Travelport has announced the launch of its new Developer Network.

Designed for third party developers, the network provides members with full access to key software resources, dedicated help and support and an entry in the new Travelport Developer Directory.

Created to facilitate the faster introduction of innovative new applications to its 67,000 travel agency customers worldwide, the new dedicated developer programme will offer extensive commercial, technical and support benefits to approved developer members.

As part of the new programme, Travelport’s industry-leading developer tools will continue to be built on open standards technology, so developers can program in the environment of their choice and build applications that easily integrate with existing Travelport databases and technologies.

Membership includes access to the Travelport Universal API providing access to extensive content and functionality through a single API connection.

In 2012 members will also gain access to the Universal Desktop Software Development Kit (SDK) which creates a wealth of new opportunities for developers.

The extensive configurability can be further enhanced to meet agency needs with custom activities incorporated into workflows, shopping and booking from blended GDS and non-GDS content, and custom pop-up widgets with anytime access.

“Working with independent software developers is not something new for Travelport, but this new dedicated network really emphasises our commitment to work even more closely with the developer community,” said Gillian Gibson, chief marketing officer, Travelport.

“Partnering for innovation perfectly complements and builds on our global product strategy and takes full advantage of the leading technology we have already developed such as the Travelport Universal API and the Travelport Universal Desktop. 

“By working more closely with talented developers and enhancing our already strong relationships, we will be very well placed to offer the best possible applications to our travel agency customers worldwide,” 

Over twenty independent software developers, including Dolphin Dynamics, Rearden Commerce and flextrip, have already signed up to the new network ahead of its official launch at the PhoCusWright conference in Miami (November 15th-17th).