OPERA GDS Interface: Global Distribution Software

The OPERA GDS Interface links the hotel’s OPERA database and the global distribution systems (GDSs) and Web booking engines (WBEs) through a third-party switching company. The GDS Interface provides seamless connectivity so that real-time general and detailed availability can be provided by OPERA to the GDSs and the WBEs. The GDSs, which are used primarily by travel agents and tour operators, can then make, change, and cancel bookings with OPERA properties, while the WBEs can allow Internet users to make, change, and cancel their own reservations. Rate updates and restrictions may also be passed from the hotel’s OPERA database to the GDS hosts via the OPERA GDS Interface. The OPERA GDS Interface has been designed to adhere to the very strict time constraints that govern GDS messaging.