Media Release
Webjet Partners with Microsoft To Build A New ".NET Connected" Online Booking Experience
27th February 2003
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - February 27, 2003 - In one of the company's largest technology deals ever, Webjet, an online travel company has today announced its decision to partner with Microsoft to develop a next-generation travel services platform.
The new system, referred to as the Travel Services Aggregator (TSA) is due to launch in early 2004 and will be delivered through the use of Microsoft's Visual Studio.NET 2003, SQL Server and Windows Server 2003, which will integrate the systems of Webjet's entire range of suppliers including airlines, hotels and car hire companies.
With Microsoft .NET technology, the TSA will enable Webjet customers to book travel services sourced dynamically from a variety of suppliers as part of a single travel purchase. This will give customers greater control over their travel plans, allowing them to obtain the best possible deals from a range of suppliers. The customers become their own wholesaler and holiday packager.
According to David Clarke, Managing Director of Webjet, the company chose to work with Microsoft on this project because of the superior quality of Microsoft's development tools and the speed at which application development could be completed.
"We required a quality and trustworthy solution which could be delivered in a very short time frame. We were also blown away by the level of commitment received from Microsoft in securing this deal. The attention we received from the team made us feel like we were the only customer they had," he said.
By deploying Microsoft's .NET technology, Webjet will be able to operate in a more productive environment, increasing cost-effectiveness and working faster. The new system will also be able to adapt to technological advances well into the future.
Webjet was also involved in discussions with major travel technology companies in both Australia and the U.S, who supported their decision to go with Microsoft .NET technology. Since staff were skilled in both Java and .NET, the decision to go with Microsoft was well received.
Frank Arrigo, group manager, developer and platform strategy group at Microsoft is thrilled with Webjet's decision to work with Microsoft on this project. "By employing .NET technology Webjet is putting itself in a position to become a Web Services provider of the future," said Mr Arrigo. "This deal has the potential to roll out globally and enhance the experience of customers around the world."
Full development of the TSA system will take place in Microsoft's Solution Development Centre in Sydney, Australia. James Simpson, principal consultant, services at Microsoft, believes implementing this technology would not have been affordable for Webjet without Microsoft's .NET developer tools. "With the Sydney Solution Development Centre and .NET technology, Microsoft has been able to offer Webjet exactly what is needed to execute its plan, and at a price unachievable with the use of any other technology. "
About Webjet
Online travel company, Webjet, recently announced that Galileo International Inc. will become a substantial shareholder in the company. Webjet offers a complete 'do it yourself' online travel resource with a range of services covering airline, hotel and car hire booking facilities.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and Internet technologies for personal and business computing. The company offers wide range of products and services designed to empower people through great software -- any time, any place and on any device.