How can travel agents use GDS software to manage travel itineraries?

1 What is GDS software?

GDS stands for global distribution system, and it is a network of databases that connects travel suppliers, such as airlines, hotels, car rental companies, and tour operators, with travel agents, online travel agencies, and corporate travel managers. GDS software allows you to access and book the inventory and rates of thousands of travel suppliers from one platform. You can also use GDS software to issue tickets, invoices, vouchers, and other documents for your clients.

2 How can GDS software help you manage travel itineraries?

GDS software can help you manage travel itineraries in several ways. First, you can use GDS software to search and compare the availability, fares, and features of different travel options for your clients. You can filter the results by criteria such as departure and arrival times, airlines, hotel chains, car categories, and more. You can also use GDS software to create and save multiple travel scenarios for your clients, so you can present them with the best alternatives and let them choose.

Second, you can use GDS software to book and confirm the travel services that your clients select. You can enter the passenger details, payment information, and special requests for each reservation. You can also use GDS software to modify or cancel the reservations if needed. You can use GDS software to generate the confirmation codes, e-tickets, e-invoices, and e-vouchers that you can send to your clients and the travel suppliers.

Third, you can use GDS software to monitor and update the travel itineraries for your clients. You can use GDS software to check the status of the reservations, the flight schedules, the hotel check-in and check-out times, and the car rental pickup and drop-off locations. You can also use GDS software to receive alerts and notifications about any changes or disruptions that may affect the travel plans of your clients. You can use GDS software to communicate with your clients and the travel suppliers to resolve any issues or make any adjustments.

3 What are the benefits of using GDS software?

GDS software can bring many benefits to travel agents, such as saving time and money by accessing and booking travel services from one platform, increasing sales and commissions by offering a wider range of travel options and services, improving customer service and satisfaction by creating customized itineraries, and enhancing professional skills by learning the GDS software features. Furthermore, GDS software allows agents to stay updated on the latest trends and developments in the travel industry.

4 How can you learn and use GDS software?

To learn and use GDS software, you need to have a computer, an internet connection, and a GDS account. You also need to have some basic computer skills, such as typing, using a mouse, and navigating a web browser. You can choose from different GDS software providers, such as Amadeus, Sabre, Galileo, or Worldspan, depending on your preferences and needs. Each GDS software provider has its own interface, commands, codes, and formats that you need to learn and use.

You can learn and use GDS software in different ways. You can take online or offline courses, workshops, or webinars that teach you the basics and the advanced features of GDS software. You can also use online or offline manuals, guides, or tutorials that explain and demonstrate how to use GDS software. You can also practice and improve your GDS skills by using online or offline simulators, exercises, or quizzes that test your knowledge and ability to use GDS software.

5 What are some tips and best practices for using GDS software?

Using GDS software effectively and efficiently requires some tips and best practices. Make use of the software's shortcuts, macros, and templates for faster and easier performance of common or repetitive tasks. Utilize the filters, sorting, or grouping options to narrow down or organize search and booking results. Take advantage of the remarks, notes, or comments fields to add or store important information. Leverage the quality control, security, or backup features to prevent or correct errors, fraud, or loss of data. And don't forget to use the GDS software reports, statistics, or analytics features to track and measure your performance, productivity, or profitability.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?