Which GDS is Best for Travel Agents in 2023?

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Which GDS is Best for Travel Agents?

The Global Distribution System (GDS) is a critical tool for travel agents, providing access to information on flights, hotels, and other travel products. But with so many different GDSs on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the different factors you should consider when choosing a GDS, including cost, features, and support. We’ll also provide some tips on how to get the most out of your GDS.

So whether you’re a new travel agent or you’re looking to switch GDSs, read on for all the information you need to make a decision.

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GDS Features Pricing
Sabre
  • Global reach
  • Largest number of airlines
  • Best for corporate travel
  • $200-$300 per month
  • Additional fees for features such as booking hotels and rental cars
Travelport
  • Strong presence in the United States
  • Good for leisure travel
  • Best for travel agents who want to book hotels and rental cars
  • $100-$200 per month
  • Additional fees for features such as booking hotels and rental cars
Amadeus
  • Strong presence in Europe
  • Best for international travel
  • Best for travel agents who want to book flights and hotels
  • $100-$200 per month
  • Additional fees for features such as booking hotels and rental cars

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Criteria for evaluating GDSs

When choosing a GDS, there are a number of factors to consider. These include:

  • Reputation: The reputation of a GDS is an important factor to consider, as it can give you an indication of the quality of service you can expect. You can find out about the reputation of a GDS by reading reviews from other travel agents, or by talking to other industry professionals.
  • Coverage: The coverage of a GDS is another important factor to consider. You want to make sure that the GDS you choose has access to a wide range of airlines, hotels, and other travel providers. This will ensure that you can find the best possible deals for your clients.
  • Pricing: The pricing of a GDS is another important factor to consider. You want to make sure that you are getting a good value for money. You should compare the pricing of different GDSs to see which one offers the best deals.
  • Ease of use: The ease of use of a GDS is another important factor to consider. You want to make sure that the GDS is easy to use, so that you can quickly and easily find the information you need.
  • Customer service: The customer service of a GDS is another important factor to consider. You want to make sure that the GDS has a good customer service team that can help you with any problems you may have.

Comparison of GDSs

There are a number of different GDSs available on the market, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some of the most popular GDSs include:

  • Sabre
  • Amadeus
  • Travelport
  • Worldspan

Each of these GDSs has its own unique features and benefits. For example, Sabre is known for its comprehensive coverage of airlines, hotels, and other travel providers. Amadeus is known for its user-friendly interface and its strong customer service. Travelport is known for its global reach and its ability to handle a wide range of travel transactions. Worldspan is known for its integration with other travel technology systems.

The best GDS for you will depend on your specific needs and requirements. If you are looking for a GDS with a wide range of coverage, then Sabre may be a good option for you. If you are looking for a GDS that is easy to use, then Amadeus may be a good option for you. If you are looking for a GDS that has a global reach, then Travelport may be a good option for you. If you are looking for a GDS that integrates well with other travel technology systems, then Worldspan may be a good option for you.

Here is a table that compares the four major GDSs:

| Feature | Sabre | Amadeus | Travelport | Worldspan |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Coverage | Excellent | Good | Good | Good |
| Ease of use | Good | Excellent | Good | Fair |
| Customer service | Good | Excellent | Good | Fair |
| Global reach | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Good |
| Integration with other travel technology systems | Good | Excellent | Good | Fair |

Ultimately, the best way to decide which GDS is right for you is to try out each one and see which one you like best. You can do this by signing up for a free trial with each GDS.

When choosing a GDS, it is important to consider the factors listed in this article. By carefully evaluating your needs and requirements, you can choose a GDS that will meet your needs and help you grow your travel agency business.

3. Factors to consider when choosing a GDS

When choosing a GDS, there are a number of factors to consider, including:

  • Reputation: The reputation of a GDS is an important factor to consider, as it can give you an indication of the level of service you can expect. Do some research online and read reviews from other travel agents to get a better understanding of the different GDSs on the market.
  • Coverage: The coverage of a GDS is another important factor to consider, as it will determine the number of airlines, hotels, and other travel suppliers that you can access through the system. Make sure that the GDS you choose has a wide range of suppliers, so that you can offer your clients the best possible choice of products and services.
  • Pricing: The pricing of a GDS is another important factor to consider, as you will want to make sure that you are getting the best value for money. Compare the prices of the different GDSs on the market and make sure that you are happy with the terms and conditions.
  • Technology: The technology of a GDS is another important factor to consider, as it will determine how easy the system is to use and how efficient it is. Make sure that the GDS you choose has a user-friendly interface and that it is compatible with your existing technology.
  • Customer support: The customer support of a GDS is another important factor to consider, as you will want to make sure that you have access to help and support when you need it. Make sure that the GDS you choose has a good track record of providing excellent customer support.

