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GDS

What is a global distribution system or GDS and how does it work?

In the digital era of tourism, technology has become an indispensable tool travel agencies , airlines tourist service providers .

One of the key pieces of this infrastructure is the GDS , or global distribution system , a system that has revolutionized the way travel reserves are managed. In this article, we will explain in detail what a GDS , how it works, what are the main market and why it remains so important in the tourism .

How does the GDS or global tourism distribution system apply?

A GDS or global distribution system is a computer platform that allows travel agents to access real -time information on availability , prices and conditions of tourist services such as flights , hotels , car rental , trains , cruises and vacation packages .

These systems act as technological intermediaries among suppliers (airlines, hotels, vehicle rental companies, etc.) and vendors (travel agencies, tour operators or online platforms), allowing to automate and centralize reserve process of tickets or confirmations .

How does a GDS or global distribution system work in tourism?

A GDS works through an interconnection between the databases of tourism service providers and points of sale (physical or online agencies). This system allows you to consult the availability of a flight , compare prices between different airlines or find a hotel room in seconds.

When a search is introduced (for example, hotels in Malaga), the GDS accesses multiple databases and shows a list of options available. Filters can be applied , compare prices and conditions, and make the reservation directly from the platform. Once made, the reservation is confirmed and the corresponding itinerary or ticket

Basic operation process of a GDS or global distribution system

  • Initial consultation : The travel agent introduces the customer search in the GDS.
  • Real -time search : the GDS consults the databases of multiple suppliers.
  • Comparison and selection : The agent reviews the different price, schedules and services options.
  • Reserve : an option is selected and the reservation is made on behalf of the client.
  • Confirmation and broadcast : The GDS issues confirmation with all the details of the accommodation.

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What are the main GDS or global market distribution system?

As the years have passed, several GDs that dominate the world market. Next, we present the most important :

Amadeus

Amadeus is one of the GDS in Europe. physical travel agencies and digital platforms air reserves , hoteliers , rail and more . In addition, it offers analysis and management tools for agencies and tour operators.

KNOW

Sabre is used a lot in America traditional agencies and large corporations . It offers integrated technological solutions for airlines , hotels and agencies , with a strong approach to automation and user experience.

Galileo (part of Travelport)

Galileo is part of the Travelport and has good penetration in markets such as Latin America , Asia and Africa . Your approach is to offer a flexible reserve and distribution processes , adapting to different types of agencies.

WorldSpan

WorldSpan is specially designed for online agencies ( OTAS ) and is easily integrated with electronic commerce Back-Office systems .

Advantages of using a GDS or global distribution system in the tourism sector

The use of a GDS offers multiple benefits for both travel agents and tourist service providers. Some of the main advantages include:

  • Real -time access : agents can see availability and prices updated instantly.
  • Centralization : It allows managing flights, hotels, cars and other services from a single system.
  • Operational efficiency : Save time on reservation management.
  • Comparison of prices and conditions : Help offer the client the best possible option.
  • Automation of administrative tasks : from reservation to billing, everything can be integrated.
  • Global coverage : allows access to suppliers around the world.

Who uses GDS or global distribution system in tourism?

GDS used mainly in the tourism sector. Such as:

  • Traditional travel agencies : to offer multiple options to your customers and manage complex reservations.
  • Online travel agencies (OTAS) : such as Booking or Edreams, which make up GDs into their platforms to show real -time inventory.
  • Travel Management Companies : These require robust and centralized tools to manage the trips of large companies.
  • Airlines and hotel chains : to distribute their services to a global network of agencies.

GDS or global distribution system and tomorrow in the tourism industry

Although the GDs have been in the market for decades, their evolution has not stopped.

They are still relevant for their ability to connect multiple services on a single platform . Its future is linked to its ability to adapt to the current digital environment , integrate with new technologies personalized and flexible solutions .

Conclusions about GDS or global distribution system

A GDS is much more than a reservation tool: it is the technological core that allows the tourism industry to work efficiently and globalized . Its ability to centralize information, automate processes and connect suppliers with vendors remains fundamental . Although it faces new technological challenges, the GDS continues to be a key in the tourist infrastructure of the present and the future.

While the GDS optimize the reservation and distribution of large -scale tourism services, it is essential that accommodations also have tools that facilitate their daily operation.

Check Check-in Scan offers an intelligent solution to register guests and automatically send their data to local authorities, guaranteeing compliance with current regulations and, most importantly, without complications for the user !

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