If a department has no historical data, PMI cannot use its SMART algorithms, which rely on past patterns to suggest efficient staffing levels.

Instead, PMI falls back on cost driver logic as the primary basis for scheduling guidance:

Here’s how it works:

• Cost Driver-Based Scheduling: The system uses a linked cost driver (e.g., room nights, covers, revenue) to estimate required hours. This provides a baseline forecast tied to expected business volume.
• Default Productivity Values: PMI may apply default productivity ratios (e.g., hours per 100 room nights) if defined in the configuration or mappings.
• Manual Inputs & Adjustments: Users can manually enter forecasted hours based on expected needs, and these can later be refined as actual data becomes available.
• No ML or Smart Hours Yet: Since Smart-schedule guidance depends on past performance trends, departments with no prior year’s hours won’t benefit from it until a baseline has been established.

Tip: If you’re setting up SMART for a new department, ensure a cost driver is assigned and mapped. This allows the system to provide at least basic forecasting support until historical data builds up.