4. Tips for using a GDS effectively

Once you have chosen a GDS, there are a number of things you can do to use it effectively, including:

  • Get training: It is important to get training on how to use your GDS, so that you can make the most of the system. Most GDSs offer training courses, so make sure to take advantage of these.
  • Keep up-to-date: The GDS industry is constantly changing, so it is important to keep up-to-date with the latest developments. Make sure to read the latest news and updates from your GDS provider, so that you are aware of any new features or changes.
  • Use the resources available: Most GDSs offer a range of resources to help you use the system effectively. These resources can include training materials, online tutorials, and helpdesks. Make sure to take advantage of these resources, so that you can get the most out of your GDS.
  • Ask for help when you need it: If you are ever stuck, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your GDS provider. Most GDS providers offer a range of support options, such as phone support, email support, and online chat. Make sure to use these support options, so that you can get the help you need when you need it.

By following these tips, you can use your GDS effectively and improve the efficiency of your travel agency.

Q: Which GDS is best for travel agents?

A: There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best GDS for a travel agent will depend on their specific needs and requirements. However, some of the factors that you may want to consider when making your decision include:

  • The size of your agency and the volume of bookings you process.
  • The types of travel products you sell.
  • The features and functionality that are important to you.
  • The cost of the GDS.
  • The level of support and training that is offered.

Once you have considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your options and compare the different GDSs on the market. Some of the most popular GDSs for travel agents include Amadeus, Sabre, Travelport, and Worldspan.

Q: What are the benefits of using a GDS?

A: There are many benefits to using a GDS, including:

  • Access to a wider range of travel products and services.
  • Improved efficiency and productivity.
  • Increased customer satisfaction.
  • Enhanced security.
  • Reduced costs.

GDSs can help travel agents to book flights, hotels, car rentals, and other travel products and services quickly and easily. They can also provide access to real-time pricing and availability data, which can help agents to make the best possible bookings for their clients. In addition, GDSs can help agents to manage their bookings and track their commissions.

Q: What are the drawbacks of using a GDS?

A: There are some drawbacks to using a GDS, including:

  • The cost of the GDS.
  • The complexity of the GDS.
  • The need for training.
  • The potential for technical problems.

GDSs can be expensive, and they can also be complex to use. This can make it difficult for smaller travel agencies to justify the cost of a GDS, and it can also be a challenge for agents to learn how to use the system effectively. In addition, GDSs can sometimes experience technical problems, which can lead to delays in booking or incorrect information being displayed.

Q: How do I choose the right GDS for my travel agency?

A: Choosing the right GDS for your travel agency will depend on your specific needs and requirements. However, some of the factors that you may want to consider include:

  • The size of your agency and the volume of bookings you process.
  • The types of travel products you sell.
  • The features and functionality that are important to you.
  • The cost of the GDS.
  • The level of support and training that is offered.

Once you have considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your options and compare the different GDSs on the market. You may also want to speak to other travel agents who use different GDSs to get their feedback.

Q: What are the different types of GDSs?

A: There are two main types of GDSs:

  • Centralized GDSs: These GDSs are owned and operated by a single company, and they are used by travel agents all over the world. The most popular centralized GDSs include Amadeus, Sabre, Travelport, and Worldspan.
  • Distributor GDSs: These GDSs are owned and operated by travel suppliers, such as airlines, hotels, and car rental companies. Distributor GDSs are typically used by travel agents who specialize in selling the products of a particular supplier.

Q: What is the difference between a GDS and a PMS?

A: A GDS (Global Distribution System) is a computer system that allows travel agents to book flights, hotels, car rentals, and other travel products and services. A PMS (Property Management System) is a computer system that allows hotels to manage their operations, such as reservations, check-in/check-out, and housekeeping.

GDSs and PMSs are both essential tools for the travel and hospitality industries, but they serve different purposes. GDSs are used by travel agents to book travel products, while PMSs are used by hotels to manage their operations.

Q: What are the latest trends in GDSs?

A: The latest trends in GDSs include:

  • The increasing use of mobile devices.
  • The growth of online travel agencies.

there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which GDS is best for travel agents. The best GDS for a particular travel agent will depend on their specific needs and requirements. However, by considering the factors discussed in this article, travel agents can make an informed decision about which GDS is right for them.

Here are some key takeaways:

  • The three main GDSs are Amadeus, Sabre, and Travelport.
  • Each GDS has its own strengths and weaknesses.
  • Travel agents should consider their specific needs and requirements when choosing a GDS.
  • The best GDS for a travel agent is the one that provides the most value for their money.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.