Adaptive Use of ICT in Response to Disintermediation

Abstract

Traditionally, the Australian travel agency sector has operated as the premium intermediary in a relatively simple distribution chain that can be depicted as follows: In such a system, it is estimated that travel agents have traditionally handled over 85% of consumer transactions (Wilde & Rosen, 2000). The advance of online technologies and ICT-based distribution systems has changed the dominant role of travel agents in the distribution and supply of travel products. This has impacted on their relevance, returns, and individual financial viability.