Agilysys, Inc. (Nasdaq: AGYS), a leading provider of innovative information technology and hospitality software and services, and b4, a developer and provider of cloud-based hospitality software solutions, today announced a partnership agreement whereby Agilysys will offer the b4 booking engine to its Visual One™ PMS customers.The b4 booking engine is a highly interactive online booking solution that drives conversions and provides superior property merchandising. The solution has certified two-way interfaces with the Visual One PMS, which means crucial information — such as room rates, inventory availability and guest profile data — is automatically exchanged in real time between the two solutions, speeding confirmation times and ensuring that guests have an accurate view of booking options. Designed specifically for independent hotels, the solution is fully customizable to match the look and feel of a property’s website, so that a consistent brand image is presented to potential guests. Easy-to-navigate screens and availability calendars enable users to view room types and rates, and guests have the option of purchasing pre-built packages or selecting specific components to create dynamic packages.
The b4 booking engine also up-sells users to better room types and displays value-added items that enhance the guest experience, such as wine, flowers and local attractions. Personalized email communications with guests, both pre and post-stay, encourage loyalty and repeat visits. Add-on modules allow for group deposits, thereby reducing operator expense. And, unlike most booking engine vendors, which typically require hotels to pay on a per-reservation commission basis, b4 features an affordable flat monthly subscription model.
“Our partnership with b4 enables us to provide our customers with a market-leading booking engine that boosts revenue and enhances guest satisfaction,” said Jim Dennedy, president and chief executive officer of Agilysys. “The power of the Visual One PMS combined with the b4 booking engine will allow customers to improve conversion rates, increase revenue per stay and drive incremental revenue from the sale of value-added products. This innovative technology will also help hotel operators create more lasting connections with guests that build loyalty and ensure repeat visits.”
“In the highly competitive lodging industry, a professional and reliable web booking engine is a vital component for success,” said Saar Fabrikant, president and chief executive officer of b4. “Our booking engine fully integrates with the Visual One PMS, increasing efficiency for customers and maximizing convenience for guests, be it on a computer or a mobile-friendly basis. We are excited about our partnership with Agilysys and our role in helping independent hotels realize their full potential.”
About Agilysys
Agilysys is a leading developer and marketer of proprietary enterprise software, services and solutions to the hospitality industry. The company specializes in market-leading point-of-sale, property management, inventory and procurement, workforce management, analytics, document management, and mobile and wireless solutions that are designed to streamline operations, improve efficiency and enhance the guest experience. Agilysys serves four major market sectors: Gaming, both corporate and tribal; Hotels, Resorts and Cruise; Foodservice Management; and Restaurants, Universities, Stadia and Healthcare. Agilysys operates extensively throughout North America, Europe and Asia, with corporate services located in Alpharetta, GA, and offices in Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia. For more information, visit www.agilysys.com.