Keeping abreast of industry trends, Tourism Update shines a spotlight on selected examples of the latest technology in the travel and tourism industry.
Travelogic rolls out version V4.5
Travelogic Tour Operator Software has launched version V4.5, which features enhancements in functionality and changes in look and feel. The new version offers integration with Wetu, ResRequest, Nightsbridge, E-Res, Sage One, Activitar, and its own Agent Access product. The technology allows for improved live availability, bookings and convenient accounting for users of Sage One as well as current Pastel Partner options. Roll-out of the new version has already begun.
Wetu upgrades Itinerary Builder
Wetu’s Itinerary Builder upgrades have gone live, offering a few additional features, while maintaining the essential outputs for client proposals and travel documents. They have also introduced TravelKey, an accessory for the digitally savvy traveller, which provides access to a portable reference of useful info, contact details, maps and more.
Tourvest Destination Management aims to improve real-time availability system response
Dieter Holle, Chief Information Officer of Tourvest Destination Management, says: “There is an intrinsic technological problem regarding real-time availability. When we had a contracted allocation system, response times were fast because they were held in a singular data base. This is no longer the case.”
In order to improve the amount of time it takes for the API systems to retrieve data, Tourvest is developing technology that will aggregate best rate, inventory and price at a given time. It will then send this data to the client’s system continuously – not just when the client requests it. This way, when a request is made, the information can be accessed without delay.
Rainmaker Digital Namibia offers digital success
According to Thomas Müller, CEO and co-founder of Rainmaker Digital Namibia, by optimising a website’s relationship with Google, it is possible to get 20%-30% more visitors and convert 30%-50% more bookings.
“It is also important to manage your online reputation professionally across all platforms,” he says. “With today’s technology, Rainmaker can do this for you, across 200+ platforms like TripAdvisor and Holidaycheck. These reviews can also be fed back to you so that you can immediately improve on your service.”
Muller says Rainmaker can also manage clients’ digital distribution, marketing and sales across all platforms they are connected to. “Advances in technology have made it possible to achieve between 15% and 40% more revenue in this manner,” he says.
Rainmaker has also launched the VISTA destination network, which can close the gap for small tour operators looking to integrate with an API in a cost-effective manner.
Wesgro launches a digital asset library
Wesgro will launch its new digital asset library in November. According to Wesgro Chief Marketing Officer, Judy Lain, the library will be a valuable tool for industry, tourism partners and the media in general.
Ashtons makes digital strides
Ashtons Tours, Safaris & Shuttles Managing Director, Andrew Iles, says: “Over the last two to three years we have introduced real-time availability and online booking and payment for our scheduled shuttle services. We are also able to track where any of our vehicles are at any given time to ensure optimal service provision for our scheduled shuttle and private transfer services.
“We are very active in the digital marketing space and we have progressive Google Adwords, Facebook and Instagram strategies. Social media is a prime way for us to target a chosen market and as a result we have invested in the growth opportunities by incorporating our digital marketing team in-house."
