The end of Viewdata? Not for a while

Travel Technology Show Special: It may be outdated and unfashionable – but Viewdata is still the agent’s favourite booking tool. Despite widespread and endless predictions that the system is on the brink of extinction, travel software supplier Travelink admitted it is still going strong. “I said 12 years ago that Viewdata was dying,” said Travelink managing director David Jones. “It’s still here and now I refuse to comment on when it might disappear.” While urging operators to adopt a single system for all distribution channels, Mr Jones admitted Viewdata remained popular with high street agents. “We spent time with one of the big four operators and asked its agents what they wanted,” he told a seminar at the inaugural Travel Technology Show in London. “The results showed that while we think Viewdata is crumbling, agents like it. They said it’s reliable, fast and they know how it works. “We might not like it but the ducks are quacking. Agents want it.” Earlier in the debate, which examined multiple distribution channels for operators, accommodation and attraction ticket operator Seligo said almost half its sales still come through Viewdata. “I was shocked at that figure,” said Mr Jones. Meanwhile, tour operator system supplier Illusions said introducing an integrated system, including a real-time bookable website, will cut costs – by cutting out agents. “By increasing bookings over the web it would reduce the reliance on agents which are high-cost,” said chief executive Faisal Memon. “Everyone wants to go direct.” Mark Bradbury, director of business development at software consultancy RWA, said it was crucial for operators to invest and cover all distribution channels. “Invest in technology not just as an enabler to get business but to grow your business,” he said.