CiMSO Live KZN 2026 | Collaboration and Hospitality

CiMSO Live KZN 2026 brought together hospitality professionals, technology partners, and industry leaders for another memorable day of collaboration and innovation in KwaZulu-Natal. Designed to strengthen connections within the hospitality sector while showcasing the latest developments in integrated technology, this year’s event created an environment focused on learning, engagement, and practical solutions for modern operators.

From the opening networking session to the final discussions of the day, the atmosphere reflected the strong relationships and shared goals that continue to define the CiMSO community.

Bringing the Hospitality Industry Together

Guests arrived from across the region to connect with fellow operators, exchange experiences, and explore the latest developments within the CiMSO software ecosystem. The event provided an opportunity for hospitality professionals to step away from day-to-day operations and focus on the bigger picture: improving efficiency, strengthening guest experiences, and preparing for the future of hospitality management.

The core themes of CiMSO Live KZN 2026 centred around:

The future direction of CiMSO development and integrations
Sharing practical best practices from hospitality operators
Encouraging collaboration across the CiMSO client network
Exploring technology that simplifies operations and improves profitability

Technology with Purpose

One of the highlights of the day was the CiMSO strategy and development presentation, where attendees were given insight into upcoming enhancements, integration developments, and evolving technologies designed to support hospitality businesses in an increasingly connected environment.

Particular interest was shown in CiMSO’s growing integration capabilities, including automated mass mailing functionality, advanced multi-currency support, and the new revenue management integration with RoomPriceGenie. These developments generated strong discussion around operational efficiency, smarter pricing strategies, and improving direct guest communication.

Interactive discussions throughout the sessions gave clients the opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback, and share ideas directly with the CiMSO team — reinforcing the collaborative approach that continues to shape the system’s development.

Group discussions during the User Forum

Practical Power Sessions

A major focus of CiMSO Live KZN 2026 was the series of Power Sessions, where hospitality professionals and industry partners shared practical insights, operational strategies, and real-world experiences from within the hospitality sector.

Smarter Guest Communication: The San Lameer MAILmerger Story

Presented by Marieta Brierley from San Lameer, this session explored how automated and targeted guest communication can strengthen customer relationships while reducing administrative workload. Attendees gained insight into how properties are using CiMSO’s MAILmerger functionality to improve communication consistency, marketing reach, and guest engagement.

Stock Smarter, Not Harder

Willie Britz from Lake Eland delivered a practical session focused on stock control, operational efficiency, and smarter management processes. The discussion highlighted the importance of accurate stock monitoring and streamlined procedures in improving profitability and reducing unnecessary losses.

From Inquiry to Check-In: Perfecting Reservations

Presented by Evette van Vuuren from TO Strand, this session focused on refining the reservation journey from the initial guest enquiry through to arrival. The presentation explored operational best practices, reservation workflows, and ways to improve both efficiency and the overall guest experience.

Tourism Best Practices

Vanessa Gounden from South Coast Tourism provided valuable industry perspectives on tourism trends, regional collaboration, and practical approaches to strengthening destination appeal within the hospitality sector.

Critical Hospitality Systems: Cybersecurity, Cloud vs On-Prem & Backup Resilience

James Sharkey from KEY Computers led an important discussion around the growing role of cybersecurity and infrastructure resilience in hospitality operations. The session explored the advantages and considerations of cloud and on-premise environments, while emphasising the importance of backup strategies and operational continuity in an increasingly digital industry.

Together, the Power Sessions created an environment of collaboration and shared learning, allowing attendees to exchange experiences, discuss challenges, and discover practical solutions that can be applied directly within their own operations.

CiMSO Appreciation Awards

A highlight of the afternoon was the CiMSO Appreciation Awards, where we recognised individuals and organisations embracing innovation and operational excellence within the hospitality industry.

Company Award: Digital Innovation – San Lameer

The Digital Innovation Award was presented to San Lameer in recognition of their commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional hospitality through the implementation and adoption of innovative digital CiMSO solutions. Their forward-thinking approach to technology integration and operational improvement continues to set a strong example within the hospitality sector, demonstrating how digital transformation can enhance both efficiency and guest experience.

Johan Marais congratulates award winners: Evette van Vuuren from TO Strand (left) and Marieta Brierly from San Lameer (right).

Operational Excellence Award – Evette van Vuuren (TO Strand)

The Operational Excellence Award was presented to Evette van Vuuren from TO Strand for her outstanding contribution to the successful adoption and effective use of the CiMSO system. Through her dedication to operational efficiency, seamless integration of modules into daily workflows, and strong focus on staff competency and productivity, Evette has played a key role in maximising the value of the CiMSO platform within her organisation.

The Value of the User Forum

As with previous CiMSO Live events, the User Forum remained one of the most valuable aspects of the day. Clients had the opportunity to share feedback, suggest improvements, and discuss operational challenges openly with both the CiMSO team and fellow users.

This collaborative environment continues to play a major role in shaping future development within the CiMSO suite. By listening directly to the people using the software daily, CiMSO is able to prioritise enhancements that deliver meaningful operational value.

The forum also highlighted something equally important — the strength of the CiMSO hospitality community itself. Operators shared practical advice, implementation experiences, and creative solutions that benefited everyone in attendance.

Looking Ahead

CiMSO Live KZN 2026 once again demonstrated the importance of collaboration, transparency, and long-term partnership within the hospitality technology space. As hospitality businesses continue adapting to evolving guest expectations and operational demands, events like these create valuable opportunities for connection, learning, and shared growth.

We would like to thank everyone who attended and contributed to the success of this year’s event. Your insights, engagement, and support continue to help shape the future of CiMSO and the broader hospitality industry.

Contact Us

CiMSO supports clients transitioning from fragmented legacy software systems to fully integrated ERP solutions. We also manage the successful deployment of new systems in compliance with our ISO90003 Quality Management Systems and PRINCEII project management methodologies.

Don’t hesitate to contact your local CiMSO office or Value Added Reseller for more information on CiMSO’s Integrated ERP Software Suites for Hotels, Lodges, Resorts, Clubs, Timeshare, and Leasing management.