A 2005 ResExpo panel on “multi-channel distribution” agreed in at least one area: No one system works for everyone.
“The issue for the right technology platform depends on what you’re trying to do,” said Sue Powers, chief information officer and senior vice president, Worldwide Product Solutions, Worldspan.
The panel’s moderator, Kathy Misunias, partner and founder of Essential Ideas, pointed out that GDS systems involved not only reservations but many other areas such as flight crew scheduling.
One panel member said Amadeus is among companies moving away from GDS systems into more open architecture.
“The good news for Amadeus is that we knew this change was going to come and we’re prepared,” said Peter Von Moltke, senior vice president, Airline Business Group, Amadeus N.A.
Other panel members such as Mitch Gross, executive vp and general manager, The Amercias, Galileo, said companies are looking to mix both GDS and non-GDS systems.
Report by David Wilkening
