Local products, large savings

While technology is being used to benefit a diverse range of industries, one thing is common to all. In order for technology to be a viable option it has to be financially feasible.

With the majority of management information systems [MIS], emanating from the US and UK, costs have traditionally been exorbitant. With local innovation, as well as pricing schemes catering to the South African travel industry, this rather depressing situation could be set to change.

One example of this is CKNet Internet Services (PTY) Ltd`s (in conjunction with QuickTrav) recently released QuickTrav MIS online product. Along with enabling corporate customers easy access to a variety of travel expenditure reports via the internet, the product also enables travel consultants to ascertain the extent to which they are supporting preferred suppliers, points out Peter Haldemann (Managing Director).

The information, which is accessed via a secure login via the internet, is available to travel agency`s corporate customers 24 hours a day, without having to rely on their travel agent. These reports are also available to Travel Agency Management and staff 24/7.

A typical travel expenditure report is broken down into domestic and international air travel; air tickets, accommodation, car hire, hotel bookings, passport and visa fees, reservation and service fees, and any other costs depending on the agencies accounting setup. New report templates can be written on demand. "This flexibility will ultimately give travel agencies an advantage by enabling them to be more competitive", enthuses Peter.

Accuracy and security are important factors in any online system. Peter explains ; "that as the product extracts data directly from the invoicing system, it is as accurate as the invoices entered into the system. Security is assured through the requirement of a username and password, which is issued by the travel agent and controlled by the travel agent on behalf of their corporate clients."

Rather than carrying a hefty capital outlay cost, CKNet offers the solution on a rental basis. Peter states that "this cost can then be passed onto the client or offered as an additional service for a monthly fee. The cost saving of this solution does however, not stop at its price."

The product further reduces the cost of paper, delivery and print, as well as eradicating the need for a staff member to be dedicated to collating information and preparing travel expenditure reports, says CKNet.

Travel Agencies currently utilizing the system report that they are installing this solution to meet the demand of their corporate clients for detailed analysis of their travel expenditure. This has traditionally been money that has seemed to go unaccounted for.

They point out that one of the advantages of having a management information system includes being able to show their clients the published fare as compared to their own fare, thereby demonstrating the saving the client is receiving.

This goes a long way in educating them as to the ramifications of booking further in advance, and the impact this has on their overall travel expenditure.

For further information regarding this solution, please email sales@cknet.co.za or contact CKNet on (011) 802 0000 or contact your QuickTrav representative. A demonstration can be viewed on www.quicktravmis.co.za.