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Technology
36 terms
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
A
AI Concierge
An AI-powered virtual assistant that answers guest questions and handles common requests automatically, around the clock, through chat or messaging.
AI Pricing
The use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to automatically optimize vacation rental nightly rates in real time.
API Connection
An API connection is a technical integration that allows two software platforms to exchange data automatically, enabling vacation rental tools to work together in real time.
Automated Messages
Pre-written guest communications that are automatically sent based on booking events or scheduled timing.
Automated Review Response
Automated review response uses templates or AI to reply to guest reviews on booking platforms without requiring manual input for each response.
B
Booking Engine
A software tool embedded on a property manager's website that enables guests to search availability and book directly.
C
Channel Manager
Software that synchronizes property listings, availability, and pricing across multiple booking platforms.
Channel Mapping
Channel mapping is the process of correctly matching a property's room or unit types and rate plans in a PMS or channel manager to each OTA's corresponding fields so listings and rates sync accurately.
CRM
Customer relationship management software used to track guest interactions, preferences, and communication for retention and remarketing.
D
Derived Rates
Rate plans calculated automatically from a base or parent rate by a fixed offset or percentage, so changing the base updates every linked rate.
Digital Guidebook
A digital guidebook is an online resource hosts provide to guests with property instructions, local recommendations, and essential information accessible by smartphone.
Dynamic Pricing
An automated pricing strategy that adjusts nightly rates in real-time based on demand, competition, and market conditions.
G
Google Vacation Rentals
Google's commission-free metasearch platform that displays vacation rental listings directly in Google Search and Maps.
Guest Portal
A digital interface where guests can access booking details, check-in instructions, and property information.
I
iCal
A calendar file format used to synchronize availability between booking platforms and calendar applications.
K
Keyless Entry
Keyless entry systems allow vacation rental guests to access a property using a code, smartphone, or smart lock instead of a physical key.
Keypad Lock
A code-based door lock that enables self-check-in for vacation rental guests without physical keys.
L
Listing Syndication
Listing syndication is the practice of distributing a single property listing's content across multiple channels and OTAs from one central source.
M
Metasearch Engine
A travel platform that aggregates and compares vacation rental listings from multiple booking sites without taking commissions.
Multi-Calendar
A consolidated calendar view showing availability and bookings across all properties and channels in one place.
N
Noise Monitoring
Privacy-safe devices that detect excessive noise levels at vacation rental properties to prevent disturbances.
O
Occupancy Sensor
A device that detects presence or occupancy in a space, used to manage energy and to flag potential unauthorized occupancy or parties without recording video or audio.
Open API
A publicly available programming interface that allows third-party developers to integrate with a platform.
Owner Portal
A dedicated dashboard where property owners can view their rental performance, bookings, and financial statements.
P
Property Management System (PMS)
A centralized software platform for managing all aspects of vacation rental operations.
Proptech
Proptech (property technology) refers to software and digital tools that automate and optimize real estate and rental property operations.
R
Rate Push
Rate push is the process by which a channel manager sends updated rates and availability out to all connected OTAs so pricing stays consistent across channels.
Revenue Management System (RMS)
Specialized software that uses data analytics to optimize vacation rental pricing and maximize revenue across a portfolio.
S
Smart Lock
An electronic lock that allows keyless property access using codes, apps, or other digital credentials.
Smart Thermostat
An internet-connected thermostat that lets hosts control and cap heating and cooling remotely, saving energy between stays and setting comfortable temperatures for arrivals.
T
Two-Way Sync
Two-way sync automatically keeps calendar availability and reservation data updated in both directions between a property management system and connected booking channels.
U
Unified Inbox
A centralized messaging hub that consolidates guest communications from all booking channels into one interface.
User Roles
Permission levels assigned to team members within property management software to control access to features, data, and operations.
V
Vacation Rental Software
Technology platforms designed to help property managers automate and streamline vacation rental operations at scale.
Virtual Tour
An interactive 3D walkthrough of a vacation rental property that allows prospective guests to explore the space remotely.
W
Webhook
An automated notification sent from one system to another when a specific event occurs.
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