How can travel agents overcome the struggles with GDS and NDC information retrieval?

Travel agents and managers play a crucial role in providing seamless experiences for clients either going on holiday or travelling for business.

However, it’s well known they face numerous challenges when navigating the complex landscape of Global Distribution Systems (GDS) and New Distribution Capability (NDC).

These hurdles often hinder their ability to access the best and most up-to-date information for their clients.

One issue is the fragmented nature of information across GDS and NDC. Global Distribution Systems, traditionally used by travel agents, provide a vast source of travel-related data, including flights, accommodation, and car rentals. Meanwhile, NDC introduces a parallel system that offers additional, often more personalised, content directly from airlines. The coexistence of these two systems creates a challenge for bookers in reconciling and consolidating information to present comprehensive options to clients.

Interoperability issues exacerbate the problem, as GDS and NDC don’t always integrate perfectly. This lack of integration leads to inconsistencies and gaps in the information available to agents and travel management companies (TMCs), hindering their ability to offer a unified and efficient booking experience. The need to navigate multiple platforms and check the accuracy of data, makes an already intricate task of information retrieval more complex.

In addition, the evolving nature of NDC content poses a challenge for travel bookers because of its dynamic nature. Airlines frequently update and modify their offerings through NDC channels, necessitating constant monitoring and adaptation to stay informed about the latest options and pricing. This volatility makes it challenging for bookers to maintain real-time accuracy in the information they provide to clients.

Another notable problem is the varying levels of adoption of NDC among airlines. While some carriers have fully embraced NDC, others may only offer a limited selection of content through traditional GDS channels. This inconsistency forces travel bookers to navigate a patchwork of distribution methods, affecting their ability to find comprehensive information for clients and potentially limiting the range of choices available.

The industry knows it needs to do better but at the moment it’s a frustrating time for agents and bookers trying to provide their clients with the best service.

At Journey Mentor we recognised the shortfalls of the present eco-system and decided to simplify the process. Our range of tools, including Trip Mentor, integrate both GDS and globally available NDC content, alongside local content, in a unified platform, speedily and seamlessly offering the best of all worlds. We believe it’s a vast improvement on what’s available.