What is the obligation of a Bw Premier Collection System Hotel regarding software updates/upgrades for their PMS?
Bw_Premier_Collection Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
System Hotels must obtain a PMS but it may the PMS of their choosing. All System Hotels are required to ensure that their PMS's are kept current on software updates/upgrades. We do not have any contractual limitations on the frequency and costs of any such obligations.
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 33–37)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Bw Premier Collection Franchise Disclosure Document, System Hotels have the flexibility to choose their own Property Management System (PMS). However, Bw Premier Collection mandates that all System Hotels ensure their chosen PMS is consistently updated with the latest software updates and upgrades. While Bw Premier Collection requires these updates, they do not impose any contractual limitations regarding the frequency or costs associated with these updates.
This policy ensures that all Bw Premier Collection hotels maintain a certain level of technological currency in their operations. By keeping their PMS software up-to-date, franchisees can benefit from the latest features, security enhancements, and bug fixes, which can improve operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.
However, the lack of contractual limitations on the frequency and costs of these updates means that franchisees need to budget and plan accordingly. The costs can vary significantly depending on the PMS vendor and the nature of the updates required. Franchisees should carefully evaluate the total cost of ownership of their chosen PMS, including not only the initial purchase price but also the ongoing costs of updates and maintenance.
Prospective franchisees should discuss with Bw Premier Collection the typical update schedules and associated costs experienced by other franchisees to better understand the financial implications of this requirement. This will help in making an informed decision and in preparing a realistic budget for the technology infrastructure of their Bw Premier Collection System Hotel.