Understanding the technology in the hotel distribution space can be challenging, so many players and so much technology. A visual representation of this technology can help grasp the landscape and “fit the pieces into the puzzle.”
Part of working on Hotel Demand Management, and its many layers, meant getting a good grasp of the segments, and the technology players. We thought we could help hoteliers, and future hoteliers, by illustrating our efforts with a simple chart.
Here is the first version of The Hotel Distribution Technology Chart. It should to help you by illustrating the various technology providers and how they dovetail one to the next.
How to read this chart:
The chart is divided in three main distribution segments: Online, Travel Agents and Events. These groups represent the majority of the business hotels receive. Within these three segments there are several layers, which go from the hotel (center of the chart) towards the guest (outer rim of the chart).
Each layer of technology connects to the previous layer, and brings the information to the next layer.
A simple example is how the Property Management System (PMS) connects to a Channel Manager, which connects to an OTA, which then connects to a search engine for advertising, and finally to the guest.
A downloadable version of the chart is available by clicking on the chart.
