What specifications must computers, components, or peripheral devices and equipment meet for the PMS and Reservation System at a Crowne Plaza?
Crowne_Plaza Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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Through one or more "private network" connecting services, or another solution as specified, the PMS enables you to receive reservations from the Central Reservation Centers or any other Crowne Plaza brand group Hotel, travel agencies and you own Hotel. The Reservation System software is custom configured to SCH's requirements. You may install only computers, components or peripheral devices and equipment meeting SCH's specifications for the PMS and Reservation System. You may obtain the hardware from SCH or any third -party vendor that meets SCH's specifications. You must periodically upgrade the equipment to accommodate enhanced versions of PMS, as provided in the Master
Technology Services Agreement. SCH will provide or arrange for training and implementation support, as described in the Master Technology Services Agreement, and has entered into agreements with service providers for maintenance for the PMS. SCH or the provider will bill you for these services. See Item 7 for expenses relating to travel and on-site support.
The PMS provides a computerized front desk operation, and is designed to increase speed and productivity of front desk operational tasks (e.g., Check-In, Check-Out, Night-Audit, Housekeeping, Management Reports, etc.).
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 69–81)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Crowne Plaza Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must ensure that all computers, components, peripheral devices, and equipment used for the Property Management System (PMS) and Reservation System meet SCH's (presumably Six Continents Hotels, Inc.) specifications. Franchisees have the option to acquire the hardware from SCH directly or from any third-party vendor, provided that the hardware meets SCH's established specifications.
Crowne Plaza requires franchisees to periodically upgrade their equipment to remain compatible with enhanced versions of the PMS, as detailed in the Master Technology Services Agreement. SCH will provide or arrange for training and implementation support, also outlined in the Master Technology Services Agreement, and has agreements with service providers for PMS maintenance. Franchisees will be billed for these services either by SCH or the service provider.
In addition, franchisees must purchase property management and telecommunications system components from designated third-party vendors or vendors whose equipment and software meet Holiday's (likely referring to IHG's) specifications. These components include access to the Reservation System, IHG Concerto™, the GDS, Revenue Management System (RMS) functionality through the IHG Concerto™ platform, PMS hardware, software, training, support, interfaces to SCH systems, workstations, printers, local and wide area network connectivity, HSIA for hotel operations, access to IHG Merlin, presence on hotel brand internet sites, approved IHG Admin Program for personal computers and servers, and a computerized payment card processing program.
Crowne Plaza maintains the right to demand immediate upgrades, supplements, or replacements of computer equipment or software that they deem obsolete. Franchisees are also restricted to installing only approved system components and software, with no other computer hardware or software permitted. SCH requires that franchisees refresh PMS hardware/software every 48 months. Franchisees should seek clarification from Crowne Plaza regarding the specific criteria and approved vendors to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties or system incompatibilities.