Since the 2004 merger between specialist midrange enterprise resource planning (ERP) software companies Scala and Epicor, the combined entity has invested considerable resources into product development and optimisation. One of the resulting solutions from this collaboration is the iScala for Hospitality ERP suite.
According to Tiaan Grobbelaar, general manager of Epicor Scala Africa, the company's products are proven around the world and in Africa, where many large hotel chains rely on the iScala platform to manage their operations.
"Companies around the world are discovering that integrating islands of information releases substantial value. Nowhere does this value have more impact than in the hospitality industry, where timeous, accurate information can be make the difference between a delighted guest, or an irate customer," he says.
Grobbelaar explains that iScala Hospitality is an integrated management information solution (IMIS) developed to meet the unique needs of this industry.
"Typically, hotel chains have operations that are located around the globe. The challenges of this situation demand an e-business solution that can integrate disparate information sources into a centralised location, allowing for accurate and efficient records to be maintained," he says.
Traditionally, islands of automation, made up of sundry software programs that can't communicate with each other, have typified such environments. "Scala's integrated, collaborative technology improves three critical areas of financial operations for hoteliers: management efficiency, resource allocation and bottom line performance," explains Grobbelaar.
This is achieved through the installation and integration of back-office systems. "IMIS replaces manual data entry, duplicated processes and delayed reporting. It ushers in fluid financial planning, data exchanging and information reporting, resulting in improved efficiency through simplifying and accelerating record entry, reconciliation and account maintenance," he continues.
Within the revenue cycle, Scala Hospitality's IMIS provides users with a multifunctional accounting system. The General Ledger offers flexible account structures, drill-down and reporting tools that clarify and enhance results, while Accounts Receivable converts receivables into usable capital quickly and provides controls to assist with reducing the number of debtor days.
The iScala Hospitality Systems Interface automates data transfers from the Property Management System (PMS) and Point of Sales (POS) to the back-office accounting systems, removing the need for manual re-keying of data. It supports the most common POS systems including Opera, Fidelio, Maxial, Profit Manager and others.
Its Requisition Management module allows stock requisitions to be managed simply and seamlessly, whether stock is located internally in a store or must be ordered from an outside supplier, while iScala for Hospitality adds a further 10 bank interfaces for ease of financial management.
"IMIS is a fully-integrated solution for financial management, inventory management, reporting and budgeting," says Grobbelaar.
He notes that with over 300 sites in 46 countries around the world, customers of Epicor Scala can be confident that they are using the benchmark in hospitality management software - those customers include internationally recognised leading hotel groups such as Starwood, Marriott, Sheraton, Hyatt, Nikko, Four Seasons and Independent Hotel.
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