Keeping Travel Agents Relevant
You probably remember the song, “Video Killed the Radio Star”. Well, travel 2.0 is trying to kill the travel agent. Review all the new travel websites whether they are social networking sites, hotel review sites, fare comparison sites, dynamic packaging sites, or large OTA sites, all of them have one primary thing in common; they promote self-service travel which effectively renders the travel agent useless. So what can travel agents and smaller travel agencies do to increase their value to the consuming public? One answer is to for agents to find their niche and share their knowledge.... Read more »
Web 2.0 Video - The Machine is U
This is an excellent video about Web 2.0. Very well done and engaging. Read More →
Remembering what is important in life
I was reminded again today what is important in life. I did a phone interview with the North Shore Business Journal and the interviewer asked me what contributed to my success and where I am today. I didn’t have to think about it much because I try to remind myself each and every day what matters. My answers were simple; hardwork, persistence, and my family. My wife and kids are there everyday with a warm hug and loving smile no matter how my day went. Often times it is their unwavering commitment that has kept me positive and focused when times were tough. For those of you who are... Read more »
What is Web 2.0? 24 Minute Introduction
For those of you who are wondering “What is Web 2.0?”. Here is a great little video that explains what web 2.0 is and what it means. The original posting can be found at TechCrunch. I’m recommending this as mandatory for everyone in the office. Sphere: Related Content Read More →
Web Reservations International and Boo.com
In a previous post I mentioned a survey by Boo.com which prompted me to do a little more of my ow research into Boo.com and it’s parent company Web Reservations International. From what I can find through the WebResInt.com website, the company provides reservation services for 50,000 + accommodations providers around the world. Their business model is very interesting because they’re primary goal is to provide a non-gds distribution network for providers of all sizes including the small and independent providers. Needless to say, I am all for this type of network because it serves... Read more »
TripAdvisor launches social networking
I originally posted this item on my personal blog but I think it is more appropriate on this one since it is more travel technology oriented. A recent survey by boo.com found that over 70% of travelers who use the Internet for research depend on peer to peer reviews and recommendations. It is not surprising then that TripAdvisor is following suit and adding a social networking to their site. I would like to have seen them integrate more closely with Facebook or LinkedIn in order to leverage existing technology instead of adding yet another social networking site to the mix, but I understand... Read more »
ENTREPRENEURIAL DEATH TRAPS
This is an excellent article about the key things to watch for when starting a new business. Having fallen into many of these pitfalls during my own entrepreneurial experiences, I can honestly tell you that knowing these things would have helped immensely. This is a must read for anyone thinking of starting a new venture especially a partnership. The “three musketeers” deathtrap is by far the one that rings the most true with me. Mr. Beste’s description of this common and unfortunate circumstance reminded me of my own experience with a three way partnership which also ended... Read more »
TripAdvisor trots out social network
A recent survey by boo.com found that over 70% of travelers who use the Internet for research depend on peer to peer reviews and recommendations. It is not surprising then that TripAdvisor is following suit and adding a social networking to their site. I would like to have seen them integrate more closely with Facebook or LinkedIn in order to leverage existing technology instead of adding another social networking site to the mix, but I understand their motivation. The idea that TripAdvisor is owned by Expedia still leaves a lot of questions about credibility and impartiality. Most travelers,... Read more »
Thousands Petition Feds on Net Neutrality
Over 11,000 people submitted comments to the FCC regarding Net Neutrality. The arguments are for and against regulating ISPs and ultimately the Internet. The issue is that there is a belief, although mostly unfounded, that ISPs slow down or restrict access to competing networks. This reminds me of “Screen Bias” back in the 80’s which was Sabre’s way of pushing competing products down to the bottom of their screens. The situation however is fundamentally different in that there were and still are only a handful of GDS companies whereas there are thousands of ISPs in... Read more »
A Board of Your Own
Where can small companies turn for objective advice? To each other, thanks to peer groups such as The Alternative Board. Great article about how small companies can turn to peer groups to help with decision making and strategic direction. I read Business Week small business on a daily basis and this article in particular struck me as useful. As a small business owner with limited resources to outside advice, a peer group such as this would be a valuable resource. read more | digg story Sphere: Related Content Read More →


