Channel manager

A channel manager is a digital tool that helps distribute hotel inventory through multiple channels such as GDSs, OTAs, wholesalers, direct booking platforms, and metasearch engines.

Channel managers synchronize prices and availability across distribution channels, instantly updating data once a reservation is made. Keeping this information consistent and up to date helps avoid overbooking and maintain rate parity.

A channel manager can be a standalone solution or part of a hotel’s property management system (PMS) or central reservation system (CRS). Some of the popular channel manager software vendors are SiteMinder, Cloudbeds, STAAH, eZee, and others.