HotelSwaps

HotelSwaps required a secure, flexible platform to manage its points-based hospitality exchange system with multi-currency e-commerce, permissions, messaging, and advanced reporting.

A luxury hotel pool overlooking the ocean

The ask

HotelSwaps needed a platform that could reliably support every part of its exchange network. The brief centred on the creation of a secure internal points system that members could use to trade stays, along with the ability to process e-commerce transactions in USD, EUR, and GBP. They also required clear permission structures so different user groups could access the right tools without overstepping into areas they shouldn’t.

Alongside this, the team wanted a content management setup that gave HotelSwaps admins full control over the information and updates presented across the platform. Security was a priority throughout, with measures in place to prevent misuse and protect the integrity of the points system. Strong reporting was essential, ensuring the organisation could monitor activity, spot trends, and make operational decisions with confidence.

The approach

We began with a set of workshops to understand how the business worked behind the scenes and what the new platform needed to achieve. Drupal 7 emerged as the right fit thanks to its stability and the freedom it gives to shape complex systems without locking clients into heavy proprietary solutions.

From there, we designed a platform that blended Drupal’s strengths with several bespoke elements. We brought in Drupal Commerce to manage payments across three currencies and built a secure points system to handle member transactions. We integrated a custom eWAY payment gateway, introduced structured permissions through Organic Groups, and added detailed reporting that could surface the operational data HotelSwaps relied on. Automated events and email notifications were handled through the Rules system, making sure members and admins received timely updates without manual intervention.

The results

The end result is a platform that can carry the weight of HotelSwaps’ ambitious model. It now supports international transactions, handles points-based exchanges with ease, and gives administrators the tools they need to manage content, monitor activity, and keep everything running smoothly. The strengthened permissions structure adds a layer of confidence, ensuring the right people have the right access at the right time.

Most importantly, the new system has given HotelSwaps the foundation to grow on their own terms. With a Drupal-powered platform that is both scalable and secure, they have the freedom to expand their global reach with a robust, future-ready system.