Feature Descriptions
Property Management System (PMS)
Interface
The PMS is a computer with a terminal used to input information. The computer is running software that interacts with the GuestWorks server. The PMS termi- nal is usually located at the front desk with the attendant console. This is where the clerk does the following:
■Checks a guest in and out
■Registers the guest’s name
■Establishes any coverage criteria the guest requests
■Sets any controlled restrictions for the guest’s phone
■Takes messages and turns on the message waiting lamp on the guest phone
■Changes or swaps the guest room
■Checks housekeeping status and room occupancy
■Verifies that the link to the PMS is operational.
The PMS and the communications server interact with each other to communicate all of this information. As information changes in the server, the PMS is updated; as information changes in the PMS, the server is updated. These changes are communicated in an ASCII format called a FRAME.
A PMS has three data link protocols: Normal Mode, Transparent Mode, and ASCII Mode. The GuestWorks server can operate in any of these modes. Normal Mode supports the following transactions:
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■Message waiting activation/deactivation
■Housekeeping status
■Controlled restriction
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