Operations Management & Efficiency Flashcards

A hotel's RevPAR dropped 12% this quarter despite stable occupancy. What is the most likely cause?

Answer: Declining Average Daily Rate (ADR)

RevPAR = Occupancy × ADR, so stable occupancy with falling RevPAR points directly to a declining ADR.

Which scheduling approach best balances labor costs with service quality during unpredictable demand periods?

Answer: Demand-based flex scheduling

Demand-based flex scheduling adjusts staffing levels to forecasted business volume, reducing idle labor while maintaining coverage.

A property implements a 'first-in, first-out' (FIFO) system in its kitchen. What primary goal does this achieve?

Answer: Minimizing food waste and spoilage

FIFO ensures older inventory is used before newer stock, directly reducing spoilage and food waste costs.

What does a 'par level' refer to in hospitality supply management?

Answer: The minimum stock level that triggers a reorder

Par level is the minimum quantity of a supply item that must be on hand to meet operational needs before reordering is required.

Which metric best measures front desk operational efficiency in terms of the check-in process?

Answer: Average check-in time per guest

Average check-in time per guest directly measures the speed and efficiency of front desk operations.

A general manager notices housekeeping labor costs are consistently above budget. Which analysis should be performed first?

Answer: Compare actual minutes-per-room to the productivity standard

Comparing actual versus standard minutes-per-room isolates whether the cost variance stems from productivity, overstaffing, or scope changes.

In hotel operations, what is the primary purpose of a 'daily flash report'?

Answer: To provide a snapshot of key financial and operational metrics for rapid decision-making

A daily flash report gives management a quick overview of occupancy, revenue, and other KPIs to make timely operational adjustments.