The online travel business is very dynamic and continually evolving. Currently there are four criteria to gain visible placement and improve your exposure, however nothing is ever guaranteed. The very complex ‘algorithms’ that determine your placement on the network factor in the following.
1. Provide the best rates in your area. Travellers continue to shop by price and expect the internet to provide comparable value. Competitive rates are the best determinant of success right now on the internet.
2. Get as many bookings as possible. Many travel sites work according to the free market principle: the more bookings you have received, the better you must be. Therefore the more bookings you receive, the better your placement will be on the travel network travel sites.
3. Work with a company like Discover Global Bookings who pay their bills on time! A chief criterion for placement that is used by WorldRes, Expedia and Travelocity is based upon the company’s history of paying commissions on time, therefore giving priority to those who pay their bills.
4. Pay a higher commission. Properties that are willing to pay a 20% commission will gain higher exposure on the Global Booking Network than comparative properties paying a lesser commission.
5. Other factors include estimate sales potential, traveller review ratings, promotional offers (packages) and customer service history.
There is no guarantee for placement for any independent property on the largest consumer travel sites.