Travelers are adopting mobile devices at a staggering pace. Mobile is here and it is time to jump on the bandwagon if you are not already there. That does not mean that each property needs its own app. For most properties, the time and expense simply can‰’t be justified. However, it does mean that you need to provide travelers with a method to locate you through a variety of mobile apps. Given that most mobile travelers book rooms for the same day, mobile represents an excellent opportunity to fill empty hotel rooms.

It is also important to not solely rely on the OTA‰s for mobile distribution. With expensive commission rates, hoteliers should look for options to diversify their mobile (and online platforms for that matter) to include pricing models that enhance both occupancy and RevPAR. Lower cost fixed rate models as well as performance-based programs that offer either a reduced commission or an affordable fixed transaction cost can help capture more travelers at a more profitable rate.