Technology provider Comtec is to launch a “next generation” service allowing travel agents to improve their marketing efforts using customer records.
The company will launch the service, dubbed “Project Combined”, at the Travel Technology show in February next year.
Agents will be able to book packages, dynamic packages and components on one system, as well as manage their customers’ accounts.
The system will enable agents to keep records of every customer that comes into their shop, allowing them to develop e-mail or text messaging marketing strategies.
Comtec chief technical officer Humphrey Sheil said: “We’re getting back to basics with this system. By building up records, agents can develop a rounded view of their customer and use this information in their marketing activities.”
Sheil added: “With so much competition out there, agents are under pressure to innovate. Customers will appreciate agents who can add value by having specialist knowledge and offering personal service.”
The software will help maximise agents’ profits by showing results in order of how much commission they offer. It will be trialled in January 2008 and rolled out from February.
Meanwhile, Comtec laun-ched an add-on to Easy-Sell at World Travel Market to help agents dynamic package more easily. EasySell DP allows agents to build packages by searching low-cost and charter airlines as well as bedbanks.
Sheil said: “Dynamic packaging is growing rapidly and this gives agents a toolkit to make the most of this.”