easily shareable via your social media outlets to further heighten content generation and awareness through those channels.  As well, writing with keywords in mind will do wonders for your SEO.

2. Promotions
With total control over this portion of your website, you can better promote packages and specials in as timely a manner as possible.  Not having this control means that every modification becomes an addition both in lost time and money.  Plus, last minute changes are a breeze, letting you can stay ahead of the competition.

3. Calendar of Events
The goal is to have a quick list of everything happening at your hotel in the near future so guests are well informed and can plan accordingly.  Along the same lines as your blog, a CMS lets you take control of upcoming events so no intermediary is required for last minute updates.

4. Keeping Your Site Current and Up-to-Date
With a bit more complex tinkering, a CMS can be rigged to manage any other portion of your website, including accommodations, dining or weddings.  As business needs evolve, so may the needs for the types and quantity of information on your website.  Having the flexibility to complete near instantaneous alterations is a must for proper business strategy. Remember, Google and other search engines pay particular attention to the immediacy of site updates.

5. Getting Staff Involved
The real beauty of a CMS is that it’s easy for any staff member to update the website.  The systems these days are very intuitive and necessitate very little training for tech-savvy individuals.  If everyone knows how to use your CMS, it ensures that content is posted in as timely a manner as possible.  As well, you posts will be far more authentic than if everything is relayed through the IT team or your agencies.

(Article by Larry Mogelonsky, published on eHotelieron February 9, 2012)