FEDERAL COLLEGE OF ANIMAL HEALTH AND PRODUCTION

TECHNOLOGY, APATA, IBADAN

COMPUTER SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
COURSE: COMPUTER AND SOCIETY
TOPIC: IMPACT OF COMPUTER IN TOURISM
SUB-TOPIC: IMPACT OF COMPUTER IN BUSINESS TOURISM

DEFINITION OF COMPUTER IN BUSINESS TOURISM

In the context of business tourism, a computer refers to an electronic device that is extensively utilized for
various purposes related to the tourism industry. It is a programmable machine capable of performing a
wide range of tasks, such as data processing, information storage, communication, and analysis, which are
crucial in the business operations of the tourism sector.
Computers play a vital role in business tourism by enabling efficient and effective management of
information and processes. They facilitate the creation, storage, and retrieval of essential data related to
customer reservations, bookings, financial transactions, and other pertinent details. Computers are used
extensively in various areas of business tourism, including travel agencies, hotels, airlines, tour operators,
and event management companies.
In business tourism, computers are used for several purposes, such as:
Reservation and Booking Management
Information Management
Communication and Correspondence
Marketing and Sales
Financial Management
Overall, computers are essential tools in the business tourism industry, providing the means to streamline
operations, enhance customer service, manage information effectively, and improve overall efficiency
and productivity.
DEFINITION OF BUSINESS TOURISM
Business tourism, also known as corporate or business travel, refers to travel activities undertaken by
individuals or groups for business purposes. It involves travel for meetings, conferences, trade shows,
exhibitions, training programs, corporate events, and other professional engagements. Business tourism
typically includes travel by employees, executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals from various
industries who travel to conduct business-related activities in different locations.
 IMPACT OF COMPUTER IN BUSINESS TOURISM
Computers have had a profound impact on the business tourism industry, revolutionizing various aspects
of operations and enhancing efficiency, productivity, and customer service. Here are some key impacts of
computers in business tourism:
Reservation and Booking Systems: Computers have transformed the way reservations and bookings are
managed in the tourism industry. Online booking platforms and computerized reservation systems allow
customers to book flights, hotels, car rentals, and other travel services conveniently. This automation
streamlines the process, reduces errors, and enables real-time availability updates.
Information Management: Computers enable efficient management of vast amounts of information
relevant to business tourism. Databases and information systems store and organize data on hotels,
airlines, destinations, itineraries, and customer profiles. This information can be easily accessed, updated,
and shared across different departments and stakeholders, facilitating smoother operations.
Communication and Collaboration: Computers facilitate seamless communication among various
stakeholders in the business tourism industry. Emails, instant messaging, and video conferencing enable
quick and efficient correspondence between travel agencies, tour operators, hotels, and clients.
Collaboration tools and shared platforms also support teamwork and coordination among employees,
regardless of their physical locations.
Marketing and Promotion: Computers have revolutionized marketing and promotional activities in
business tourism. Digital marketing strategies, including website development, search engine
optimization, social media marketing, and online advertising, have become essential tools for reaching
potential customers. Computers enable data analysis and customer segmentation, helping businesses
target specific demographics and personalize marketing campaigns.
Financial Management: Computers have simplified financial management processes in business tourism.
Accounting software, online payment systems, and electronic invoicing streamline financial transactions,
automate bookkeeping, and ensure accurate financial records. This automation reduces manual errors and
enhances financial efficiency.
Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Computers facilitate the management of customer
relationships in business tourism. CRM systems store customer data, preferences, and interactions,
allowing businesses to personalize services, provide targeted offers, and deliver excellent customer
experiences. This leads to improved customer satisfaction, loyalty, and repeat business.
Overall, computers have significantly transformed the business tourism industry, making operations more
efficient, customer-centric, and data-driven. The integration of technology has streamlined processes,
enhanced communication, improved marketing efforts, and provided valuable insights for strategic
decision-making, ultimately driving the growth and development of the industry.

ADVANTAGES OF COMPUTER IN BUSINESS TOURISM

The advantages of computers in business tourism are numerous and have had a transformative impact on
the industry. Here are some key advantages:
Efficiency and Productivity: Computers enable automation and streamlining of various processes in
business tourism. Tasks such as booking reservations, managing itineraries, processing payments, and
generating reports can be performed quickly and accurately, resulting in increased efficiency and
productivity. This allows businesses to handle a larger volume of transactions and serve more customers
in less time.
Improved Customer Service: Computers facilitate enhanced customer service in business tourism. Online
booking systems provide customers with convenient and self-service options, allowing them to book
flights, hotels, and other travel services at their own convenience. Computers also enable businesses to
store customer preferences and historical data, enabling personalized recommendations and tailored
experiences. Efficient communication channels via email, messaging, and social media further enhance
customer support and responsiveness.
Accessibility of Information: Computers enable easy access to a vast amount of information in business
tourism. Travel agents, tour operators, and customers can access up-to-date information on flights,
accommodations, destinations, and attractions. This accessibility ensures accurate and timely information
for making informed decisions and providing accurate recommendations to customers.
Global Reach and Online Presence: Computers and the internet have provided business tourism with a
global reach. Through websites, online booking platforms, and digital marketing, businesses can target
customers worldwide and expand their market reach. This global presence allows businesses to tap into
new markets, attract international visitors, and foster international collaborations.
In summary, computers bring numerous advantages to the business tourism industry, including increased
efficiency, improved customer service, global reach, data-driven decision-making, cost savings, and
enhanced flexibility. Embracing computer technology has become essential for businesses to stay
competitive in the rapidly evolving tourism landscape.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the impact of computers in business tourism has been transformative, revolutionizing
various aspects of the industry and shaping its growth and development. The integration of computer
technology has brought about numerous advantages, enhancing efficiency, productivity, customer service,
and decision-making processes. By automating tasks, such as reservation and booking systems, computers
have streamlined operations, reducing manual labor and improving accuracy. The accessibility of
information through databases and online platforms has empowered travel professionals and customers
with real-time updates, enabling informed decision-making and personalized experiences.
REFERRENCE
]Bennett, M.M. (1993) “Information Technology and Travel Agency”. Tourism Management. Vol 14, pp.
259-266.
Buhalis D. (1998) “Information technology”. Chapter twenty in Tourism: Principles and Practice (Eds)
Cooper, Fletcher e.a. Second edition. Longman.
Dahrendorf R. & G. Locksey (1986). Information technology and capitalist development”, Capital &
Class, N. 27, Winter.