Why Is a Channel Manager Better Than iCal Sync?
Understand how a Channel Manager compares to iCal sync, including faster availability updates, better booking synchronisation, and reduced manual work across multiple OTAs.
Both iCal and channel managers can help share calendar availability between booking platforms, but they work differently.
What is iCal?
iCal is a calendar-sharing method.
A platform provides a calendar link that another platform can read to understand which dates are blocked.
It is useful for basic availability sharing.
The limitation of iCal
iCal is primarily focused on calendar availability.
It does not provide the same level of two-way, real-time management that a direct channel connection can provide.
Depending on the platform and refresh cycle, there can also be a delay between a booking and when another platform receives the updated calendar.
What does a channel manager do?
A channel manager connects directly with supported booking platforms.
It can manage more than blocked dates, including supported:
- Bookings
- Availability
- Pricing
- Restrictions
- Other channel information
Why does this matter?
Imagine a guest books your property.
With a delayed calendar-sharing method, another platform may not immediately know that the date is unavailable.
With a real-time channel connection, the availability can be updated much faster.
iCal vs Channel Manager
What does Homeyhuts use?
Homeyhuts is built around direct connections with supported booking channels rather than relying only on iCal calendar sharing.
Homeyhuts states that connected bookings, prices and availability are synchronised in real time. ([Homeyhuts Channel Manager](https://homeyhuts.com/channel-manager))
In simple terms
iCal helps share a calendar.
A channel manager helps manage your business across connected booking platforms.