Arrgh! Why are GDS Systems so hard to use? 

It’s fair to say that travel Global Distribution Systems (GDS) win very few prizes for ease of use. But why is that?

GDSs play an important role in the seamless functioning of the travel industry, connecting travel agents, airlines, hotels, and other service providers.

Fans of GDS systems argue that they do a good job streamlining the booking process, providing a centralised platform where agents can access a vast array of travel-related information in real-time. This includes details on flights, accommodation, car rentals, and more. The interface allows agents to efficiently compare options, check availability, and secure bookings, ultimately saving time and reducing the margin for error.

However, anyone who has used a GDS will tell you that there is a steep learning curve for new users because of the complexity of the system. Training requirements for travel agents can be extensive, and mastering the intricacies of the system’s commands time-consuming. Navigating the multitude of codes, commands, and interfaces is often daunting for beginners, potentially leading to errors in bookings or poor service delivery.

Ultimately, the user-friendliness of travel GDS systems may vary based on factors such as individual proficiency, experience level, and the adaptability of the system itself. For seasoned travel professionals, the benefits of GDS systems in terms of efficiency and comprehensive information access may outweigh the initial learning curve. However, for newcomers, the complexity poses serious problems.

Industry leaders continually invest in user interface enhancements and training programs, but critics say they still have a long way to go, particularly if you consider the fees they charge.

Integrating NDC content is throwing up more challenges for the travel industry. As more NDC content is incorporated, agents will have to adapt their systems or spend more time and money on training and getting staff up to speed.

In principle NDC should enable airlines to connect directly with travel sellers, bypassing intermediaries like GDS. However, it hasn’t eliminated the need for GDS in the foreseeable future. In theory, travel agents can access airline NDC either through direct connections to airlines’ APIs or via NDC-enabled GDS, but adoption depends on the technological readiness of the travel agency on one hand, and the airlines’ readiness on the other, since many airlines have not fully implemented NDC capabilities

At Journey Mentor we recognised the shortfalls of this complex situation and set out to simplify the process. That’s why our range of tools integrates both GDS and globally available NDC content, alongside local content, in a unified platform, speedily and seamlessly offering the best of all worlds.