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Operations

Yield Management

A pricing strategy that adjusts room rates based on predicted demand to maximize total revenue.

Definition

Yield management is a strategic pricing approach used by hotels to sell the right room to the right guest at the right time and the right price. Originating from the airline industry, it uses historical data, market trends, and demand forecasts to dynamically adjust pricing. The goal is to maximize revenue per available room by raising rates during high-demand periods and offering competitive pricing during low-demand periods, ensuring optimal occupancy and revenue balance.

Why It Matters

Without yield management, hotels leave significant revenue on the table. Charging a flat rate year-round means underpricing during peak periods and overpricing during slow periods. Effective yield management can increase total revenue by 5-15% without adding a single room. It allows hotels to capture maximum willingness to pay during high demand while filling rooms that would otherwise sit empty during low demand.

Best Practices

  • 1Analyze historical booking data to identify demand patterns and seasonality
  • 2Monitor competitor pricing and local events to anticipate demand shifts
  • 3Segment your market and create targeted rate strategies for each segment
  • 4Use a revenue management system (RMS) to automate pricing decisions
  • 5Review and adjust your strategy regularly based on performance data

How Opally Helps

Opally supports yield management by providing real-time guest communication that reflects current pricing and availability. When rates change dynamically, Opally pulls live data from your PMS to ensure guests always receive accurate pricing information via chat, email, or voice - reducing booking friction during high-demand periods.

See Also

Dynamic PricingRevenue ManagementADRDemand ForecastingRevPAROccupancy Rate

Explore More Terms

What is Yield Management? Hotel Yield Management Explained