Role of technology in tourism industry

Tourism yesterday & Today

Transport

Automobile

VS

Carriage

Transport

SteamboatVS

Cruise ship (Oasis class)

Transport

Steam trainVS

Maglev train

Communication

Telegram

VS

SMS

Communication

Fixed line telephone

VS

Blackberry

Distribution channel Buy from travel agent VS Internet X middleman & commission for online booking

Benefits to tourism product provider1. Improve on cost effectiveness

2. Enhance forecasting techniques

3. Consolidate fragmented tourism products

Improve on cost effectiveness facilitate staff scheduling Global Distribution System or web-based

system consolidate a better integration of

departments and functions

better services and reduction of operation costs

Enhance forecasting techniques reliable yield management facilitate routes planning and marketing

programs develop a better understanding of consumer

needs reduce the gap between consumer

expectations and perceived experience obtain accurate and much richer marketing

research data from all transactions through the Internet or GDS

Consolidate fragmented tourism products one-stop shopping Computer Reservations System (CRS) hold destination promotions with airlines via

CRS

Benefits to customers

1. Ease of purchase

2. Speed up purchasing decision

3. Provide more product information

Airline

Travel agency

Ctrip

Ease of purchase

eliminate complicated distribution intermediaries reduce incurred costs such as commissions

automation of routine passenger check-in through the Internet

traditional multilateral tourism distribution channel unilateral channel (one-stop)

Speed up purchasing decision deal directly with service providers’

reservation department access information easily on the Internet

empower consumers to get information on products and services of interest

Provide more product information offer greater choices with massive travel

websites e.g. travel blogs, booking accommodation,

booking holiday

enjoy greater discounts for last-minute, targeted offers and special promotions

http://ratestogo.com/

How a CRS works

Do you know the answer? What is the total number of tourist arrivals in

2009? What does “short-haul market” stand for in Hong

Kong tourism statistics? What is the total tourism spending associated to

inbound tourism in 2009? Among the total visitors, what is the percentage

of overnight visitors? Which organization conducts tourism statistics

survey?

Register at http://partnernet.hktb.com, click research statistics to get the latest information.

How much do you know about Hong Kong tourism?