‘Radically improved’ Viewdata unveiled

ViewdataPlus – an overhauled version of the old travel agents’ booking system – has been released by travel trade software supplier Comtec.

The company claims to be offering digital brochure content to agents free of charge with the system in addition to a search-engine toolbar offering connectivity to operators Viewdata technology.

Future releases will enable agents to issue customer documentation containing digital images and costing information, including insurance and discounts.

ViewdataPlus will soon be available inside Comtec’s EasySell agency selling tool with integration into the firm’s agency management system TravelCat.

ViewdataPlus can be accessed without agents being required to purchase system connectivity from a specific travel network supplier.

“This flexibility enables every travel agent to select the Viewdata and network connectivity combination that best suits their specific business needs,” Comtec said.

The company estimates that 98% of agents still use Viewdata to book package holidays and charter flights despite its limitations.

Comtec (Europe) chief executive Simon Powell said: “I have been in the industry for over 15 years and have predicted the death of Viewdata for much of that time. However the demise of Viewdata has never arrived.

“ViewdataPlus is not about extending the lifespan of Viewdata, but rather about enhancing it’s effectiveness in today’s demanding and competitive marketplace. By linking brochure images and descriptions ViewdataPlus creates a much more user friendly interface and improves agent’s productivity.”

Initially offering hotel-based brochure content, further enhancements to ViewdataPlus are planned, including the integration of holiday extras (e.g. parking and currency) and the ability for users to carry-out quick comparative costing between alternate travel suppliers.

Powell said: “I have never hidden my feelings towards the Viewdata system. I believe it is out-dated, out-moded and does not offer the best selling tool in a fast-paced market. However, despite these limitations, I also realise many tour operators will not be changing their reservations systems for some time.

“The reality is that Viewdata will be around for some years to come and technology suppliers need to offer agents the tools they need to compete today, as well as build the systems required to support the industry into the future. This has lead Comtec to invest in radically improving a tool still widely used by most of the retail travel sector.”

Report by Phil Davies