Global Distribution Systems (GDS) are powerful tools that can significantly enhance a travel supplier's reach and booking potential. It is thus vital for understanding and effectively utilizing a GDS, and as a travel professional, you can connect with a wider audience of travel agents and online booking platforms.
It will take some time becoming comfortable using a GDS system, but after some time, you will wonder how you managed without it. This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process of choosing and using a GDS system:
1. Choose the Right GDS Partner:
- Research: You must firstly identify the GDS providers that align with your business needs and your travel target market. Consider the factors like geographic reach, connectivity, and of course the pricing structures.
- Direct vs. Indirect Connection: You can further decide whether you want a direct connection to the GDS or prefer working through a GDS provider or aggregator.
- Contract Negotiation: Read the fine print carefully to review and negotiate the terms of the contract, including required fees, commission rates, and data sharing agreements.
- Company Information: It is important to provide accurate and up-to-date details about your company, including the name, address, contact information, and your websites.
- Inventory and Rates: Once completed the next step is inputting your available inventory, pricing, and any special offers or promotions. Double check this to ensure that your data is accurate and consistent.
- Policies and Restrictions: Define your travel booking policies in detail, cancellation fees, and any other relevant restrictions your travel business adheres to.
- Real-Time Inventory: Follow provided guidelines to learn how to update your inventory in real-time to ensure accurate availability.
- Rate Management: Read information an FAQS to understand how to manage your rates and pricing strategies effectively.
- Booking and Confirmation: take some time and patience to familiarize yourself with the booking process and confirmation procedures.
- Reporting and Analytics: Fully utilize the GDS's reporting tools and data analysis to track your performance and identify trends.
- GDS Training: Create workshops that will provide comprehensive training to your staff on how to use the GDS system effectively.
- Technical Support: Check the information on support access to ensure that you have access to technical support to resolve any issues or questions.
- Regular Updates: As updates are provided you need to keep your staff updated on any changes or new features in the GDS system.
- Performance Tracking: Regularly monitor your performance metrics, such as booking volume, revenue, and average daily rate (ADR).
- Data Analysis: Analyse your data which will be invaluable to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
- Optimize Your Listings: Continuously optimize your listings to improve visibility and attract more bookings.
- Customer Support: Always provide excellent customer support to travel agents, and online booking platforms.
- Build Strong Relationships: It is important to develop strong relationships with other travel agents and online booking platforms to increase your visibility and bookings.
- Leverage GDS Features: Fully take advantage of the various features offered by the GDS, such as special promotions, group bookings, and loyalty programs.
- Stay Updated: Keep up-to-date with the latest industry trends and GDS developments to stay head and shoulders above your competitors.
- Seek Expert Advice: If using the system for the first time don’t be afraid to consult with a GDS expert or consultant to get personalized guidance and support.
