The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) announced the re-launch of its Technology Center on http://www.ASTAnet.com. The newly re-launched Tech Center, sponsored by Sabre Travel Network, went live on Aug. 9 and features technology information and product solutions for travel agencies and travel agents.

The Technology Center features in-depth articles on important topics for travel agency owners and travel agents; the current article is “Designing Effective Travel Agency Web Sites.” The Technology Center also includes product demonstrations, white papers, agency profiles and basic productivity tips. ASTA members also can sign up for a Technology Interest Group listserv, where real-time communication about technology concerns can take place with a community of travel agents.

“It is critical for agents to embrace the latest technology and use it to their best advantage in their businesses,” said Kathryn W. Sudeikis, CTC, ASTA president and CEO. “We’re grateful to Sabre Travel Network for sponsoring and helping to form the Technology Council that will continually enhance this valuable section on ASTAnet for our travel agent members. The Council will help members learn how to bring the newest technologies to their businesses, and, in turn, make them more profitable.”

“We are pleased to work with ASTA and its technology council members to provide a resource that will serve to educate both small and large agencies about technology solutions,” said Peter Milward, vice president, Global Sales Performance, Sabre Travel Network. “This resource will help travel agents enhance the effectiveness and profitability of their businesses, while providing value, expertise, and personal service to their customers.”

The Tech Council will be showcased during two seminars at the World Travel Congress in Montréal in November. On Monday, Nov. 7, 2005, The Tech Council: Managing the Transaction, with Online Booking seminar will focus on how to get the most out of an agency’s Web site. On Tuesday, Nov. 8, The Tech Council: Cool Technologies—What’s New in the Marketplace and How You Can Use Them will concentrate on new technologies that separate the successful travel agent from the rest of the pack.
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