Information Technology in Tourism

Unit I

Information

Information is data processed for some purpose Information can only be considered to be 'real' Info if it meets certain criteria i.e. It must be communicated to the recipient It must be in a language that is understood It must be in a suitable form It must be relevant for achieving some purpose

Information Technology
This is a general term which relates to the use of computers as an aid to creating and maintaining data, i.e. information. IT is related to all aspects of managing and processing information, especially within a large organization. Computers are critical to manage information, and computer departments within large organizations are often called IT departments. Alternative phrases are IS departments (Information Services) or MIS departments (Management Information Services).

Information Technology, or IT, is the study, design, creation, utilization, support, and management of computer-based information systems, especially software applications and computer hardware. IT is not limited solely to computers though.

Role of IT
1. Capture: Compiling detailed records of activities. 2. Processing: Converting, analyzing, computing and synthesizing all forms of data and information. 3. Generation: Organizing information into a useful form. 4. Storage: Retaining information for further use. 5. Retrieval: Locating and copying stored data or information for further processing or for transmission to another user. 6. Transmission: Distributing information over a

Provides new ways to organize. Relationship b/w customer and supplier Increases convenience of the buyer Brings more efficiency Compile huge amount of data Provides opportunity for fair competition. Increases productivity Provided flexibility. Speed up the process.

Goal Of Information Technology

Goal 1 - Become a business part:

Increase and promote information technology interaction with business. Facilitate process improvement.

Goal 2 - Provide services that satisfy customer information needs:

Build architecture and performance infrastructure. Modernize and integrate defense information infrastructure. Upgrade technology base. Improve information technology management tools.

Goal 3 - Reform information technology management processes to increase efficiency and mission contribution:
Help to achieve business and management goal Institute fundamental information technology management reform efforts. Upgrade information technology work force.

Goal 4 Ensure vital information resources are secure and protected

Build information assurance framework. Build information assurance architecture and support services. Improve acquisition processes and regulations. Protect from cyber crimes.

Goal 5- Increase IT literacy

Provide excellent, universal network and communication access to all. Providing the necessary infrastructure and administrative support, including software and hardware, sound administrative systems and instructional capabilitiy. Extend their knowledge of and skills with IT to meet their particular needs.

Role Of IT in Tourism

Information technology (IT) is a driving force in the current information driven society. Its role in the tourism industry cannot be quantified. Information is very important at every stage in the sales cycle of the tourism product. Information must be able to flow quickly and accurately between the client, intermediaries and each of the tourism suppliers involved in servicing the client's need. The amalgamation of Computer and telecommunications has become an almost universal feature of the tourism industry .

Tourism without IT
Slow Uncertain Risky Lack of spontaneity Lack of information Unsecure Limited Repetitive

With IT

Increase access to information Increased ability to research competitor Greater exposure to potential customers Timely information exchanges Improved competitive position Increased access to vendors and supplier Expanded customer communications prior to arrival A better way to sell services Lowered costs of doing business

IT in Tourism
To Business It facilitate trading partner with

other industries, Competitors provide facilities, distribution of product and services,

Create a new business environment . Help tourism professionals to define the boundaries of the proposed tour site and its surroundings. Efficient delivery of services. Aids in selling thus increasing business. Promotion Centralized information system. Decision Making. Payment to services providers and from customers.

IT in Tourism
To customer Provide information online to consumers in order to plan their trip. Check the type of hotels and services provided. Read reviews Ease of booking tickets and hotels online Help in emergency situation. Keep in contact while in tour. Knowledge about different tourism product. Payment of services

Websites Electronic payment gateways Softwares like Facile & ripple Centralized Database. Online booking portals Mails Video conferencing On line word of mouth CRS GDS

Managing IT functions
IT Manager is responsible and accountable for an ongoing program of IT services . Managing IT functions involve effectively managing the planning, design, selection, implementation, use, and administration of emerging and converging information and communications technologies.

Using technology to design efficient and effective organization. Developing plan for IT in organization. Deciding and implementing new software. Re engineering business process. Adopting special applications. Deciding whether and what to outsource. Deciding on how much to invest.